Community and Addiction Studies (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Community and Addiction Studies (Hons) Bachelor's Degree at the Technological University of The Shannon is designed for individuals passionate about driving social change and supporting vulnerable populations. In a landscape where community well-being and addiction services are critical, this course equips you with essential skills to work effectively within the voluntary sector and with state or NGO providers. You will explore foundational theories in sociology, community development, and addiction studies, gaining a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and behavioural factors that influence individuals and communities. This programme is ideal for aspiring professionals committed to social inclusion and empowerment.

This full-time, on-campus programme is studied over four years, providing a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. You will engage with practical modules covering safeguarding, community intervention, case management, and psychosocial interventions, alongside theoretical subjects such as addiction theory and social policy. A significant component of your learning will involve extensive practical placements in years two and three, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and develop crucial competencies. You will graduate with a Bachelor's Degree, prepared for impactful careers in community initiatives, social inclusion projects, and addiction support services, equipped with the practical skills and theoretical understanding to make a tangible difference.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of community development and addiction studies. Students will gain foundational knowledge in sociology, youth work, and community development principles, alongside an understanding of addiction theories and their psychosocial and physiological aspects. The curriculum progresses to applied interventions, case management, program planning, and research methodologies, preparing students for practical roles through placements and project work. Emphasis is placed on developing essential skills in group facilitation, advocacy, leadership, and conflict management within community and voluntary sector contexts.

1 YEAR 1 / SEMESTER 1

Safeguarding in communities
Foundations in addiction theory
Introduction to community development
Introduction to sociology
Introduction to youth work
Personal development – the self and identity

2 YEAR 1 / SEMESTER 2

Models of community work
Substance use and mental health
Applied social policy
Information management
Introduction to groupwork and facilitation skills
Personal development – groups in action: shaping the self

3 YEAR 2 / SEMESTER 1

Applied community intervention
Case management
Contemp. issues in addiction
Physiological processes of addiction
Advanced participation skills
Personal development: advancing the identity of the practitioner.

4 YEAR 2 / SEMESTER 2

Programme work placement

5 YEAR 3 / SEMESTER 1

Community work placement

6 YEAR 3 / SEMESTER 2

Applied research & digital literature
Behavioural processes in addiction
Project management for community groups
Psychosocial interventions
Designing community participation
Personal development – personal to practitioner development.

7 YEAR 4 / SEMESTER 1

Community planning
Interpersonal and group dynamics
Management in the community & voluntary sector
Social policy & addiction
Therapeutic interventions – concepts of treatment.

8 YEAR 4 / SEMESTER 2

Advocacy and engagement
Conflict and crisis management
Current issues in community work
Evidenced based models of intervention
Leadership skills
Research project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,080.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,210.00
Transport USD 562.00 - USD 1,123.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,773.00 - USD 7,438.00

Living cost estimates are based on Limerick City campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesClinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEmployment & Labor LawHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareIntellectual Property LawMental Health & CounselingMuseums & Cultural HeritageSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

GAA

Health Service Executive (HSE)

St. Vincent's University Hospital

Technological University Dublin

Technological University of the Shannon

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

University of Limerick

Why Study Community and Addiction Studies (Hons) at Technological University of The Shannon

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Technological University of The Shannon in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Community and Addiction Studies (Hons) at Technological University of The Shannon

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements such as a Duolingo overall score of 105 or an IELTS score of 6.0. Alternative tests include TOEFL and PTE, each with their specified minimum scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers, including community worker, addiction counselor, social inclusion officer, and project manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course equips students with skills to work in the voluntary sector and engage communities affected by addiction. Key areas of focus include empowerment, inclusion, and collaborative community initiatives.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Community and Addiction Studies course has an intake in September each year, allowing students to start their studies at the beginning of the academic year.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️