Child, Family & Community StudiesLéann Leanaí, Teaghlach agus Pobal

This programme will be of interest to graduates of early education, social care, psychology, sociology, community studies and related disciplines, as well as professionals in the broad social services delivery area (example, social work, youth work, teaching, community work, early education, family support work).

The overall aim of the Masters is to examine how human capacity can be enhanced across the lifespan in the socio-educational sector. It will provide participants with a critical understanding of concepts and approaches to enabling individuals and groups to realise their potential as human persons and participative communities. The course aims to educate students to high levels of contemporary theoretical awareness in fields central to social services provision and to create an atmosphere of rigorous academic enquiry and writing.

Brochure: View Child, Family and Community Studies course brochure.

Applicants must normally hold a second class honours bachelor degree, higher division (2.1) or higher in the area of social care, early education, social sciences, psychology, sociology, youth and community studies or cognate discipline. In addition, applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS score minimum of 6.5 overall, with nothing less than 6 in each component.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic requirements, but who have significant professional or vocational experience in child, family and community services shall also be considered. In addition to an application form, this latter category of applicants may also be asked to present for interview. The Programme Committee will work to ensure a balance of recent graduates and professionals among the student intake.

Note: Due to the considerable competition for our postgraduate courses satisfying the minimum entry requirement is not a guarantee of a place. Depending on the course of study, applications will be assessed based on your academic grades and may also take into account your work/life experience. Applicants may also be required to attend for interview for specific courses.

Many participants on the MA in Child, Family and Community Studies already have practice experience and use the MA to develop their careers in different directions or to move in to management roles. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of sectors including development and policy work in social care, early childhood education and the voluntary care sector. It is not necessary to have prior professional experience, however, to find the programme beneficial for career development.

Students shall take core modules in:

• Perspective on Child, Family and Community
• Equality, diversity and intercultural practice
• Transitions across the Lifespan
• Introduction to Management Issues in Child, Family and Community Services
• Research Methods and Dissertation

In addition, students shall select two from the following optional modules*

• Interventions in child and adolescent mental health
• Contemporary issues in the early years
• Youth Offending and Youth Justice Perspectives
• Risk, Vulnerability and the protection of children and vulnerable adults
• Perspectives on Ageing
• Intergenerational Practice and Learning
• Masculinities, Care and Equality
• Social entrepreneurship

*subject to numbers and staffing

Part-time students attend college one day per week for four semesters (the first year is usually scheduled on Tuesday evenings, with the second year on Thursday evenings) and submit their dissertation the following semester.

Students who do not wish to pursue the programme to Master level may opt to be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Child, Family and Community Studies after the completion of 60 credits of coursework.

Applications will open in February 2025.

Non-EU Students

Non-EU students, not resident in Ireland, are not eligible to apply for part time programs that are delivered on-campus. Applications for part time courses that require on-campus attendance will not be processed and the application fee will not be refunded. 

Having recently completed my MA in Child, Family and Community Studies, I can honestly say the skills, knowledge, and experiences this course provided has enabled me to become a more confident and successful educator and business owner. Returning to college as a mature student, what truly set this course apart for me was the approachable nature of the lecturers. Their passion for teaching, and genuine interest in each student, created a supportive learning environment where everyone felt valued and encouraged to participate. This was very encouraging and supportive to someone who had been absent from the academic learning experience for many years.
Another positive attribute for me was the interactive nature of each lecture. Rather than passively absorbing information, we were actively engaged in discussions, group activities, and hands-on projects. As such, the skills and knowledge I acquired have not only enhanced my current performance, but have also prepared me for future challenges and opportunities which will certainly arise within my chosen career. I wholeheartedly recommend Technological University Dublin to anyone seeking a rich and fulfilling and thoroughly enjoyable learning experience. I am immensely grateful for the knowledge, skills and memories gained throughout my educational journey.
Belinda Teehan, Owner and Manager (Blossom Nursery School)