UCC Book of Modules, 2012/2013: Sociology

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 360.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 72 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce students to substantive themes and empirical topics in Sociology.

Module Content: This module deals with a range of issues including the history and development of Sociology, contemporary social theory, the social structure of modern society, and the sociology of globalisation and development. Additional themes may be added to reflect the changing concerns of sociology and the evolution of sociological debates about the nature of contemporary societies related to the Sociology of the Environment, Political Sociology, Economic Sociology and the Sociology of Culture

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of sociology outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies
· demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas.

· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena
· Analyse aspects of modern society and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts
· Explain social phenomena and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories
· Critically evaluate and synthesise aspects of contemporary society and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 240 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (in class workshop papers - 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Students who fail the continuous assessment will be required to submit an alternative assignment to the Department.

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 130.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 72 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce students to substantive themes and empirical topics in Sociology.

Module Content: This module deals with a range of issues including the history and development of Sociology, contemporary social theory, the social structure of modern society, and the sociology of globalisation and development Additional themes may be added to reflect the changing concerns of sociology and the evolution of sociological debates about the nature of contemporary societies related to the Sociology of the Environment, Political Sociology, Economic Sociology and the Sociology of Culture.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation. Specifically, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of sociology outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena
· Analyse aspects of modern society and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts
· Explain social phenomena and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories
· Critically evaluate and synthesise aspects of contemporary society and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 240 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (in class workshop papers - 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Students who fail the continuous assessment will be required to submit an alternative assignment to the Department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 200.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Directed Study (25 hours reading); Other (25hrs Lectures/Group Work/Tutorials).

Module Co-ordinator: Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: This course is designed as a discursive and interactive forum to provide a wide variety of learning opportunities and to facilitate the acquisition of a range of competencies and flexible disciplinary skills. Students who attend lectures, workshops and exams and fully engage with the course material should be able to demonstrate their level of achievement in the following competencies and skills.

Module Content: The module will cover the following topics and issues: The nature and scope of sociology as a discipline; The work of Bauman (1990) in Thinking sociologically and Mills (1959) on engaging the sociological imagination; Socialization; Socio-cultural norms and institutional structures; The characteristics of profession, The relevance of sociology for healthcare professionals; professionalisation of nursing and new nursing knowledge; Sociology 'in' healthcare and sociology 'of' healthcare. The social construction of health and illness, definitions of health and Illness; models of healthcare: Biomedical, Alternative, Complementary and Holistic; Clinical, social and cultural Iatrogenesis. Inter-professional and intra-professional relations of power; Classical Sociological theories of stratification, power, inequality and structure; Measuring inequality in healthcare, class, gender, age and ethnicity. Current issues and debates in health; medicalisation of life; medicalised childbirth and reproductive technologies, mental health, aging, disability, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, MRSA, C.diff, multi resistant infections. Health and Healthcare in the 21st Century; Understanding the role of Nursing in the process of transformation and change in healthcare.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline and summarise the concepts of thinking sociologically and engaging the sociological imagination
· List, describe and outline the main ideas and arguments of each of the theorists
· Compare and contrast theoretical perspectives presented
· Critique and evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for analysis of contemporary healthcare issues.
· Apply appropriate theoretical perspectives, sociological concepts and methods to analysis and research in the field of health and healthcare issues / debates.
· Synthesise theoretical ideas and arguments to support and illustrate the students own arguments in the presentation of their work.
· Combine experiential, theoretical and empirical knowledge in syntheses of new understandings of contemporary health related issues and debates.
· Demonstrate, through informed discussion, worksheets, presentations and written work, an ability to assess and evaluate the potential role of sociological insight, theory and research for the process of professionalisation in healthcare.
· Demonstrate the use of reflexive sociological tools in the analysis of everyday health care issues in the presentation of their own work.

Summative assessment of all learning outcomes will reflect the degree to which the student demonstrated the acquisition of the listed competencies and skills. A number of outstanding students will undoubtedly demonstrate learning that goes beyond the competencies and skills listed.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 80 marks; Continuous Assessment 20 marks (In Class Workshop papers).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment. To meet professional requirements attendance at lectures, tutorials, seminars etc. will be monitored by class register.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (20 Lectures/Discussions; 80hrs Coursework/Self-directed Learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide students with a basic introduction to sociology; to explore some key sociological concepts and examine their relevance for Public Health and Health promotion. The module is designed as a discursive and interactive forum providing a wide variety of learning opportunities, facilitating the acquisition of a range of competencies and flexible disciplinary skills. Students who attend lectures and exams and fully engage with the module material should be able to demonstrate their level of achievement across the following learning outcomes.

Module Content: The module will cover the following topics and issues. The nature and scope of sociology as a discipline. The work of Bauman (1990) in Thinking sociologically and Mills (1959) on engaging the sociological imagination. Socialization; Socio-cultural norms and institutional structures. The social construction of health and illness, what is health?; Models of healthcare: Biomedical, alternative, complementary and holistic; Clinical, social and cultural Iatrogenesis; Classical Sociological theories of inequality and stratification; Measuring inequality in healthcare, class, gender, age and ethnicity; Current issues and debates in health, , mental health, aging, disability; Case studies of HIV/AIDS; Hepatitis C Tribunals; Hospital acquired multi-resistant infections, MRSA and C. diff.: Medicalisation of life; Reproductive technologies and medicalised childbirth; Understanding the process of transformation and change in healthcare.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline and summarise the concepts of thinking sociologically and engaging the sociological imagination
· Compare and contrast theoretical perspectives presentedList, describe and outline the main ideas and arguments of each of the theorists presented in the module
· Compare and contrast theoretical perspectives presented
· Critique and evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for analysis of contemporary public health issues.
· Apply appropriate theoretical perspectives, sociological concepts and methods to analysis and research in the field of public health and health Promotion.
· Synthesise theoretical ideas and arguments to support and illustrate the students own arguments in the presentation of their work.
· Combine experiential, theoretical and empirical knowledge in syntheses of new understandings of contemporary health related issues and debates.
· Demonstrate, through informed discussion, presentations and written work, an ability to assess and evaluate the potential role of sociological insight, theory and research for the process of professionalisation in healthcare.
· Summative assessment of all learning outcomes will reflect the degree to which the student demonstrated the acquisition of the listed competencies and skills. A number of students will undoubtedly demonstrate learning that goes beyond the competencies and skills listed.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 1,500 word paper (40 marks); Attendance and participation 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (submit alternative Continuous Assessment, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Max 40.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24hr(s) Other (Lectures, Tutorials); 76hr(s) Other (Self-Directed Learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, School of Nursing & Midwifery; Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce and develop students' knowledge and understanding of broad sociological and cultural perspectives underpinning the provision of health care in terms of the role of the nurse.

Module Content: Sociological perspectives: Raising awareness about social embeddedness and the formation of meaning. Health and illness from the perspective of meaningful social life and the whole person. Cultural expression and creativity; the social and anthropological foundations of meaningful social life (gift relations, play). Thinking sociologically about families, health and healthcare provision. Power and knowledge concerning the provision of care: the problem of social control and the necessity of legitimate authority structures for meaningful social life. Social support system and networks, access, discrimination, disability, social justice, labelling and stigma. Medicalisation of life, medicalisation of childbirth. (12hours)

Nursing: Application of sociology to nursing: Concepts of health. The role of the nurse in advocating for individuals: social, cultural and economic vulnerabilities. Social vulnerability and it's determinant factors linked with determinants of health. (4 hours)
Nursing Health Promotion: Concepts and determinants of health and vulnerable populations. Introduction to health promotion and key topics in public health. Health inequalities, health disadvantage. (5 hours)
Nursing: Cultural Identity: Formation and Change. Intercultural communication. Valuing Commonalities and Diversity. Family, religion, culture, sexuality, gender and the media. The role of social justice as a core nursing value. Socialisation of nurses.(3 hours)

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate an understanding of the relevance of sociological perspectives for the study of health & illness.
· Identify the social conditions that render possible a meaningful and healthy lifestyle.
· Describe how family, religion, culture, sexuality, gender and the media influence our concepts of health & ill health in a changing Ireland and thereby acknowledge ethnic and cultural diversity.
· Explore the meaning of awareness of cultural competence.
· Explain what social vulnerability is and its determinant factors
· Examine the importance and impact of structural factors, cultural and behavioural attitudes and actions that influence health.
· Explore the stratified nature of health and ill health and access to healthcare provision.
· Discuss the socialisation of nurses
· Discuss the role of the nurse in advocating for vulnerable individuals.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 90 marks; Continuous Assessment 10 marks (In-Class workshop papers).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment. Attendance and participation at all timetabled teaching activities.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50% is the pass standard for the College of Medicine and Health.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) (end of year examination).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ day(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 15, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24hr(s) Other (Lecture, Tutorial, Directed Study); 76hr(s) Other (Self-directed Study).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology; Staff, School of Nursing & Midwifery.

Module Objective: To develop students' knowledge and understanding of broad sociological and cultural perspectives underpinning the provision of maternity care and midwifery practice

Module Content: Department of Sociology
Sociological perspectives: Raising awareness about social embeddedness and the formation of meaning.
Health and illness from the perspective of meaningful social life and the whole person. Cultural expression
and creativity; the social and anthropological foundations of meaningful social life (gift relations, play). Thinking sociologically about families, health and health care provision. Power and knowledge concerning the provision of care: the problem of social control and the necessity of legitimate authority structures for meaningful social life. Social support system and networks, access, discrimination, disability, social justice, labelling and stigma. Medicalistion of life, medicalisation of childbirth.

Midwifery
Family in contemporary society. Women in society. Social model of Child birth vs medical model. Pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and parenthood sociological perspective. Domestic and sexual violence. The inter-relationship between the individual, the family and social structures. Concepts and determinants of maternal health in relation to the provision of maternity services.: inequalities, socio-economic, political, ethnic/race, cultural, gender and environmental. Culture aspects in the provision of maternity care for women. The socialisation of midwives.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline broad sociological perspectives for the study of health and ill health in relation to midwifery practice.
· Identify the social conditions that render possible a meaningful and healthy living.
· Describe how family, religion, culture, sexuality, gender and the media influence our concepts of health and illness in a changing Ireland.
· Explain what social vulnerabilities are and their determinant factors.
· Explore the stratified nature of health and ill health in relation to access to healthcare provision.
· Develop cultural competence in relation to pregnancy and childbirth.
· Discuss the socialisation of midwives.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 90 marks; Continuous Assessment 10 marks (in-class workshop papers).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment. Attendance and participation at all the tabled teaching activities.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide an overview of social theory up to the mid-20th Century, with a view to clarifying the principles of theory construction.

Module Content: This module provides a general yet contextually sensitive overview of 19th and early 20th Century social theory from a variety of perspectives. The major theoretical traditions are covered in a way that allows the students to develop an understanding both of leading authors and of basic concepts and theoretical models. While the module seeks to encourage a synthetic grasp of classical and modern social theory as such, the importance of developing a sense of the range of choices to be made in the course of theory construction is stressed throughout.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Give a historical overview of the development of social theory in relation to its changing socio-historical context between the 19th and the early 20th century.
· Outline what social theory is, and identify the major classical directions and the figures representing them.
· Compare and contrast the contributions of at least two major classical social theorists.
· Outline and critically evaluate the contribution of a major classical social theorist.
· Present and analyse the basic classical social theoretical concepts and models.
· Identify the range of options available for the construction of social theory, and demonstrate a justified choice of position.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 3000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 1hr(s) Lectures; Workshops (12hrs Workshops).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide an overview of the various methodological approaches within Sociology and to explore the theoretical, practical and political/ethnical dimensions of the research process.

Module Content: In the first part of the module, lectures will provide an overview of the variety of methodological approaches within Sociology such as positivism, phenomenology, hermeneutics, structuralism, critical, feminism, deconstructivism, constructivism, and realism. In the second part of the module, workshop groups will be introduced to the theoretical, methodological, practical and political/ethnical dimensions of understanding research within sociology.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· To enable students:
· To identify and utilize the major theoretical-methodological paradigms of the discipline of sociology
· To understand basic approaches to conducting social research and the steps involved in doing a research project
· To select and to minimally elaborate a research project idea
· To conduct field research using a variety of different approaches
· To conduct illustrative field work.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (3 x Assignments 30 marks each; Attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) (in lieu of Continuous Assessment) to be taken in Autumn.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 60.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with a number of sociological tools that can be used to understand politics in general, and Irish politics in particular.

Module Content: This module will focus on two major topics: the modern state and political culture.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Students who attend lectures, complete assignments and fully engage with the course material offered in this module are offered a wide range of opportunities to develop new competencies and transferable disciplinary skills. On completion of the course, students should be able to
· List, describe and outline the main ideas and arguments of each of the theorists presented in the course
· Summarise, discuss and compare the theories and case studies presented in the course
· Critically evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for the analysis of politics and government.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 100.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Colin Sumner, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce students to the basic concerns that arise when we study crime and deviance from the perspective of sociology.

Module Content: This module deals with a range of issues including: the quality of information available about crime in Ireland, the problems of explaining crime, the rising importance of corporate crime, the relationship between gender and crime, the problems of policing Irish society, the punishment of criminals and the problems of reducing crime.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Give a clear account of the picture of crime in Ireland that emerges from official accounts and official statistics. They should also be aware of the significant limitations that exist in relation to such statistics.
· Know what it means to say that crime is "socially constructed".
· Be able to compare and contrast the major sociological perspectives, both historical and contemporary, on the causes of crime and of criminal behaviour.
· Know the significance of white collar or corporate crime for the understanding of crime generally.
· Understand the relationship between gender and crime both at the level of crime and the level of victimisation
· Understand the nature and culture of policing in contemporary Ireland and be familiar with the debates around the privatising of the policing function
· Know the various justifications that have been offered for prison as a form of punishment and also be familiar with the literature of the success or otherwise of prison and the range of alternatives that have been proposed to it.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 10.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Agnes Czajka, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Agnes Czajka, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: This module will examine race, ethnicity, migration and nationalism from historical and contemporary perspectives.

Module Content: This module will examine the historical trajectories and contemporary interpretations of the concepts of race, ethnicity and nationhood. Through critical engagement with classical and contemporary theories of race, ethnicity and nationhood the course will examine the role that these play in the construction of social and political identities, and in the development of the modern nation-state and nationalist politics. The module will then proceed to investigate the co-constitutive relationship between interpretations of race, ethnicity and nationhood, and historical and contemporary migration. Emphasis will be placed on the role of migration in the constitution of the modern nation-state, the relationship between migrant and minority politics, and the manner in which contemporary migration continues to be affected by discourses of race, ethnicity and nationhood.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate an understand the central theoretical perspectives on race, ethnicity and nationhood;
· Demonstaret an understand the origins and significance of racial, ethnic and national divisions, and their co-constitutive historical and contemporary relationships;
· Demonstate an understand the relationship between interpretations of race, ethnicity and nationhood and the politics of migration and citizenship.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (2 x 1,500 word assisgnments, 90 marks ; attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the department. Marks for attendance carried forward).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 8, Max 60.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with theory, analysis and empirical research on the sociology of education and the sociology of work. The module is designed as a discursive and interactive forum providing a wide variety of learning opportunities, facilitating the acquisition of a range of competencies and flexible disciplinary skills. Students who attend lectures and exams and fully engage with the module material should be able to demonstrate their level of achievement across the following learning outcomes.

Module Content: The module examines and explores theories of education, learning and work, with particular reference to the overarching theoretical perspectives of a number of key classical and contemporary theorists. In addition several contemporary themes from the following list will be explored. Education and socioeconomic success; The ambiguous link between education and work; Models of relationship between education and work; Education and work in post-industrial society; The impact of demographics, aging, gender, cultural diversity and disability on access to education and work; The hidden curriculum and the labour market; Exploring transformation and change in the Irish educational system; Lifelong learning and the possibility of a learning society; The future of education and its impact on work and societal learning.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline and summarise the main ideas and arguments of each of the theorists presented in the module.
· Compare and contrast theoretical perspectives presented
· Critique and evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for analysis of contemporary issues and debates in the field of education and work
· Apply appropriate theoretical perspectives, sociological concepts and methods to analysis and research in the field of education and work.
· Synthesise theoretical ideas and arguments to support and illustrate the students own arguments in the presentation of their work.
· Combine experiential, theoretical and empirical knowledge in the synthesise of new understandings of contemporary educational and work related issues.
· Demonstrate these reflexive sociological tools through analysis of connections between individual, group and societal learning in the process of micro, meso and macro transformation and change.
· Summative assessment of all learning outcomes will reflect the degree to which the student demonstrated the acquisition of the listed competencies and skills.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 2500 word Essay (40 marks); Attendance and participation 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 50.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology; Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology; Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: A theoretically and methodologically informed sociological
analysis of culture, the role of culture in social life, and various manifestations of culture and cultural products

Module Content: Within the framework of the multilevel development of society from the early modern period to the present, the course focuses on the role culture plays in social life. Culture is understood in the broad sense of covering the intellectual, moral and aesthetic domains. Concrete analyses of contemporarily relevant cultural phenomena (e.g. cultural institutions; knowledge, utopias and ideologies; normative cultural models such as justice and cosmopolitanism; the arts, contemporary museums and aesthetic experience; urban culture; cultural models of nature; expressive forms of life, etc.) are presented, accompanied by clarification of the theoretical and methodological foundations of cultural sociological analysis.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline the concept of culture and locate it within the broader framework of society.
· Compare and contrast different theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of culture.
· Describe and analyse a particular cultural field such as knowledge, art, urban culture, social imaginaries, etc.
· Describe and analyse processes of cultural production, the use of culture, and cultural transformation.
· With special emphasis on culture, compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in social life, and analyse their dynamic interrelation.
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interaction between culture and other factors and forces involved in societal transformation.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary culture and its analysis.
· Design a sociological analysis of culture.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 8, Max 50.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology; Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: An introduction to economic sociology

Module Content: The module will introduce students to key figures and issues in the sub-discipline of economic sociology. It will show, historically, how the relation between economy and society was of great importance to the development of sociology as a discipline and how this relationship has been understood up to the present. Themes in the course will include economies and their societal environments, economic and social rationality, the culture of economic life, economics and the anthropology of the human being, national and global economic analysis, methodologies of economic sociology and economic sociology and societal discourses. The course will be both theoretical and case-oriented, the latter particularly focussing on dimensions of the contemporary economic and social problems to which economic sociology can make a major contribution.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline the central concepts of economic sociology;
· Be familiar with different theoretical and methodological approaches in economic sociology
· Describe and analyse processes in which the economy dynamically interrelates with other social spheres
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interaction between the economy and other factors and forces involved in societal transformation.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary economic developments and their analysis.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (3 x 1000 word essays throughout the year 90 marks; Attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department. The attendance mark is carried forward.).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 60.

Pre-requisite(s): SC1001

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To examine specific aspects of contemporary family life in relation to social research and theory.

Module Content: Families encompass a complex array of relationship networks, including: those living in heterosexual, legally-contracted unions (lifelong and re-constituted) with children; those cohabiting in heterosexual and/or same-sex partnerships without children; lone parents and their children; three generational, extended or sibling families. Families continue to flourish in their diversity. This module examines specific aspects of contemporary family/personal life in relation to social research and theory. Part 1 provides a critical analysis of theoretical approaches to the family, intimacy and personal life (including Carol Smart and David Cheal) and elucidates macro social trends and processes. Part 2 examines specific dimensions of contemporary family life, personal life and intimacy and challenges current debates. The Irish case is considered in each section.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Students who take this course should be able to:
· Examine specific aspects of contemporary family life in relation to research, policy and social theory.
· Critically analyse theoretical approaches to the family
· Identify social trends and processes in the arena of family life
· Evaluate the changes occurring in contemporary family life.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x 3,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide a comprehensive introduction to the sociology of health and illness.

Module Content: Students will be introduced to classical and new social theories in the area of health and illness. The various perspectives and analytical approaches will be developed in connection with a number of substantive areas and topics. These will include the history of the changing concepts of health and illness, medicine as a form of social power and the historical formation of health-care professions and occupations, the biomedical model and medical discourse, sociological critiques of the general model of illness categories and the various shifts that have occurred in the nature and understanding of health and illness. The course will also explore the social causation of health and illness, socio-economic inequalities and gender issues in health. A case study approach will be adopted as a way of introducing students to some of the changing concepts and pressing issues that have entered health discourse and practice, for example the concepts of risk, responsibility and lifestyle.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
· Specifically, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of the sociology of health and illness, outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the field of health and illness.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena in the field of health and illness.
· Analyze aspects of health and illness in modern society and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain social phenomena in the field of health and illness and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize aspects of contemporary society as they pertain to health and illness and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 X 3,000 word essay 90 marks, attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Students must submit alternative assessment, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 70.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To explore key classical and contemporary theorists of urban culture within the broader context of Modernity and post-Modernity.

Module Content: This module looks at characteristic aspects of cultures of cities in terms of their being symptomatic of broader processes of transformation of Modernity. The module begins by showing how the discussion of urban cultural forms is synonymous with the study of modernity in general. The city is first sketched within the terms of classical social theorists Weber, Marx, Durkheim, Freud and others. Next, the formulations of the city by George Simmel and Walter Benjamin are examined, and the methodology for the study of urban culture proffered by their work is considered.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
· Describe the field of the cultures of cities outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the discourse of the cultures of cities.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena in the cultures of cities.
· Analyze aspects of modern city cultures and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain urban cultural phenomena and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize aspects of contemporary urban cultures and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class assignments 80 marks, Attendance 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Students must repeat failed elements of Continuous Assessment, as prescribed by the Department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): SC2001

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide an overview of contemporary social theory with a view to clarifying the principles of theory construction.

Module Content: This module provides a general yet contextually sensitive overview of post-war and especially 20th Century social theory from a variety of points of view. The major theoretical traditions are covered in a way that allows the student to develop an understanding both of leading authors and of basic concepts and theoretical models.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Learning Outcomes
· On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Give a historical overview of the development of social theory in relation to its changing socio-historical context between the mid-20th century and the present.
· Outline what social theory is, and identify the major contemporary directions and the figures representing them.
· Compare and contrast the contributions of at least two major contemporary social theorists.
· Outline and critically evaluate the contribution of a major contemporary social theorist.
· Present and analyse the basic contemporary social theoretical concepts and models.
· Identify the range of options available for the construction of social theory, and demonstrate a justified choice of position.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 1000 word essay (20 Marks ) and 1 x 2000 word essay (30 marks)).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 70.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce the current state of theory in the Sociology of Development and to illustrate how Globalization has transformed understandings of development.

Module Content: The course beings with a historical overview of the concept of globalisation. The second section examines the roots of the development project and the major schools of development theory. The third part of the course reviews various theories of globalisation and explores how these frameworks have altered development theory. The final section of the course examines responses to globalization and reviews case studies illustrating the impact of globalization on development projects.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· List, describe and outline the main ideas and arguments of each of the theories presented in the course;
· Summarize, discuss and compare the theories and case studies presented in the course;
· Critically evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for the analysis of global inequality in economic, political and cultural forms;
· Draw on their experiential knowledge and on theoretical and empirical knowledge in the synthesis of new understandings of contemporary globalization and development issues.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 60.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To understand community as social system, as concept, as ideology and as utopia.At the end of this course students should be able to:

Module Content: To sensitise the student to the many manifestations of community and thereby to encourage greater awareness of developments, in both sociological theory and method, which are more appropriate for handling a phenomenon such as community. The module will also explore not only the nature of community per se, but also will examine its social and political contexts.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of the sociology of community outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify key sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the sociology of community
· Apply sociological theories and concepts to key debates and controversies in Ireland.
· Analyse emerging forms of community using sociological concepts and theories.
· Explain the development of contemporary theories and models of community.
· Critically evaluate the idea of a decline of community in contemporary society.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 10.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr William Brady, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: This module will introduce students to the history and the development of planning as a professional practice.

Module Content: Core principles of modern planning, planning theory, settings and contexts of planning, values and ethics underpinning contemporary planning.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate an understanding of issues in strategic planning
· Describe the main planning process
· Understand the dynamic influence of society, the environment and the economy
· Engage with contemporary dialogues in planning.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks.

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward. Students failing continuous assessment in the Summer must submit alternative Continuous Assessment as prescribed by the Department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop themes and issues in the sociological study of religion in contemporary society, in the framework of commparative civilisational analysis.

Module Content: Understanding religion in modernity; secularisation revisited; Civilisational analysis; religion and the civilising process; the rise of new religious movements; Traditionalism and fundamentalism in contemporary religious movements, varieties of religious experiences.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· present a historical overview of the main approaches in the sociology of religion, especially the historically and anthropologically based ones;
· understand and evaluate the theories of secularisation and their problems;
· gain an understanding of the contexts in which the main world religions emerged and developed;
· gain familiarity with some of the main current issues in the sociology of religion, like fundamentalism, the practice of pilgrimage, and the nature of religious experiences;
· compare the rise and spread of Christianity and Islam.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 100.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Colin Sumner, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce students to the main themes in the sociological study of the mass media.

Module Content: This module deals with the various approaches that have developed in sociology to understand the power of the mass media. These include: the concern with the manipulative power of the media; the role of the media as a source of information in society and the issues of bias, selectivity and framing that this raises; the power and influence of television fiction; the production of the media messages and the power of the media audience to resist, subvert or ignore the messages of the media.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Be familiar with the debate on the media and violence in society and on the significance of using different methodologies to study this question
· Understand how the use of similar types of methodologies has impacted on the study of the relationship between the media and politics
· Appreciate the significance of the change in perspective that is implied by adopting the view that media power lies in its capacity to define social reality and through that to frame our social understanding
· Know what theories have been advanced to explain who controls the view of reality promoted by the media and also the arguments that suggest that traditional media power has been diluted if not displaced by the rise of new media
· Understand the significance of the debates around the role and influence of fictional material in television and the cinema
· Be able to comment on attempts to incorporate media audiences into theories of media power.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (1 x 2,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Agnes Czajka, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Agnes Czajka, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: This module will examine both the field of Middle East studies, and some of the central issues facing contemporary Middle Eastern societies.

Module Content: This module begins with a critical interrogation of the historical and contemporary trajectories of the field of Middle East studies. It challenges hegemonic discourses on Middle Eastern societies, and interrogates the ontological and epistemological assumptions that have structured the field of Middle Eastern studies. The module proceeds to interrogate some of the central issues facing various Middle Eastern societies. It attends to issues such as colonization, urbanization, globalization, social and political conflict, nationalism, secularism, and migration. Through empirical examples drawn from the Middle East, the module thus also provides students with an understanding of some of the most salient social issues facing modern societies.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Develop a critical, interdisciplinary and historically grounded perspective on Middle Eastern societies;
· Understand what is at stake in the construction of the Middle East as a field of study, and critically engage with some of the dominant historical and contemporary assumptions and trajectories of the field;
· Critically evaluate and deconstruct dominant discourses and assumptions about Middle Eastern societies;
· Understand some of the central social issues facing modern societies through empirical examples drawn from Middle Eastern societies.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks ( in-class presentation 25%; attendance/participation 15%; 1 X 2,500 word essay 60%.).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the department. The mark for attendance is carried forward.).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): SC2002

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide a discursive environment enabling students carry out an extensive research project.

Module Content: Taking the form of seminars, this module focuses on a substantive research topic (e.g. the symbolic order of waste, blood and society, Northern Ireland, risk and responsibility, the media, gender and development, feminism, globalisation and the economy, subcultures, etc.). Through the discussion of theory, methodology and research, the participants are initially prepared for individual research on selected aspects of the topic. Subsequently, the emphasis shifts to the discussion of the research in progress and the presentation of research projects and research essays to the group.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Students who liaise with their supervisor and complete their Sociology Research Project are offered a wide range of opportunities to develop new competencies and transferable disciplinary skills.
· On completion of the project students should be able to:
· Describe both the subject matter and aim of the research
· Summarize and discuss the theoretical literature relevant to the substantive subject matter of the project
· Critically evaluate the methodological literature relevant to the project and clearly describe the methods utilized during the course of empirical research
· Synthesize their empirical research and theoretical knowledge in order to develop new understandings of their selected topic.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 10,000 word Research Project 170 marks - submission of a literature review 20 marks- Attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Resubmission of revised Project, as prescribed by the Department.

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): SC2002

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide a discursive environment enabling students carry out an extensive research project.

Module Content: Taking the form of seminars, this module focuses on a substantive research topic (e.g. the symbolic order of waste, blood and society, Northern Ireland, risk and responsibility, the media, gender and development, feminism, globalisation and the economy, subcultures, etc.). Through the discussion of theory, methodology and research, the participants are initially prepared for individual research on selected aspects of the topic. Subsequently, the emphasis shifts to the discussion of the research in progress and the presentation of research projects and research essays to the group.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Students who liaise with their supervisor and complete their Sociology Research Project are offered a wide range of opportunities to develop new competencies and transferable disciplinary skills.
· On completion of the project students should be able to:
· Describe both the subject matter and aim of the research
· Summarize and discuss the theoretical literature relevant to the substantive subject matter of the project
· Critically evaluate the methodological literature relevant to the project and clearly describe the methods utilized during the course of empirical research
· Synthesize their empirical research and theoretical knowledge in order to develop new understandings of their selected topic.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: Continuous Assessment 300 marks (1 x 10,000 word Research Project 255 marks, submission of literature review 30 marks, Attendance 15 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Resubmission of revised Project, as prescribed by the Department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 50.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology; Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: A theoretically and methodologically informed sociological clarification of law in contemporary society.

Module Content: Within the framework of the development of society from the early modern to the currently emerging global period, the module focuses on the place and role of law in the constitution and organization of social life. Law is understood in terms of a system of coercive norms and a process of constitutionalisation that both creates and protects freedoms. However, law also exists as a resource used by actors to challenge conventional readings of democracy, justice and right in a highly contested environment. This series of lectures recounts current sociological thinking on the evolving function and interpretation of law in light of debates on the ethics of contemporary war, humanitarian intervention, international tribunals and human rights violations. Attention is given to major trends and to the partially contradictory pursuit of international justice and peaceful relations amongst a community of sovereign states.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline the concept of law and locate it within the broader framework of society, particularly in relation to morality and politics.
· Compare and contrast different theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of law.
· Describe and analyse processes in which law dynamically interrelates with other (e.g. economic, political and cultural) factors and forces in the constitution and organization of society.
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interaction between law and other factors and forces involved in societal transformation.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary legal developments and their analysis.
· Design a sociological analysis of law in society.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x 3,000 word essay 90 marks; attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Completion of one 3,000 word essay and weekly attendance.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): SC2027 is recommended

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology; Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide students with a thorough grounding in the debates through which the sociology of health and illness have developed and to connect these debates to some of the more pressing issues around health and disease in contemporary society.

Module Content: This course provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary debates in the area of health an illness, situating them in the context of ongoing debates on modernity and reflexivity, risk society, citizenship and globalisation. The course will centrally explore the ethico-political endeavour of modern medicine. This will be critically re-examined in the light of significant social changes and contemporary debates about the role of modern medicine, the expansion of its jurisdiction, the cultural imperative of health, the role of public health and health promotion, and the impact of medical technologies on social and political environments. Health issues in the context of the developing world will also be addressed with respect to competing knowledge claims, sociological theories of development and global inequality. Substantive areas of enquiry will be explored with respect to new directions in the Sociology of Health and Illness and contemporary issues and debates.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
· Specifically, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of the sociology of health and illness, outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the field of health and illness.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena in the field of health and illness.
· Analyze aspects of health and illness in modern society and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain social phenomena in the field of health and illness and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize aspects of contemporary society as they pertain to health and illness and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks ( 2 x 2,500 word essays 45 marks each, attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): SC2027 is recommended

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology; Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide students with a thorough grounding in the debates through which the sociology of health and illness have developed and to connect these debates to some of the more pressing issues around health and disease in contemporary society.

Module Content: This course provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary debates in the area of health and illness, situating them in the context of ongoing debates on modernity and reflexivity, risk society, citizenship and globalisation. The course will centrally explore the ethico-political endeavour of modern medicine. This will be critically re-examined in the light of significant social changes and contemporary debates about the role of modern medicine, the expansion of its jurisdiction, the cultural imperative of health, the role of public health and health promotion, and the impact of medical technologies on social and political environments. Health issues in the context of the developing world will also be addressed with respect to competing knowledge claims, sociological theories of development and global inequality. Substantive areas of enquiry will be explored with respect to new directions in the Sociology of Health and Illness and contemporary issues and debates.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
· Describe the field of the sociology of health and illness, outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the field of health and illness.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena in the field of health and illness.
· Analyze aspects of health and illness in modern society and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain social phenomena in the field of health and illness and formulate particular problems in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize aspects of contemporary society as they pertain to health and illness and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (2 x 2,500 word essays 45 marks each, Attendance 10 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 85.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To trace the social, historical and cultural bases of environmental concern and the development of the institutional framework for environmental protection in Ireland.

Module Content: An examination of the evolution of environmental concern in Ireland in a comparative sociological perspective. This module looks at the formation of voluntary organisations, the construction of a state apparatus for environmental protection and the key changes in environmental concern up to the 1980s. Specific attention will be given to recent developments in social theory regarding the relationship between culture and nature. In particular, the module will explore the basis of environmental controversy in Ireland, in the context of broader changes in attitudes towards nature.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of the Sociology of the Environment, outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify key sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the sociology of the environment
· Apply sociological theories and concepts to key debates and controversies in Ireland and the EU more generally.
· Analyse specific controversies, problems and issues using sociological concepts and theories.
· Explain the social and political institutionalisation of environmental discourse in Ireland.
· Evaluate the social dimensions of contemporary environmental issues.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 67 marks; Continuous Assessment 33 marks (Essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 100.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Fieldwork (2 x 2hr Field-Trips); 10 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Through substantive sociological and social policy analysis the module will focus on historical, contemporary and emerging practices of architecture, housing, consumption and home-making.

Module Content: Historical and contemporary housing models will be examined using sociological and social policy paradigms to explore the relationship between the built environment and social order and reproduction. In particular it will examine social constructs such as: Social architecture, planning and models of the good society; Home ownership, membership and social exclusion; The subject of private household/the object of public housing; The citizen-consumer/the welfare client; the good neighbourhood the dangerous ghetto; Domestic bliss/ delinquency and the broken home; The house as commodity fetish and the consuming practices of home-making; Sustainable living spaces for the future.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the following sociological cognitive competencies: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
· Specifically, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of living spaces, housing & habitat, outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms and define key concepts and ideas in the discourse of living spaces, housing and habitat .
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena in the field of living spaces.
· Analyze aspects of living spaces, housing & habitat and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems pertaining to the field of living spaces, housing & habitat in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize aspects of contemporary living spaces, housing & habitat and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (In class assignments 80 marks, Attendance 20).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass both in-class assignments, participate in the field trips and have a minimum of 75% recorded attendance.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (If a student fails or does not sit the in class assignments, he/she must submit alternative work for assessment as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6 (-).

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To introduce the student to the philosophy of social science.

Module Content: Historical introduction to the different epistemological-methodological traditions in social science, an exploration of both historical and contemporary methodological disputes and problems. Among the traditions to be reviewed are the positivist, pragmatist, interpretative, critical, functionalist, structuralist and feminist directions. Such methodological discussions as the explanation-understanding controversy, the positivist dispute and both the current feminist epistemology and constructivism-realism debates are covered. As regards methodological problems, the module focuses on the development of methodological frameworks through which social theory is made serviceable for social research purposes.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Give a historical overview of the development of the philosophy of social science.
· Outline what the philosophy of social science is, and identify the key concepts of the field.
· Outline the major controversies in the philosophy of social science, and analyse the issue(s) at stake therein.
· Outline and evaluate the contribution of a major philosopher of social science.
· Compare and contrast the basic methodological paradigms in the social sciences.
· Outline and critically evaluate at least two of leading contemporary philosophies of social science.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (2 x 2,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 10, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To examine specific aspects of family, gender and sexualities in relation to social research and theory.

Module Content: Family life, gender relations and sexual orientations have been significant sites of concern, activism and contestation over recent decades. For some, a greater diversity of family forms, changing relations between women and men and an increased tolerance of minority sexual orientations have been signs of socio-cultural enlightenment. For others, the decline of the family, the erosion of traditional gender roles and sexual permissiveness have been at the forefront of a more general unravelling of socio-cultural order. The course places these differing perspectives in a sociological context as the nature and scope of changes to family life, gender relations, intimacy and attitudes to sexuality are examined and theorised from a social and cultural perspective.
This course is taught as a seminar, with student participation incorporated. Students taking this course are expected to read an identified journal article or book excerpt each week.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Students who take this course should be able to:
· Examine specific aspects of family, gender and sexualities in relation to sociological research and social theory.
· Critically analyse theoretical approaches to the family, gender and sexualities
· Identify social trends and processes in the arena of family, gender and sexualities
· Evaluate the changes occurring in the sociology of personal life.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x 3,000 word Essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the department.).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 200.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (25hrs Lectures/Group Work/Tutorials/Seminars).

Module Co-ordinator: Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Ms Bridget McAdam-O'Connell, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Module Objective: This course is designed as a discursive and interactive forum to provide a wide variety of learning opportunities and to facilitate the acquisition of a range of competencies and flexible disciplinary skills. Students who attend lectures, workshops and exams and fully engage with the course material should be able to demonstrate their level of achievement in the following competencies and skills.

Module Content: Current debates: Sociology in Healthcare / Sociology of Healthcare.
Sociological Theory and Nursing practice: are they compatible? Issues of power, knowledge and discourse, the social process of knowledge production, communication and the media. Biomedical, Complementary and Alternative Models of Healthcare. Nursing professionalisation and the production of new nursing knowledge. Iatrogenic illness: the case of `Medicines out of Control. Bureaucracy in healthcare, a barrier to organisational change. Lay-professional and Inter-Professional interaction in Healthcare. Changing models of healthcare, co-cultural and multicultural approaches. Understanding the process of transformation and change in healthcare. A case study approach will be used throughout in an analysis of Current Debates / biomedical solutions and alternatives.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline and summarise the concepts of thinking sociologically and engaging the sociological imagination
· List, describe and outline the main ideas and arguments of each of the theorists presented in the course
· Compare and contrast theoretical perspectives presented
· Critique and evaluate the relevance of sociological concepts, theoretical insights and research data for analysis of contemporary healthcare issues.
· Apply appropriate theoretical perspectives, sociological concepts and methods to analysis and research in the field of health and healthcare issues / debates.
· Synthesise theoretical ideas and arguments to support and illustrate the students own arguments in the presentation of their work.
· Combine experiential, theoretical and empirical knowledge in syntheses of new understandings of contemporary health related issues and debates.
· Demonstrate, through informed discussion, worksheets, presentations and written work, an ability to assess and evaluate the potential role of sociological insight, theory and research for the process of professionalisation in healthcare
· Demonstrate the use of reflexive sociological tools in the analysis of everyday health care issues in the presentation of their own work.
Summative assessment of all learning outcomes will reflect the degree to which the student demonstrated the acquisition of the listed competencies and skills. A number of outstanding students will undoubtedly demonstrate learning that goes beyond the competencies and skills listed.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 80 marks; Continuous Assessment 20 marks (Attendance/Participation at lectures/tutorials/seminars/in-class workshops).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment. To meet professional requirements attendance at lectures, tutorials, seminars etc. will be monitored.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward (The mark for attendance/participation).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus self directed learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Presentation and analysis of issues in the contemporary study of the mass media with the objective of increasing knowledge and developing analytic skills.

Module Content: Mass communication is inextricably linked with political and social power in contemporary society. The aim of this seminar is to explore and explicate the nature of these links. The study of the three central social processes involved in mass communication representation (how the world is presented to us in the media), production (the influences on how these representations are constructed) and consumption (how audiences receive the messages of the media) will form the central focus of this seminar.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed in the sociology of the mass media and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena associated with the central role of the masses media in contemporary society.
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 Seminar Paper (5,000 - 6,000 words)).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus self directed learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Presentation and analysis of issues in contemporary social theory with the aim of increasing theoretical knowledge and refining application skills.

Module Content: This module is devoted to a presentation and analysis of social theory on five distinct levels. First, the development of social theory is reconstructed with an emphasis on its transformation since the 1960s. Second, basic issues in contemporary social theory are explored with reference to modernity and its problems. Third, the implications of the feminist critique of social theory are clarified. Fourth, the normative dimension of social theory is linked to social learning. Finally, various methods of theorization are explored

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of social theory, outlining its historical development, scope and central problems.
· Distinguish major theoretical paradigms and theories and define key ideas and concepts
· Analyse theories and concepts and relate them to particular fields, phenomena and issues.
· Evaluate issues and debates and criticise theoretical approaches and positions relative to them.
· Formulate a theoretical approach to particular phenomena and hypothesise an explanation for them.
· Analyse the student?s own field of inquiry and outline an appropriate theoretical framework.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x Essay (5,000 - 6,000 words), due in mid January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus self directed learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Presentation and analysis of issues in contemporary sociological methodology with the aim of increasing methodological knowledge, method selection and research design.

Module Content: This module is devoted to a presentation and analysis of sociological methodology on five distinct levels. First, a range of approaches to sociological methodology is outlined. Second, basic issues in contemporary methodologies in and across these approaches are explored. Third, the implications of 'post-methodological' approaches to social research are clarified. Fourth, the implications for research practice of various methodologies are outlined. Finally, the research design cycle from theoretical formulation through methodological and method selection to analysis is outlined.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the field of research methodology, outlining its historical development, scope and central problems.

· Distinguish major methodological paradigms and relate them to theory traditions.

· Situate a methodological approach within the overall context of their dissertations.

· Evaluate issues and debates and criticise methodological approaches and positions relative to them.

· Outline the research design cycle
· Analyse the student?s own field of inquiry and outline an appropriate theoretical and methodological framework for their research.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x Essay (5000 - 6000 words) due in mid-January ).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 40

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 40.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Directed Study.

Module Co-ordinator: Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To provide a discursive environment enabling the student to carry out an extensive disseration

Module Content: At the beginning of term students will be asked to choose an area and indicate a topic for a dissertation. On this basis they will be consulted and assigned to a member of staff who will act as their supervisor.
Students will be expected to meet with their supervisor on a regular basis (either in tutorial or on a one-to-one level) to plan, research and write their module work. Students are advised to discuss their proposals with potential supervisors.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· To undertake a research project and to complete a research dissertation.

Assessment: Total Marks 800: Continuous Assessment 800 marks (Dissertation (20,000 - 25,000 words).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.

Credit Weighting: 45

Teaching Period(s): Teaching/Research Period 3.

No. of Students: Min 12, Max 20.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Individual Supervision).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology; Dr Carmel Halton, Department of Applied Social Studies; Prof Shane Kilcommins, Department of Law, O'Sullivan, Dr Catherine, Department of Law.

Module Objective: To complete a research based dissertation on an issue in criminology and criminal justice

Module Content: At the beginning of term students will be asked to choose an area and indicate a topic for a dissertation. On this basis they consulted with staff members, meet with them on a regular basis to plan, research and write their module work. Students are advised to discuss their proposals with potential supervisors.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· describe both the subject matter and aim of the research
· summarize and discuss the theoretical literature relevant to the substantive subject matter of the project
· critically evaluate the methodological literature relevant to the project and clearly describe the methods utilized during the course of empirical research
· Synthesize their empirical research and theoretical knowledge in order to develop new understandings of their selected topic.

Assessment: Total Marks 900: Continuous Assessment 900 marks (Minor dissertation 20,000 - 25,000 words).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Seminars; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: The refinement of theoretical and methodological competences and skills in a discursive context substantively focusing on the relationship between globalisation and culture

Module Content: Theoretical perspectives within Sociology and Cultural Studies are utilized to explore how cultural changes linked to globalisation have impacted on the relationship between transnational institutions, states, regions, ethnic groups and local communities. A second focus of the course is to examine the role of communication technologies and the mass media in creating new forms of hybridity in a global cultural context.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and analyse the process of globalisation, particularly in terms of its relationship to local, national and global cultures.

· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative within globalisation, and analyse their dynamic interaction.

· Describe and analyse problems and challenges which relate to recent cultural transformations in terms of their relationship to on-going processes of globalisation.

· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces which link globalisation to cultural change.

· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to changes in the global economic, political and cultural context.

· Identify and devise appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis of globalisation and culture

· Design and execute a sociological analysis of globalisation in relation to cultural change in contemporary Irish society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (I x Essay (5,000 - 6,000 words) due in mid January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a comprehensive sociological understanding of the phenomenon of globalisation in the context of comparative historical civilisational analysis.

Module Content: The course provides a guide for understanding the processes that gave rise to the modern global world and still define its dynamics today. It will reconstruct the internal logic of the long-term historical developments of which the modern world is the outcome, situating these processes on the broadest possible horizon in space and time. Emphasis will be placed on the rise and fall of civilisations, focusing on 'dark ages' and 'renascences', the comparative analysis of Western and non-Western civilisations, and the comparative anthropology and mythology of cultures.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies
· Complement the central conceptual tools of comparative historical sociology with perspectives taken over from neighboring areas: especially comparave anthropology, but also comparative mythology, archaeology, literature, and classical studies.
· Identify the major sociological theories and paradigms employed, improve on them using comparative perspective, and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply theories and concepts thus developed, by relating them in particular to problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological and anthropological theories.
· Take a critical distance with respect to standard discussions on the topics and issues covered in the seminar and independently evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (5,000 - 6,000 words) due in mid-January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars (plus self directed study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Linda Connolly, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop an intersectional analysis of formations of gender, race, ethnicity and class in Contemporary Ireland

Module Content: This course theorises social change in the context of contemporary Ireland, in specific social and cultural arenas. Different ways of understanding and theorising the intersectionality of gender, class, race and ethnicity in Irish society will be outlined, in particular. The seminars in this course move beyond the prevailing economic/structural reading of the Celtic Tiger and its aftermath to look in detail at key aspects of 'change' as it has been experienced in the private as well as the public sphere in four substantive areas: family life; gender relations; sexualities/the transformation of intimacy; immigration, racism and cultural diversity. Theoretically, the analysis of contemporary Ireland advanced is embedded in theoretical debates relating to the transnational turn in Sociology as well as intersectionality theory.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate competence in defining, critically assessing, and using sociological concepts.
· The ability to critically analyze a variety of sociological texts.
· The acquisition of a sense of sociological consciousness, an understanding of forces,
ideas, events, movements, persons, and cultural processes.

· An understanding of cross-cultural differences and of the importance of cultural context.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (5000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5000 word essay).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: The aim of the course is to provide students with basic familiarity with the sociological value of the concept of public sphere as a foundational concept for grasping all kinds of societal reflection, discussion and deliberation of a public nature, ranging from the literary to the political.

Module Content: The course will introduce students to the sociology of the public sphere.. The course will familiarize students with the early pivotal contributions of Jurgen Habermas, the ongoing critique of this work, especially that inspired by Negt and Kluge's contribution in the 70's in, amongst others, a feminist direction, Habermas's own later contributions and some comparatively recent work such as that of Emirbayer and Sheller, Mayhew and Hauser. It will also address methodological issues of the analysis of public discourse.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the major theories of the public sphere.

· Describe and analyse processes of the transformation, construction and organization of society by means of communicative practices

· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in communication societies and analyse their dynamic interrelation.

· Describe and analyse problems and challenges following in the wake of societal learning by means of public disocurse and envisage potential solutions to them.

· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces involved in societal learning through public discourse.

· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary society and its analysis.

· Identify, devise and apply appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis.

· Design and execute a sociological analysis of contemporary society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x Essay (5,000 - 6,000 words) due in April).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a sociological understanding and critical interpretation of social pathology and civic health in contemporary society.

Module Content: The module will outline, analyse and critically interpret the pattern of contemporary illnesses, ( e.g. suicide and deliberate self-harm; depression, anxiety and affective disorders; eating disorders, substance abuse; chronic fatigue syndrome, etc) that have a sociological profile, one that transcends the particularity of their symptomology and their discrete etiologies. These diseases are symptoms of cultural pathologies and disorders of the collective esprit de corps of contemporary society manifest at the level of individual patients' bodies. These social pathologies arise from individual and collective experiences of profound and drastic social changes and cultural shifts.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar.
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (5,000 - 6,000 words) due in mid-January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 12, Max 15.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus self directed learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with the key issues that arise when crime is studied from a sociological perspective.

Module Content: This module will focus on issues such as the quality of information available about crime in Ireland, the problems of explaining crime, dealing with the problem of illegal drugs, the issue of corporate crime, the relationship between gender and crime, the problems of policing Irish society, and the problems of reducing crime.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· have a clear understanding of the pattern of crime in Ireland that emerges from official accounts and official statistics
· understand what it means to say that crime is "socially constructed"
· be able to compare and contrast the major sociological perspectives, both historical and contemporary, on the causes of crime and of criminal behaviour
· know the significance of white collar or corporate crime for the understanding of crime generally
· understand the relationship between gender and crime both at the level of crime and the level of victimisation
· understand the nature and culture of policing in contemporary Ireland and be familiar with the debates around the privatising of the policing function
· understand the nature and culture of policing in contemporary Ireland and be familiar with the debates around the privatising of the policing function
· know the various theories and policies that have been advanced to reduce or control the level of crime in society and whether these are successful or not.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: Continuous Assessment 300 marks (1 seminar paper - max. 5,000 - 6,000 words).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment. Attendance at seminars.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (submit alternative essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a sociological understanding and critical interpretation of sustainable development in contemporary society.

Module Content: The module will outline, analyse and critically interpret the evolution of the concept of sustainable development in its normative, symbolic and empirical forms in contemporary society. It will examine the debate North and South on sustainable development and consider the role of social movements after the `death of environmentalism?. The module will critically interpret the importance of social capital and social agency in contemporary debates on sustainable development and analyse the impact of global debates in the Irish context.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar.
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x Seminar paper (5,000 - 6,000 words)).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 30

Teaching Period(s): Teaching/Research Period 3.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Individual Supervision).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To analyse an approved sociological topic.

Module Content: A minor dissertation written under the supervision of a staff member on an approved topic.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Engage in original research in sociology;
· Develop individual research strategies and produce critical bibliographies;
· Identify and utilise the major interpretive and argumentative strategies of sociology;
· Analyse and criticise relevant positions and approaches on an academic level appropriate to postgraduate research;
· Demonstrate ability to write critically, logically and systematically, using proper citation in keeping with standards of postgraduate research;
· Argue for an original position on an advanced level of critical reflection.

Assessment: Total Marks 600: Continuous Assessment 600 marks (3 Copies of typed minor dissertation (max 15,000) to be submitted by the First Friday in October).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Individual Supervision).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To read, understand and review selected literature.

Module Content: A review of literature relevant to a minor dissertation. Each student meets his/her supervisor weekly and submits written reviews of relevant literature. Submission date on or before 30th April.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Collect and report on the most relevant literature in a research area chosen by the student in consultation with a supervisor;
· Identify themes and positions in the literature collected;
· Organise the report according to the themes and positions thus identified;
· Examine the different themes or positions in order to differentiate and contrast them;
· Re-organise and summarise the different reports in one coherent review of the relevant literature;
· Ascertain these literature reviews with regard to a possible minor thesis topic.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (A review essay of max 5,000 words 150 marks; oral presentation 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted; a second 2,000 word essay in lieu of failed oral presentation by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 6 x 4hr(s) Seminars (and Self Directed Study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: This course introduces students to foundational issues in the intersection between Philosophy and Sociology concerning individual and social modes of knowledge, understanding and action.

Module Content: Individual agents have capacities to gain knowledge, deepen their understanding and perform intentional actions. These fundamental features of individuals have been of interest in both disciplines. However, knowledge, understanding and action are shaped by the social institutions, communities and public spheres to which those individuals belong. This proseminar aims to bring together ideas from philosophy of mind, epistemology, philosophy of action, cognitive sociology, sociological theory, and the hermeneutic, interpretive and critical sociological traditions, in order to introduce students to an advanced-level study of this multi-faceted and important area.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe debates about knowledge, understanding, mind and action in philosophy and sociology.
· Locate areas of difference and similarity among the theories considered.
· Sketch the interrelationships knowledge, understanding and action.
· Appraise theories in both philosophy and sociology.
· Assemble a list of criteria that the student thinks should guide a good theory.
· Evaluate the success of a particular theory that aims to solve a given problem.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (max 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Introduction to Sociological and Cross-disciplinary (Politics, Philosophy)Theory of the Public Sphere

Module Content: In the first twelve hours, this module will introduce students to the theory of the public sphere, firstly exploring the early pivotal contribution of Jurgen Habermas, the ongoing critique of this work, amongst others from radical democratical and feminist directions. It will then Habermas's own later contributions and some comparatively recent work such as that of Emirbayer and Sheller, Mayhew and Hauser. It will then, in the second twelve hours, explore the contemporary debate on the post-Westphalian (post-national) standing of the public sphere, exploring the extent to transnational public cultures are being formed out of various debates on globalization, cosmopolitanism and justice, The module will generally examine the above in the light of different epistemological standpoints on the category of public sphere, liberal, republican, deliberative and radical, showing how normative commitments influence research programmes.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the major theories of the public sphere.
· Describe and analyse processes of the transformation, construction and organization of society by means of communicative practices
· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in communication societies and analyse their dynamic interrelation.
· Describe and analyse problems and challenges following in the wake of societal learning by means of public disocurse and envisage potential solutions to them.
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces involved in societal learning through public discourse.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary society and its analysis.
· Identify, devise and apply appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis.
· Design and execute a sociological analysis of contemporary society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars (plus independent studies).

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: A sociological analysis of knowledge and its development in the medium of communication aimed at the cultivation of a reflexive attitude and the refinement of theoretical and methodological competences and skills.

Module Content: Starting from the individual as agent possessing empirical-theoretical, moral-practical and aesthetic-practical knowledge, this module reconstructs the communicatively mediated processes whereby such knowledge becomes abstracted and generalised into epistemic, normative and conative-expressive complexes at both the social and cultural levels which play a diverse yet decisive role in the structuration of all facets of social life. Particular attention is given to the normative development of the individual and society, the role of time consciousness, the cognitive impact of scientific and public debates, social movements as cognitive and normative innovators, and the power effects of complexes of knowledge.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline the concept of knowledge and locate it within the broader framework of society.
· Compare and contrast different theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of knowledge.
· Describe and analyse processes of the production, development, use and transformation of knowledge.
· With special emphasis on knowledge, compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in social life, and analyse their dynamic interrelation.
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interaction between knowledge and other factors and forces involved in societal transformation.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary epistemic culture and its analysis.
· Design a sociological analysis of the role of knowledge in society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Tracey Skillington, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To present a sociological account of the nature of borders and their political, social, cultural and ethical consequences.

Module Content: Even in this era of global expansion, borders remain important forms of societal organization of social practice, identities and affiliations. In more recent years, notable restrictions have been placed on borders due to issues of security, terrorist attack mass migration and disease prevention. To cross borders today (cultural, political, ethnic, religious, and geographical) over and beyond the simple entry to and exit from the political category known as the state, is therefore a complex affair. It is at the extremities of such borders (frontiers) that the limits to democracy and human rights commitments are rigorously tested.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the acquisition of a body of knowledge directly related to the concept of borders;
· Evaluate the relationship between borders, politics, law, and social change;
· Explore linkages between borders, justice, human rights, and social development;
· Identify, devise and apply appropriate theoretical and methodologucal means for a sociological analysis of borders and social justice.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1x 5000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 6hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology; Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop students' understanding of paradigms of social theory and to locate their thesis within those paradigm(s).

Module Content: The aim of this module is to develop students understanding of the relationship of their research to social theory by getting students to think about the relationship of their work to the main paradigms of sociology. Students will be expected to deliver papers on social theory and its relationship to research traditions generally and their own research project in particular.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Situate their thesis within paradigm(s) of social theory.
· Define their thesis (and general research) problematics within paradigm(s) of social theory
· Formulate their thesis's research question(s) in terms of social theory.
· Contextualise all of the above within relevant social theoretical paradigms.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (Seminar paper 5,000 words).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 6hr(s) Workshops.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To facilitate students in finalisation of thesis write up

Module Content: Advanced referencing and citation techniques
Advocacy, argument and evaluation skills
Synthesis, summary and conclusion writing
Drafting, write up and scheduling final thesis

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· be able to synthesis research materials into a coherent writing up framework
· be able to demonstrate advanced referencing and citation techniques
· Show a clear capacity to make an original contribution to the knowledge base of the research topic under investigat.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 X Workshop Presentation).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 6day(s) Workshops.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology; Staff, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To further develop students' understanding of paradigms of social theory and to locate their thesis more clearly within those paradigm(s).

Module Content: The aim of this module is to further develop students understanding of the relationship of their research to social theory by getting students to think about the relationship of their work to the main paradigms of sociology. Students will be expected to write and deliver paper(s) demonstrating an advanced knowledge of social theory, the relationship of social theory to research traditions generally and to their own research project in particular.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Situate their thesis more firmly within paradigm(s) of social theory.
· Define their thesis (and general research) problematics more precisely within paradigm(s) of social theory.
· Formulate more deeply their thesis's research question(s) in terms of social theory.
· Contextualise more thoroughly all of the above within relevant social theoretical paradigms.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (Seminar paper 5,000 words).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 5% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Ciaran McCullagh, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Presentation and analysis of issues in the contemporary study of the mass media with the objective of increasing knowledge and developing analytic skills.

Module Content: Mass communication is inextricably linked with political and social power in contemporary society. The aim of this seminar is to explore and explicate the nature of these links. The study of the three central social processes involved in mass communication representation (how the world is presented to us in the media), production (the influences on how these representations are constructed) and consumption (how audiences receive the messages of the media) will form the central focus of this seminar.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed in the sociology of the mass media and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena associated with the central role of the masses media in contemporary society.
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words)).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Seminars; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Niamh M Hourigan, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: The refinement of theoretical and methodological competences and skills in a discursive context substantively focusing on the relationship between globalisation and culture

Module Content: Theoretical perspectives within Sociology and Cultural Studies are utilized to explore how cultural changes linked to globalisation have impacted on the relationship between transnational institutions, states, regions, ethnic groups and local communities. A second focus of the course is to examine the role of communication technologies and the mass media in creating new forms of hybridity in a global cultural context

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and analyse the process of globalisation, particularly in terms of its relationship to local, national and global cultures.

· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative within globalisation, and analyse their dynamic interaction.

· Describe and analyse problems and challenges which relate to recent cultural transformations in terms of their relationship to on-going processes of globalisation.

· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces which link globalisation to cultural change.

· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to changes in the global economic, political and cultural context.

· Identify and devise appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis of globalisation and culture

· Design and execute a sociological analysis of globalisation in relation to cultural change in contemporary Irish society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x Essay (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in mid-January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Prof Arpad Szakolczai, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a comprehensive sociological understanding of the phenomenon of globalisation in the context of comparative historical civilisational analysis

Module Content: The course provides a guide for understanding the processes that gave rise to the modern global world and still define its dynamics today. It will reconstruct the internal logic of the long-term historical developments of which the modern world is the outcome, situating these processes on the broadest possible horizon in space and time. Emphasis will be placed on the rise and fall of civilisations, focusing on 'dark ages' and 'renascences', the comparative analysis of Western and non-Western civilisations, and the comparative anthropology and mythology of cultures.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies
· Complement the central conceptual tools of comparative historical sociology with perspectives taken over from neighboring areas: especially comparave anthropology, but also comparative mythology, archaeology, literature, and classical studies.
· Identify the major sociological theories and paradigms employed, improve on them using comparative perspective, and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply theories and concepts thus developed, by relating them in particular to problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological and anthropological theories.
· Take a critical distance with respect to standard discussions on the topics and issues covered in the seminar and independently evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in mid-January. Essay length varies for MA and PhD Social Science (GREP) students. For further details see Departmental Handbook.).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Patrick O'Mahony, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: The aim of the course is to provide students with basic familiarity with the sociological value of the concept of public sphere as a foundational concept for grasping all kinds of societal reflection, discussion and deliberation of a public nature, ranging from the literary to the political.

Module Content: The course will introduce students to the sociology of the public sphere.. The course will familiarize students with the early pivotal contributions of Jurgen Habermas, the ongoing critique of this work, especially that inspired by Negt and Kluge?s contribution in the 70?s in, amongst others, a feminist direction, Habermas?s own later contributions and some comparatively recent work such as that of Emirbayer and Sheller, Mayhew and Hauser. It will also address methodological issues of the analysis of public discourse.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the major theories of the public sphere.

· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in communication societies and analyse their dynamic interrelation.

· Describe and analyse problems and challenges following in the wake of societal learning by means of public disocurse and envisage potential solutions to them.

· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces involved in societal learning through public discourse.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary society and its analysis.

· Identify, devise and apply appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis.

· Design and execute a sociological analysis of contemporary society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in April).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s):

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): Masters Degree

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kieran Keohane, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a sociological understanding and critical interpretation of social pathology and civic health in contemporary society.

Module Content: The module will outline, analyse and critically interpret the pattern of contemporary illnesses, ( e.g. suicide and deliberate self-harm; depression, anxiety and affective disorders; eating disorders, substance abuse; chronic fatigue syndrome, etc) that have a sociological profile, one that transcends the particularity of their symptomology and their discrete etiologies. These diseases are symptoms of cultural pathologies and disorders of the collective esprit de corps of contemporary society manifest at the level of individual patients' bodies. These social pathologies arise from individual and collective experiences of profound and drastic social changes and cultural shifts.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation
· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar.
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories.
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in mid-January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module:

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 3, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Seminars ((6 hours)); 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr B.P. Strydom, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: Refinement of theoretical-methodological competences in a discursive context focusing on the role of communication and learning in the constitution of society.

Module Content: The constitution or construction, transformation and organization of society is reconstructed in a theoretically and methodologically informed way in terms of the pragmatics of communication involving the viewpoint of both interaction (informal processes of subject/identity, opinion and will formation) and discourse (processes publicly mediating different or antagonistic perspectives). A cognitive sociological approach is adopted towards these processes. Continuing the tradition of moral and political sociology, examples of relevant issues are critically analysed in concrete contexts such as the currently emerging global or world society.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and analyse processes of the construction, transformation and organization of society.
· Compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in social life, and analyse their dynamic interrelation.
· Describe and analyse problems and challenges following in the wake of societal transformation, and envisage potential solutions to them
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interrelation of different factors and forces involved in societal transformation.
· Identify and devise appropriate theoretical and methodological means for sociological analysis.
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary society and its analysis
· Design and execute a sociological analysis of contemporary society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in mid-January).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 5, Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): Masters Degree

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 4 x 1day(s) Workshops; 1 x 1day(s) Workshops (student symposium).

Module Co-ordinator: Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Lecturer(s): Mr Gerard Mullally, Department of Sociology.

Module Objective: To develop a sociological understanding and critical interpretation of sustainable development in contemporary society.

Module Content: The module will outline, analyse and critically interpret the evolution of the concept of sustainable development in its normative, symbolic and empirical forms in contemporary society. It will examine the debate North and South on sustainable development and consider the role of social movements after the `death of environmentalism?. The module will critically interpret the importance of social capital and social agency in contemporary debates on sustainable development and analyse the impact of global debates in the Irish context.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· demonstrate the following cognitive competencies with respect to the materials covered: Knowledge; Comprehension; Application; Analysis; Synthesis; Evaluation.
Specifically, students should be able to:

· Describe the field of inquiry outlining its historical development, scope and methodologies.
· Identify major sociological theories and paradigms employed and define key concepts and ideas.
· Apply sociological theories and concepts and relate them to particular problems, issues and phenomena addressed in the seminar
· Analyze aspects of the seminar?s field of inquiry and illustrate them in terms of sociological theories and concepts.
· Explain phenomena and formulate particular problems covered by the seminar in terms of general sociological theories
· Criticize topics and issues covered in the seminar and evaluate issues and debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x seminar paper (7,000 - 8,000 words) due in April).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment. Seminar attendance and paper.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.


		Book of Modules 2012/2013
		Sociology

Book of Modules 2012/2013

Sociology