Politics - Introduction to Politics
The Certificate in Introduction to Politics introduces the study of politics and is intended as a practical guide to some of the main concepts and vocabulary of political science.
| Award Name | Minor Certificate (Level 8 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Minor |
| Awarding Body | South East Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 8 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Certificate (Level 8 NFQ) | Minor | South East Technological University | Level 8 NFQ |
Duration
2 hour online lecture every second Saturday and 6-hours self-directed learning.
Entry Requirements
All applicants for Part-Time Enrolment must attend for interview as part of the application process. Applications are assessed on a case by case basis in accordance with Carlow College.
Further information
Starts: January 2024
Course fees are €300 and payable by the first night of registration.
Applications for each semester open in July and October each year. Applications for Certificates commencing in January open in late October.
The course provides an introductory guide to important themes and issues related to the study of politics, such as the state, regime types, and political change and behaviour. It also introduces learners to some of the study skills that they need to complete assignments and assessments in the area of politics.
The course will also introduce learners to political and social science research methods. It will provide learners with a foundational knowledge of the theoretical dimensions of conducting research in the field of political and social sciences. A variety of qualitative and quantitative research methods, data sources and methods of data analysis are explored.
The course will cover the following topics:
Thinking about Politics
Foundational Concepts in Politics
Participation and Public Opinion
Power and the Legitimation of Authority
Ideologies and the Political Spectrum
Political Representation and Political Parties
Electoral Systems and Elections: Elections and Appointment of the Houses of the Oireachtas; The Northern Ireland Executive and the European Parliament
The State
Democracy and Democratic Government
Political Institutions of Ireland and the European Union
International Politics
Researching Politics & Methods of Political Analysis (Introduction to Quantitative and Qualitative Research; Methods of Collecting and Analysing Data)
The Certificate in Introduction to Politics is validated by the South East Technological University.
Dr Eoghan Smith
Course Enquiries
T: 059 9153257
E: esmith@carlowcollege.ie
Admissions Office
Admissions Enquiries
T: 059 9153268
E: directentry@carlowcollege.ie