Learn more about the Certificate in Social Protection Studies delivered by NCI in collaboration with the Department of Social Protection.

Certificate in Social Protection Studies run by NCI in collaboration with Department of Employment Affairs & Social Protection Certificate in Social Protection Studies Overview at NCI

Course Overview

Description: Certificate in Social Protection Studies

Duration: 9 Days (1 day per week)

NFQ Level: Level 6

Award: 15 Credits SPA

Course Description

The Certificate in Social Protection Studies is a foundation programme and a key element of DSP staff induction and development. 

The programme provides an overarching introduction to the core tenets of Social Protection to motivated students from diverse operational/policy/corporate areas across all grades. The Certificate in Social Protection Studies harnesses a collective depth of knowledge. experience and expertise and encourages participants to explore and share their expertise and queries with class. 

The key themes of the Certificate focus on collaboration as a key component in the achievement of DSP strategic priorities & objectives. The programme helps students focus on excellent customer service & demonstration of DSP core values. 

It also provides students with a solid foundation of understanding the scale and complexity of DSP work within broader public service facilitated & enriched by NCI & DSP expert input.

Course Content

Module Description
Role of Govt Depts Government Depts - roles and interactions with DSP 
Role of Civil Service Wider public service – roles & interactions with DSP
Role of the EU History / Legal Foundations, evolution of the EU
Impact of EU in Ireland Journey through the major impacts of EU membership on Irish life
Policy Cycles/ Evaluation Policy Cycles & how policy is evaluated
Comparative Welfare Models Comparison of e.g. American, Japanese and European models, EU models V IRL models
National Legislation  Framework How is legislation made and where does it come from?
EU Directive/Regulations Purpose/application Country / international level – impacts
Income distribution Income Distribution and key demographics
Academic Writing Exploration of assignment protocol 
Customer service What is good customer service? 
Organisational Theory Organisational Culture
Skills Development Listening skills and use of empathy
Communication and Presentation Skills Face to face, Written, telephone etiquette, online comms
Equality Framework The Employment Equality Acts ,Discrimination: grounds

Course Assessment

You are required to produce a Process Map of your role within the Department of Social Protection and how it links to the wider Department - 40% 

Narrative : In the Accompanying text you should describe the Process Map - 60% 

1500 words. 

PLUS Group presentation or role play. (80%) Individual reflection. (20%)

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this programme will be able to:

  • Describe the framework of Government and public administration in Ireland . Show an appreciation of the complexity and dynamism of the governance and accountability that apply to civil servants in Ireland 
  • Describe the DSP mission, values, performance standards and legislative obligations. Differentiate between the various approaches to social welfare and policies 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the roles played by the European Union and key bodies in Irish Government. Identify and understand the legislation and principles underpinning the Irish legislative framework 
  • Explain the impact that the schemes and services offered by the DSP have on poverty alleviation and redistribution 
  • Contextualise the values & behaviours of client-centred service delivery and demonstrate the role of excellent customer service in delivering social protection services best practice
How to Apply
If you are interested in learning more about this programme or wish to apply, please contact Nicola Horgan, Programme Director, for further information.
Contact Programme Director