Co-operative and Social Enterprise

The Bachelor of Arts in Co-operative and Social Enterprise at University College Cork offers students a unique and comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that underpin co-operative movements and social enterprises worldwide. This innovative programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to develop, manage, and sustain community-focused and socially responsible businesses. Throughout their studies, students explore a range of topics, including social entrepreneurship, cooperative law and governance, sustainable development, community engagement, financial management, and ethical business practices. The programme emphasizes the importance of social value creation and provides students with the analytical tools needed to critically evaluate social enterprise models and their impact on society and the economy.

Students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, combining elements of business, economics, sociology, and law, to foster a deep understanding of how social enterprises operate within diverse communities and markets. The curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, project work, and engagement with local and national social enterprises. This practical orientation ensures graduates are well-prepared to initiate their own ventures or work within existing social enterprise organizations, cooperatives, and non-profit sectors.

The programme aims to develop socially conscious graduates who are committed to ethical practices and innovative solutions to social challenges. It encourages entrepreneurial thinking, collaborative working, and leadership skills necessary for creating positive social impact. Graduates of this course can pursue careers in social enterprise development, community development, cooperative management, policy analysis, and related fields, or continue their studies at postgraduate level in social entrepreneurship, social innovation, or related areas. With a strong emphasis on community involvement and real-world application, the Co-operative and Social Enterprise programme at University College Cork prepares students to become effective changemakers, driving sustainable development and social justice in a complex and dynamic global environment.

The course is divided into two distinct parts. Part one covers five core modules in the following areas:

* * Reinterpreting Co-operative and Social Enterprise
* Entrepreneurial Skills and Development;
* Social and Cooperative Entrepreneurship;
* Co-operative and Social Enterprise;
* Government Education and Marketing for Cooperatives and Social Enterprises



In part two students choose three of the following five modules

* * Innovation and Enterprise in Financial Co-operatives and Mutuals
* Community Co-operatives and Social Enterprises
* Worker Co-operative Strategies
* Co-operative Food Processing and Supply
* Social Enterprises and the Developing World.



and submit a 15,000-30,000 word minor thesis.

Audience

* Dr Olive McCarthy (Course Director)
* Noreen Byrne
* Bridget Carroll
* Dr Olive McCarthy
* Dr Mary OShaughnessy
* Dr Carol Power
* Professor Michael Ward

Program Requirements:

Applicants must hold a minimum of a Level 8 honors degree (such as a bachelor’s degree with honors) in a relevant discipline, including business studies, social sciences, or related fields from an accredited institution. Consideration may also be given to applicants with relevant work experience combined with a comparable academic background, particularly those demonstrating a commitment to social enterprise or cooperative initiatives. Applicants are typically required to submit official academic transcripts, a completed application form, and a personal statement outlining their motivation for pursuing this programme and their relevant experience. References are usually requested from academic or professional referees who can attest to the candidate’s suitability for postgraduate study. English language proficiency is mandatory for non-native speakers, with accepted tests including IELTS (overall score of at least 6.5 with no component below 6.0), TOEFL (minimum score of 90), or equivalent qualifications. International students must also provide evidence of visa status consistent with university policies. Additionally, some programmes may require the submission of a CV or résumé detailing relevant work experience, voluntary activities, or involvement in social enterprise projects. Prior knowledge or experience related to cooperative models, social entrepreneurship, community development, or related fields will be considered an advantage but is not always mandatory. Applicants may also need to attend an interview or provide additional documents upon request. The selection process considers academic achievement, relevant experience, motivation, and potential contribution to the field. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate a clear understanding of social enterprise principles and their commitment to social innovation and community engagement. All applications are subject to review and approval by the admissions committee in accordance with university admission policies.

The Financing studies for the Co-operative and Social Enterprise program at University College Cork encompass a comprehensive approach to funding education, integrating various sources of financial aid to support students throughout their academic journey. Students are encouraged to explore the Irish government-sponsored schemes such as Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI), which offers grants and loans tailored to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, depending on eligibility criteria. Additionally, UCC provides a range of scholarships and bursaries dedicated to students pursuing degrees in social enterprise and related fields, rewarding academic excellence and commitment to community engagement.

Part-time work opportunities, often facilitated via UCC’s Career Services, allow students to earn income while studying, thereby reducing financial burdens and gaining practical experience valuable for their future careers. The university’s strong links with local industries and non-governmental organizations can also open avenues for internships and sponsorships, which sometimes include financial support. For international students, financial assistance may be available through international scholarships, fee waivers, or external funding bodies that support students studying social sciences and entrepreneurship.

Student finance planning is supported by university advisors who guide prospective and current students in navigating complex funding options, understanding loan arrangements, and managing their overall budget. There are also dedicated workshops and resources to help students prepare financially for their studies and post-graduation life. For students from disadvantaged backgrounds or with special circumstances, additional support mechanisms exist, including specific bursaries and access schemes aimed at promoting equity and inclusiveness within the student community. Overall, the financing landscape for this program is designed to be inclusive and supportive, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder talented individuals from pursuing their aspirations in co-operative and social enterprise sectors.

The Bachelor of Arts in Co-operative and Social Enterprise at University College Cork is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices underlying cooperative organizations and social enterprises. The programme aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to develop, manage, and evaluate cooperative models and social enterprise initiatives that address social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as social innovation, sustainability, community development, organizational management, and ethical business practices. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining insights from social sciences, economics, management, and law to prepare graduates for active roles in the cooperative sector and social enterprises across various industries and community settings.

The programme typically includes a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops, and fieldwork, providing students with opportunities to engage with real-world projects and community organizations. Students may also undertake an internship or placement as part of their studies, gaining valuable practical experience and professional networks.

Graduates of the Co-operative and Social Enterprise programme are well-equipped for careers in social enterprise development, cooperative management, community development, policy advising, and sustainability consultancy. They are also prepared for further academic research at postgraduate levels or professional roles that require expertise in social entrepreneurship and ethical business models.

The programme maintains strong links with local community organizations, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, ensuring that students are exposed to current issues and innovative solutions in the fields of cooperative business and social enterprise. With a focus on fostering social responsibility, innovation, and sustainable development, the course aligns with Ireland’s broader objectives of social inclusion and economic resilience.

Admissions criteria typically include the standard entry requirements for undergraduate studies at UCC, with a focus on students demonstrating a keen interest in social justice, community engagement, and enterprise. The programme is suitable for students from diverse backgrounds who are committed to making a positive impact through collaborative and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Co-operative and Social Enterprise at UCC provides a rigorous and inspiring educational experience, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the development of more equitable and sustainable communities through innovative cooperative and social enterprise solutions.