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MA/Postgraduate Diploma (Family Support Studies)

College of Arts, Social Sciences & Celtic Studies, School of Political Science and Sociology
Title of Award
Master of Arts
Average Intake
25
Delivery
On Campus
NFQ
Level 9
Award Type
Major
Next Intake
September 2025
Duration
MA: Two years, part-time PDip: One year, part-time
ECTS Weighting
90 | PDip 60

Why Choose This Course?

Employability

Look forward to a career in management, practitioner, policy or research roles in statutory or community sector services.

Unique Course

Founded in 2003, the Family Support programme remains one of the few specialised programmes of its kind in Europe.

Practical Training

It has an applied focus considering the influence of a range of theories, policies, and concepts in practice.

Research

The programme is located in a UNESCO affiliated Child and Family Research Centre, connected to the global network of the UNESCO Chair in Children, Youth and Civic Engagement.

Course Information

Accreditations & Awards

Liam Whyte testimonial

The whole learning experience was very rewarding and beneficial. Not only did it allow me to update my skill set and apply theory to practice in family support, but it also offered me an opportunity to expand my knowledge in this area of expertise. In addition, it enabled me to reflect on my work and learn from my colleagues, which I found very beneficial.

Liam Whyte

Children Act Services Manager, Mayo.

Michael Bravender testimonial

Informed by experts, exploring key concepts and frameworks in an academic environment, with leaders in the field from the UCFRC was a privilege. It served as a reminder that practitioners on the ground and researchers are on the same page with policy makers playing catch up to ideas like practice research cultures, protective support and supportive protection and more. I will carry it's impact forward and hope to explore future avenues for continued engagement and learning opportunities.

Michael Bravender

Becky Kofo Fred Ameh testimonial

The MA in Family Support Studies has been insightful and transformative. The programme expanded my understanding of family dynamics and equipped me with practical tools to support diverse families effectively. The lecturers were knowledgeable and supportive, and the curriculum was relevant and engaging. I feel more confident and ready to make a real difference in my professional practice. Highly recommend this course to anyone passionate about family support.

Becky Kofo Fred Ameh

Marie Moroney testimonial

The course changed things for me. It helped me understand what I was doing and gave me the theory - like why resilience and social support matter.

Marie Moroney

Meet our Employers

Entry Requirements and Fees

Related Courses

Why University of Galway?

World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.

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World University Ranking

Based on the QS World University Rankings

1

Ranked first in Ireland for Sustainable Development

THE World Rankings

TOP
5

5th in the EU for our Commitment to Sustainability

Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings

TOP
2
%

University of Galway is ranked in the Top 2% of Universities Globally

QS World University Rankings

Downloads

Postgraduate Prospectus 2025

Postgraduate Prospectus 2025

PDF (3.2MB)
Undergraduate Prospectus 2025

Undergraduate Prospectus 2025

PDF (12.4MB)

Meet Our Alumni

Course Introduction

Connecting Family Support Theory and Practice  

The Family Support programme is designed to help you deepen your knowledge and strengthen your skills as a professional working in social services. You will explore the Family Support approach to meeting the needs of children, young people, parents and communities. Through research-informed teaching, the programme equips you with a strong foundation to apply Family Support principles across diverse roles, disciplines and sectors. 

The Quad