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Postgraduate Diploma Programmes

Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science

The Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science is a 2-semester programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse aspects of social science research and its applications. The programme offers a broad range of disciplines within the social sciences, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics, allowing students to explore and analyze various social issues and phenomena. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical research skills, students will develop a critical understanding of social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behavior. They will also gain proficiency in conducting research, analyzing data, and communicating their findings effectively.
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Award
Postgraduate Diploma Programmes
Faculty
Faculty of Management, Social, & Media Sciences
Study Mode
Online / Blended
Duration
2 Semesters

At a Glance

Programme Quick Facts

Award

Postgraduate Diploma Programmes

Duration

2 Semesters

Study Mode

Online / Blended Learning

Faculty

Faculty of Management, Social, & Media Sciences

Programme Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science is a 2-semester programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse aspects of social science research and its applications. The programme offers a broad range of disciplines within the social sciences, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, and economics, allowing students to explore and analyze various social issues and phenomena. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical research skills, students will develop a critical understanding of social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behavior. They will also gain proficiency in conducting research, analyzing data, and communicating their findings effectively.

Programme Objectives

  1. To enhance students’ research skills through rigorous training in research methods, data analysis, and critical thinking, enabling them to undertake independent research projects.
  2. To develop students analytical abilities and critical thinking skills, enabling them to critically evaluate social issues, theories, and policies within a broader socio-political context.
  3. To encourages students to take an interdisciplinary approach to studying social phenomena, providing them with a holistic understanding of the complexities of society and its multiple dimensions.
  4. To expose students to ethical considerations in social science research, ensuring that they conduct their studies responsibly, respecting the rights and well-being of research participants.
  5. To enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge and research skills in practical settings, preparing them for careers in social research, public policy, community development, and social advocacy.

Admission Requirements

Entry Criteria

To be admitted for the programme, candidate must have 5 O’Level credit passes in WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, GCE, or its equivalent that should include English and Mathematics;
i. Higher National Diploma (HND)
ii. Bachelor’s, Masters or Doctorate degree in any field.
iii. NYSC certificate (discharge, exemption or exclusion) for Nigerian candidates.

Admission Notice

No JAMB examination or score is required for the Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science programme at Iconic Open University. Admitted students will only be required to register with JAMB for the regularization of their admission as Open University students.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this programme are prepared for roles including:

Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science is a specialized programme that prepares graduates to understand and analyze complex social, political, and economic issues affecting societies, equipping them with theoretical knowledge and research skills to address contemporary social challenges. This programme will help students to understand and develop solutions to the social, cultural, and policy challenges faced by communities, governments, and organizations, with a focus on social research methods, policy analysis, human behavior, and sustainable development.

Careers in this field include social researcher, policy analyst, community development officer, program coordinator, social welfare officer, research assistant, and advocacy specialist. Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science graduates can seek employment opportunities in various organizations such as government ministries and agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international development agencies, research institutes, think tanks, community-based organizations, educational institutions, and social service departments.

The job prospects for those with a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science are favorable as the demand for professionals with expertise in social research, policy formulation, and community development is ever–growing, particularly in developing contexts where social challenges require evidence-based interventions. With the right qualifications, these professionals can enjoy a rewarding career contributing to social progress and human development. With the right experience, individuals can also move into higher–level positions such as program director, senior policy advisor, head of research, social development manager, or country representative for development organizations.

21st Century Skills
Among the 21st Century skills for the programme are:

  • analytical and critical thinking;
  • research and data literacy;
  • cultural competence and empathy;
  • communication and advocacy;
  • collaboration and teamwork;
  • problem solving; and
  • ethical reasoning and social responsibility.

Programme Fees

Tuition and payment

Iconic University charges modest fees that give learners the chance to pay per semester only. Nigerian candidates seeking admission will pay an application fee of N15,000 and $50 would be paid by international applicants.

Semester Fees:

Semester Fees are charged based on the human development index (HDI) of country of residence.

How your fees are calculated

Fees are categorised into:

01Nigerians living in Nigeria only
N130,000 (payment of practical/practicum/SIWES/project courses or hardcopy course materials is exclusive)
02Anyone living in Very High Development Countries (International Students)
$600 or equivalent
03Anyone living in High Development Countries (International Students)
$500 or equivalent
04Anyone living in Medium Development Countries (International Students)
$400 or equivalent
05Anyone living in Low Development Countries (International Students)
$350 or equivalent
06Anyone living in “other countries” (International Students)
$350 or equivalent

Helpful resources

Click here to see list of countries based on HDIClick here to read International Students’ Policy

Note: The university operates a non-refundable policy on application fee, registration fee and all other fees paid for products and services of the university whether or not students participated in the programmes.

The Iconic Advantage

Why Study at Iconic Open University

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Access course materials, assessments, and academic support through our intelligent learning platform.

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Programmes designed with input from industry leaders to ensure workplace readiness.

Nationwide Study Centres

Exam and study centres across Nigeria for in-person support and assessments.

Ready to apply for Postgraduate Diploma in Social Science?

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