Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early Education and Care

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early Education and Care at Atlantic Technological University is designed for aspiring professionals passionate about shaping the futures of young children. You will develop the essential knowledge, skills, and values needed to become an independent and effective educator in early learning and care settings. This undergraduate degree focuses on nurturing creativity, playfulness, and holistic child development, preparing you to meet the diverse needs of infants and young children. You will gain a deep understanding of sociology, pedagogy, and inclusive practices, grounded in the principles of Aistear and Síolta.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, offering a comprehensive blend of theoretical learning and practical experience. You will engage with modules covering child development, curriculum planning, health, safety, and wellbeing, alongside dedicated ECEC practice placements in Years 2 and 3. In your final year, you will undertake a capstone project, applying your learning to real-world challenges. You will graduate with the professional competencies and reflective practice skills required for rewarding careers in early childhood education and care, equipped to advocate for children and families.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Early Education and Care program offers a comprehensive exploration of child development, pedagogy, and policy within early learning environments. Students will delve into sociological perspectives on childhood, nurturing creativity and play, and relational care practices. The curriculum also covers essential areas such as language, literacy, numeracy, health, safety, and inclusive practices, alongside practical application through extensive professional placements. The program culminates in advanced studies of leadership, research, and policy implementation, preparing graduates for impactful roles in the early childhood sector.

1 Semester 1

Childhood 1: Sociology and Childhood Mandatory
Nurturing Creativity and Playfulness Mandatory
Children’s Play and Pedagogy Mandatory
Relational, Nurturing and Caring Pedagogy Mandatory
Inclusive Practice 1: Intercultural Learning Mandatory

2 Semester 2

Early Years Language, Literacy and Numeracy Mandatory
Child Development 1 Mandatory
Quality in Irish ECEC Mandatory
Children’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing Mandatory
Curriculum Planning, Assessment and Documentation 1: Aistear Mandatory
STEAM 1 Mandatory

3 Semester 1

Early Childhood Law Mandatory
Curriculum Planning, Assessment and Documentation 2 Mandatory
Promoting Healthy Nutrition and Physical Activity in ELC Settings Mandatory
Childhood 2: Repositioning Childhoods Mandatory
Child Development 2 Mandatory
STEAM 2 Mandatory

4 Semester 2

ECEC Practice Placement Year 2 Mandatory

5 Semester 1

Professional Leadership and Advocacy for Early Learning and Care Environments Mandatory
Pedagogical Approaches and Practices of Early Childhood Mandatory
Outdoor and Nature-Based Early Childhood Education and Care Mandatory
Inclusive Practice 2: Disability, Policy and Design Mandatory
Social Policy of Early Childhood Mandatory
Child Welfare and Protection Mandatory

6 Semester 2

ECEC Practice Placement Year 3 Mandatory

7 Semester 1

Philosophy and Early Learning and Care Mandatory
Childhood 3: Multiple Childhoods Mandatory
Curriculum and Pedagogy Mandatory
The Emerging Early Childhood Educator Mandatory
Child-Centred Practitioner Research Mandatory

8 Semester 2

Working in Partnership in the Early Learning and Care Sector Mandatory
Professional Management for Early Learning and Care Environments Mandatory
Implementing Early Learning and Care Policy in Practice Mandatory
Supporting Transitions in the Early Years Mandatory
Capstone Project Mandatory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

24% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 10,689.00 USD 14,116.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,116.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,116.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,116.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 53,039.00 USD 56,465.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 461.00 - USD 2,373.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,210.00
Transport USD 562.00 - USD 1,123.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,773.00 - USD 7,438.00

Living cost estimates are based on Sligo Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Why Study Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early Education and Care at Atlantic Technological University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Atlantic Technological University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Atlantic Technological University in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early Education and Care at Atlantic Technological University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed if enrolled full-time.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, students can take Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE tests. Specific minimum scores apply, for example, a Duolingo overall score of 90 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as early childhood educators, childcare managers, special education teachers, daycare supervisors, and educational consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

The overarching aim of this degree is to foster and develop the knowledge, skills, competencies, and values of emerging early-year professionals to be independent and professional educators. The programme aims to meet the initial professional education criteria, forming graduates with the expertise to nurture and enrich infants’ and young children’s lives in early years learning and care settings.

By combining theory with professional practice, this applied degree supports graduates to

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Bachelor of Education (Honours) Early Education and Care program in either January or September. Make sure to apply before the deadlines to secure your spot.
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