Early Childhood Education and Care

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

As a student on the Early Childhood Education and Care undergraduate degree at the Technological University of The Shannon, you will gain the essential knowledge and practical skills to make a significant positive impact on the lives of babies and young children. This programme is designed for individuals passionate about understanding child development, learning, and well-being, preparing you to meet the diverse needs of young children within their family and societal contexts. You will explore foundational principles and practices, drawing on national frameworks like Síolta and Aistear, and engage with developmental psychology, relational pedagogy, and the crucial contexts that shape a child's early years.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor's Degree, studied over three years, offers a dynamic learning experience. You will engage in a blend of theoretical study, practical application through creative skills and health promotion modules, and essential professional practice placements across various early years settings. These placements are integral, allowing you to connect academic learning with real-world experience, working alongside experienced educators. You will develop expertise in inclusive policy, outdoor pedagogy, and collaborative work with parents and stakeholders, graduating with a comprehensive understanding of ECEC social policy and children's rights, ready for a rewarding career.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in early childhood education and care, covering principles, practices, and developmental psychology. Students will explore relational pedagogy, creative skills, and collaborative work with families and stakeholders. The curriculum also addresses health and wellbeing, inclusive practices, and social policy within the sector, culminating in practical placements and an introduction to research and business management.

1 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

Principles and practices of the ecec sector
Developing academic practice and autonomy
Introduction to relational pedagogy in ecec
Early childhood developmental psychology
Contexts of early childhood

2 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

Creative skills for ecec
Promoting positive health and wellbeing in ecec
Working collaboratively with parents and relevant stakeholders in an ecec setting
Outdoor pedagogy
Ecec social policy
Introduction to inclusive policy and practice in the ecec setting

3 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

Making learning visible: multimodal approaches to literacy in ecec
Introduction to the regulatory context for ecec
Personal reflection for practice (prp)
Applied pedagogy & curriculum in ecec
Preparation for practice placement 1
Professional practice placement 1

4 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2

Child health and well-being: food safety and applied nutrition in the ecec setting
Children’s rights and advocacy
Language acquisition
Applied inclusive practice in the ecec setting
Professional practice placement 2

5 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

Professional practice placement 3

6 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2

Introduction to research methodology and practice
Law for the early childhood sector
Therapeutic recreational & creative play interventions in ecec
Teamwork and group dynamics in an ecec setting
Business management & enterprise in ecec

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 47,642.00

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

Living Costs

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 Athlone Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementGaming & Interactive MediaHealthcare Administration & ManagementNursing & Allied HealthSports & AthleticsTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

GAA

Health Service Executive (HSE)

St. Vincent's University Hospital

Technological University Dublin

Technological University of the Shannon

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

University of Limerick

Why Study Early Childhood Education and Care at Technological University of The Shannon

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Technological University of The Shannon 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 Early Childhood Education and Care at Technological University of The Shannon

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during terms and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Qualifications Advisory Board.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, you'll need a Duolingo overall score of 105 or equivalent scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Make sure to check specific section requirements for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Early Years Educator, Childcare Assistant, Playground Supervisor, or Family Support Worker.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on child development and learning processes for ages 0-6. You'll gain hands-on experience through placements and explore the Aistear curriculum and Síolta quality framework.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Early Childhood Education and Care course has an intake in September each year. Be sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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