Early Childhood Education and Care, BA

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

The BA Early Childhood Education and Care at the Technological University of The Shannon is your pathway to becoming a professional Early Childhood Educator, equipped with the essential knowledge, practices, and values for this dynamic field. You will explore the holistic principles of early childhood education, delving into critical areas such as child health and wellbeing, play-based learning, STEAM integration, curriculum development, and leadership. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring educators who are passionate about fostering positive development in young children and are ready to make a significant impact in their careers.

This full-time, on-campus programme, studied over three years, offers a rich blend of theoretical learning and practical application. You will engage with modules grounded in national frameworks like Síolta and Aistear, explore relational pedagogy, and develop creative skills for ECEC settings. A significant component of your learning involves extensive professional practice placements, allowing you to apply your knowledge alongside experienced educators. You will graduate with the confidence and practical experience to excel in roles within early childhood education and care services, contributing to the wellbeing and development of children.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Care program provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of the sector. You will explore relational pedagogy, developmental psychology, and the various contexts of early childhood, alongside creative skills and collaborative approaches with families. The curriculum progresses to cover regulatory frameworks, applied pedagogy, inclusive practices, and professional development through extensive practice placements. Finally, the program delves into research methodologies, legal aspects, business management, and therapeutic interventions relevant to the early childhood environment.

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

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,080.00
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 Limerick City campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesClinical & Medical ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHealthcare Administration & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesNursing & Allied HealthSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

Health Service Executive (HSE)

Technological University Dublin

Technological University of the Shannon

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

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required for full-time students.

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 proficiency, you can use tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, with specific score requirements for each. Be sure to check the minimum scores needed for your chosen test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Early Childhood Educators, Childcare Managers, Curriculum Developers, or School Age Care Coordinators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores essential topics like Child Health and Wellbeing and Leadership and Management. It equips graduates with the core knowledge, practices, and values needed for a career in early childhood education.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Early Childhood Education and Care, BA program has an intake every September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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