Early Childhood Education & Care- (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Early Childhood Education & Care (Hons) degree at the Technological University of The Shannon is crafted for aspiring professionals dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of young children from birth to six years. In a field that increasingly values a comprehensive approach to education and care, this undergraduate programme equips you with essential knowledge, practical skills, and ethical values. You will delve into the core principles of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), exploring national frameworks like Síolta and Aistear, alongside developmental psychology and the societal contexts influencing young learners. This course is ideal for those passionate about making a tangible difference in children's lives through informed and responsive practice.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor's degree is studied over four years, offering a dynamic learning experience that balances theoretical study with extensive practical application. You will engage in active learning through lectures, seminars, and workshops, complemented by crucial professional practice placements across diverse ECEC settings. These placements are integral, allowing you to translate academic learning into real-world experience alongside seasoned educators. You will develop skills in areas such as creative pedagogy, inclusive practice, child health and wellbeing, and research methodologies. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a rewarding career as a qualified early childhood educator, ready to lead and innovate within the sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the early childhood education and care sector, covering principles, pedagogy, and developmental psychology. Students will explore creative skills, health and wellbeing, and collaborative practices with families and stakeholders. The curriculum also delves into policy, inclusive practices, literacy, regulatory contexts, and professional development through extensive practice placements. Advanced topics include research methodologies, law, business management, and leadership within the ECEC field.

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 Compulsory
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 Compulsory

5 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

Professional practice placement 3 Compulsory

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

7 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 1

Advanced business management for the ecec sector
Childcare environment design
Supporting children with special educational needs in the ecec setting
Preparation for professional practice placement 2
Applied research project

8 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 2

Pedagogical leadership and professional practice in the ecec sector
Professional practice placement 4

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
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

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

Adult & Continuing EducationEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEmployment & Labor LawFilm & Television ProductionIntellectual Property LawInternational & Human Rights LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawLive Events & ConcertsMedical Research & Clinical TrialsReal Estate & Property Law

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 & Care- (Hons) 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 & Care- (Hons) 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 40 hours during breaks. No work permit is required, but students must be enrolled full-time in a program lasting at least one year.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Qualifications Advisory Board.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency can be demonstrated through tests like Duolingo (overall score of 105), IELTS (overall score of 6.0), or TOEFL (overall score of 60). Ensure your scores meet the specific requirements for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Early Childhood Educator, Childcare Worker, Preschool Teacher, and Educational Coordinator.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Early Childhood Education and Care course covers essential topics like early stimulation and responsive caregiving. It prepares graduates to become reflective educators through practical experience and integration of various educational theories.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course has an intake in September. Ensure you apply before the deadline to secure your place.
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