Program Overview

Program Information

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 7, 180 ECTS) is a two-year program designed for staff working in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector who aim to advance their careers by achieving a degree-level qualification. The program equips students with knowledge, skills, and competencies required to fulfill leadership roles within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must hold a QQI Level 6 (or equivalent) qualification recognized by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) as meeting the criteria for 'ECCE Room Leader (Standard Capitation)'.
• Applicants must currently work in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector and continue to do so for the duration of the course.
• A letter of verification from the employer stating the required 400 hours of professional practice in Year 1 & 2 is necessary.

Application Process

• Applications will be assessed on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those meeting the minimum entry requirements.
• For recognized prior learning (RPL) assessments, applicants should select "YES" on the online application form.

Course Content

Topics

• Professional Practice Education Placement (1)
• Learning through Drama and Storytelling
• Transitions in Early Years
• Health, Nutrition & Wellbeing
• STEAM in ECE
• School Age Provision
• Creating Inclusive Environments
• Professional Practice Placement (2)
• Teaching and Learning through Play
• Supporting Children with Additional Learning Needs
• Positive Behaviour Strategies
• The Reflective Educator

Delivery

• Modules will be delivered over two academic years in a blended learning format.
• Proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.

Assessment

• The assessment strategy includes formative and summative elements, including written assignments, projects, portfolios, skills demonstrations, and examinations.
• Professional practice placement is a core requirement.

Qualification

• Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 7, 180 ECTS)

Fees

• Full program fee is €4,800 (€2,400 per academic year).
• This program qualifies for funding via the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) for the Academic Year. Up to 90% contribution to course fees for participating students.

NSLF Application Process and Timelines

• New application process for NSLF for the academic year 2025/2026 opened on March 12th, 2025.
• Closing date for applications to TUS is Monday, 28th April 2025.
• NSLF application process closes on 1st May 2025 through Pobal.

Rules and Conditions for Academic Year 2025/2026

• Eligibility criteria include working with children in a Tusla-registered Early Learning and Care (ELC) or School Age Childcare (SAC) service.
• Selection of successful applicants is based on the number of graduates in the applicant's service, priority index (Equal Start Index), and role of the applicant in the service.

Additional Information

• Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
• Courses run subject to viable numbers.