Early Childhood Education & Care (Bachelor of Arts (Hons), L8, 60 ECTS)

Course Overview

The aim of this flexible, blended learning programme is to provide students with the opportunity to enhance and develop their overall professional early years practice. The programme encourages the development of one’s knowledge to lead and manage quality inclusive early years education and care practice. There is an emphasis on the enhancement of play both within the indoor and outdoor learning environments. A specific focus of the programmes includes fostering a comprehensive understanding of partnership working with children, families and communities. Students will be encouraged to critically reflect on their own professional practice throughout the programme.

Entry Requirements

• A Level 7 Ordinary degree in a cognate discipline or equivalent qualification.
• Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) – Assessment: Please review the entry requirements for this programme. If you do not hold these qualifications but would like your application to be assessed under RPL, please select YES on the online application form.
• ENGLISH LANGUAGE: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required.

Module Outline

• Leadership and Change Management
• Advancing Outdoor Learning in Early Years
• Child Family and Community
• The Early Years Professional
• Management and Governance in ECEC
• Transitions in the Early Years
• Therapeutic Play For ECEC
• Problem Based Action research

Delivery

• The proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.
• Modules are to be delivered over one year in a blended learning format.
• Monday & Wednesday evenings, 7-9pm (online) plus 4 in-person Saturday classes per semester alternating between TUS Moylish & TUS Thurles campuses, commencing September 2026. Start date To be confirmed.

Assessment

• The assessment will include a variety of methods these include, written, assignments, portfolios, skills demonstration and a possible exam. A Problem Based Learning Action Research Project will also be part of the programme.

Qualification

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 8, 60 ECTS)

Fees

• €4,800 (€2,400 per academic year) – Indicative course fee for 2026

Application Deadline

• To be confirmed for September 2026 intake.

---

Degree Overview:

The Early Childhood Education & Care (Bachelor of Arts (Hons), L8, 60 ECTS) program is a flexible, blended learning program designed to enhance and develop students' professional early years practice. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to lead and manage quality inclusive early years education and care practice. The program emphasizes the development of play in both indoor and outdoor learning environments and focuses on fostering a comprehensive understanding of partnership working with children, families, and communities. Students are encouraged to critically reflect on their own professional practice throughout the program.

---

Outline:

• Content: The program covers a range of topics related to early childhood education and care, including leadership, change management, outdoor learning, child family and community relationships, the early years professional, management and governance in ECEC, transitions in the early years, therapeutic play for ECEC, and problem-based action research.
• Structure: The program is delivered over one year in a blended learning format.
• Course Schedule: Modules are delivered on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7-9pm (online) plus 4 in-person Saturday classes per semester alternating between TUS Moylish & TUS Thurles campuses (Dates TBC).
• Individual Modules:
• Leadership and Change Management:
This module explores leadership theories and practices in the context of early childhood education and care. It examines how to effectively manage change within early years settings.
• Advancing Outdoor Learning in Early Years: This module focuses on the importance of outdoor learning in early childhood development.
It explores strategies for creating engaging and stimulating outdoor learning environments.
• Child Family and Community: This module examines the complex relationships between children, families, and communities.
It explores how to build strong partnerships and support families in their child's development.
• The Early Years Professional: This module delves into the professional roles and responsibilities of early years educators.
It explores ethical considerations, professional development, and the importance of reflective practice.
• Management and Governance in ECEC: This module covers the principles of management and governance in early childhood education and care settings.
It examines financial management, policy development, and legal frameworks.
• Transitions in the Early Years: This module explores the various transitions that children experience in their early years, such as moving from home to childcare, transitioning to school, and navigating different stages of development.
• Therapeutic Play For ECEC: This module examines the use of play as a therapeutic tool in early childhood education and care.
It explores how play can be used to support children's emotional, social, and cognitive development.
• Problem Based Action Research: This module introduces students to the principles and practices of action research.
It provides students with the opportunity to conduct their own research projects to address real-world problems in early childhood education and care.

---

Assessment:

The assessment for the program includes a variety of methods, including written assignments, portfolios, skills demonstrations, and a possible exam. A Problem Based Learning Action Research Project is also a part of the program.

---

Teaching:

The program is delivered in a blended learning format, combining online and in-person instruction.

---

Other:

The program is offered at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and is delivered on a blended learning format, combining online and in-person instruction. The program is designed for students who are already working in the early years sector and want to enhance their professional practice.

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

---

Overview:

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.

---

Services Offered:

TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Support:

Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.

Campus Life:

Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.

Faculty Areas:

Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Applied Learning & Innovation:

TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.

Strong Industry Ties:

The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Excellent Employment Opportunities:

TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.

Comprehensive Support Services:

TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.

---

Academic Programs:

TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.

Postgraduate:

Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.

Apprenticeships:

Programs in various trades and technical fields.

Flexible & Professional Learning:

Programs designed for working professionals.

---

Other:

TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.