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.

---

Degree Overview:

This two-year program is designed for individuals currently working in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector who seek to advance their careers by obtaining a degree-level qualification. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to assume various leadership roles within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector.

---

Outline:

---

Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics relevant to early childhood education and care, including:

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

---

Structure:

The program is delivered in a blended learning format over one year.

• Online Delivery: Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 7-9pm.
• In-Person Classes: 4 in-person Saturday classes per semester, alternating between TUS Moylish & TUS Thurles campuses (Dates TBC).

---

Schedule:

---

Assessment:

---

Methods:

The assessment strategy for this program incorporates both formative and summative elements, including:

• Written assignments
• Projects
• Portfolios
• Skills demonstration

---

Teaching:

---

Methods:

The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online and in-person instruction.

---

Faculty:

The program is led by Aoife Prendergast, who can be contacted for academic queries.

---

Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes practical application through professional practice placements, allowing students to apply their learning in their existing workplaces.

---

Careers:

---

Potential Career Paths:

The program prepares graduates for a variety of leadership roles within the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, including:

• Early Years Manager
• Room Leader
• Curriculum Developer
• Training and Development Officer

---

Opportunities:

---

Other:

---

Professional Practice Placement:

Professional practice placement is a core requirement of the program and can be completed in the participant's existing place of employment. A copy of the presentation is available.

---

Full programme fee is €4,800. This programme is eligible for 80% funding for eligible applicants under the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) initiative.

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.