Course Description

The BA in Early Childhood Practice is a degree level, 180-credit programme jointly delivered over four semesters by both the Faculty of Education at Mary Immaculate College, Limerick and the Department of Social Sciences at the Institute of Technology, Tralee. On successful completion, participants will be conferred with a University of Limerick Level 7 Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Practice. This programme has been designed specifically to upskill staff currently working in the Early Childhood Care and Education sector.

This degree is designed specifically to upskill staff with a Level 6 qualification in early childhood care and education, currently working in early years settings.

The programme will be delivered in a blended format with one third comprising of face-to-face sessions and two thirds being delivered through an online/distance learning format. This allows you  to access notes, presentations, reading, video and audio clips, activities etc at home in your own time. There will be dedicated times each week when you will participate in online discussions and tutorials from home. Classroom time will be blocked over a number of days per month and at weekends to accommodate applicants who are in full-time employment.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have FETAC Level 6 or equivalent and should be working in the Early Childhood Care and Education sector.

You may apply and provide evidence of how your professional experience matches the learning outcomes of the programme. Such applications will be considered on an individual basis and eligibility will be ascertained with reference to the existing programme entry requirements. If you are in this category please contact Deirdre Breatnach on +353 61 204565 or Deirdre.Breatnach@mic.ul.ie

Duration

The programme will run over four semesters. Alternate semesters will be delivered by the Department of Social Sciences at the IT Tralee and the Faculty of Education, MIC, Limerick, commencing in September with IT Tralee.

Modules will comprise independent online study, online tutorials and classroom time. The technology used will be internet based so all you require is a good internet connection and a PC or laptop. You will be provided with support to use the online/blended content.

The total class contact hours per semester will be approximately 50. The group will meet approximately every 3-4 weeks. Contact hours will be blocked into either one evening/one half Saturday or two evenings or one weekend approximately every 3-4 weeks.

The assessment of practical professional practice is part of the programme and this can be achieved through your existing employment and contacts. The placement component will occur during both spring semesters for six hours per week over the course of 12 weeks.

Cost

€1,850 per semester (Fees quoted are for Academic Year 2017/18 and maybe subject to an increase)

Progression Opportunities

Suitably qualified graduates may progress to a Level 8 qualification (BA  in Early Childhood Care and Education).

Download here - BA Early Childhood Practice - Frequently Asked Questions

Lifelong Learning Department

Email: email
Phone: 066 7191701