BA (Hons) in Early Years and Childhood Studies

This was one of the first degree courses of its kind in Ireland and pioneered the development of Early Years and Childhood Studies as a distinct speciality with distinctive careers. This four-year degree will expose you to interdisciplinary perspectives from the Schools of Applied Psychology, Applied Social Studies and Education, with input from Music, Drama and Theatre Studies; Occupational Therapy; and Physical Education and Sport Studies. The curriculum emphasises academic theory, research skills, and professional and reflective practice. It includes a broad range of perspectives on childhood, the child in society, child development, early years care and education, and child health. Supervised work-based placements in diverse childhood-related settings form an integral part of this course. You will undertake a 13-week placement in both Years 2 and 3 of the course and a one-week on-site placement in Year 4. The professional practice placements provide opportunities for you to apply the theories you have learned, and to experience working with children under the guidance of expert practitioners. This course is approved by the Qualifications Advisory Board (Expert reviewers of Level 7 and Level 8 degree programmes for the Early Years and Care Sector) as meeting the requirements of the Professional Award Criteria and Guidelines standards. On successful completion of this course, you will be able to: Identify, explore, and apply skills required in working with children within early years settings. Demonstrate the confidence and competence to work with children and young people. Develop and integrate the skills to plan and implement a research project.

For 2025 entry, full-time degree students must normally have reached 17 years of age by 15th January 2026. Where a candidate below that age seeks to enter UCC, a special application must be made to the President of the University. Applications will be considered from applicants whose qualifications are equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. Applications will be considered on a case by case basis.