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BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies from Stranmillis University College; validated by Queen’s University Belfast

Level 6
Part-Time
25/26
EXC60004
Qub logo

Overview

*Applications must be made to Stranmillis directly before 1st March on year of entry.* This is a four year part-time course aimed at those interested in a career in Early Years. The theoretical training establishes and develops the skills necessary to cope with the challenges of supporting, caring for and educating young children in a professional environment. A work based element forms an integral part of the degree and graduates will be highly qualified with a sound, practical and theoretical training. Students must complete a minimum of 8 hours of work placement per week in either a paid or voluntary capacity.

Stranmillis Application Link

The BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Studies is based on the concept of 'Educare'. It aims to both investigate and further advance a multi-professional approach within the Early Years services in Northern Ireland and beyond. This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career as an Early Years Practitioner / Manager.

The modules offered will address broad areas such as: Understanding the Child, The Child in the Learning Context; and the Child in the Family and Community. Specific modules include: Childhood in Society; Children's Health and well-being; Foundations in Social and Developmental Learning; Child Development; Children's Learning Intentions; Early Years Curriculum; Management, Leadership and Professionalism; Research Methods; Partnership With Children and Families; International Perspectives; and Dissertation.

Examples of optional units studied include:

  • Early years intervention;
  • Advanced Social and Developmental Learning;
  • and Advanced Understanding of Diversity and Inclusion
  • Applicants must meet the minimum admission requirements of QUB. English and Maths GCSE at grade C or above are required (Level 2 Communication Skills is acceptable in lieu of GCSE grade C in English Language, however, Level 2 Application of Number / Numeracy cannot be substituted for GCSE Maths. Appropriate NICATs Maths in an Access course can be considered in lieu of GCSE Maths.

    and, one of the following:

    A LEVEL

    BBB

    BTEC EXTENDED DIPLOMA

    DDD – Not all BTEC Extended Diplomas are considered, please check with Academic Registry, Stranmillis.

    ACCESS COURSE

    Successful completion with an overall grade of 65%.

    CACHE EXTENDED DIPLOMA

    Grade B – Childcare, Learning and Development

    IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE

    H3H3H3H3H4H4 to include English and Mathematics.

    Alternative qualifications:

    Access or HND qualifications.

    Opportunities for articulation arrangements are available for Learners who have completed a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies.

    An interview may be required.

    Learners will be assessed using a variety of assessment methods including:

    Reflective Practice Portfolio (RPP);

    Examinations;

    Presentations;

    Practical;

    Seminars;

    Reflective Diaries/Logs;

    and / Reports.

    The degree provides the essential knowledge and experience for those working with young children in a variety of establishments and contexts. Graduates can pursue further study at both Postgraduate Diploma and Master's level in the fields of Early Childhood Studies, Play Therapy and provides a foundation for entry to postgraduate study to gain qualified teacher status, including the Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (Early Years).

    Applications to this programme are made via the Stranmillis University College website : www.stran.ac.uk *The fees quoted are payable for each year.

    1 Available Session

    *The fees quoted are per annum and are payable for each year of the course’s duration.

    Omagh

    Part-Time
    Application to this programme is made via Stranmillis and is not directly with SWC.

    P6004OP10A

    Session Code

    4 Year(s)

    Duration

    Higher Education

    Mode of Study

    5

    Hours per Week

    30

    Number of Weeks

    Interview Required

    25/26

    Academic Year

    09/09/2025

    Start Date

    15:30-21:00

    Time

    Tuesday

    Day/s

    grainne.logue@swc.ac.uk

    Coordinator(s)

    Total Annual Fee £1,320.00

    Total Concessionary Fee N/A

    Full Fee Breakdown

    **Concession Fee Breakdown

    Fees Payable Each Year

    **Am I eligible for concessionary fees?

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