NCI Blog

Early Childhood Education and Care is the study of the holistic development of children from birth to pre-primary age. The BA (Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care is available through both daytime and evening delivery options, giving a wide range of flexbility to every student whether they are new to the sector or returning to education.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about studying Early Childhood Education and Care at NCI.

What is the difference between the Daytime and the Evening delivery of the course?

The Full-Time Daytime delivery of the programme is aimed at recent school leavers, with classes being held on campus. Students can apply via the CAO using the course code NC030. 

The Full-Time Evening delivery of the programme is aimed at mature students, with online classes two evenings a week and some Saturdays on campus. Students for the Evening programme can apply directly via our website.

What are the entry requirements for this course?

For the Daytime delivery of this programme, the minimum entry requirements are H5 in two subjects, and O6/H7 in four subjects in the Leaving Certificate or equivalent, which must include English and Mathematics. Applicants from a PLC/further education course must have a full level 5/6 award, three distinctions and meet the CAO points requirement. For reference, 2024 CAO minimum points threshold was 240.

Students with a major award in Early Learning and Care/Early Childhood Education and Care at NFQ level 6 will be eligible for advanced entry into year two of the programme, subject to certain criteria. To find out if you are eligible please contact admissions@ncirl.ie.

For the evening delivery of this programme, the minimum entry requirements are a level 5 qualification in any discipline, ideally with professional involvement in the delivery of learning in Early Childhood Education and Care. Applicants may be interviewed by the Programme Director.

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements outlined above may apply through Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) which considers applicants based on relevant work experience.

What modules are taught on this course?

Students will study on an extensive range of modules designed to develop their holistic profile within the Early Childhood sector. Examples include Music, Movement, Art and Drama, Child Health Nutrition and Wellbeing, Dispositions and Dynamics of Behaviour in Children among many more.

Is work placement included?

Yes, a necessary and rewarding element of the programmes is the emphasis on supervised professional practice placement in Early Childhood settings.

Field visits are an essential component within year one, supervised Professional Placement are key modules within year 2 and year 3, while year 4 provides an opportunity for students to combine their experiences and skills in a practice-based/led capstone project.

Is this a recognised degree?

Yes, both the Daytime and Evening programmes are recognised degrees and is approved by the Qualifications Advisory Board (instituted to review Level 7 and Level 8 degree programmes for the Early Learning and Care sector) as meeting the requirements of the Professional Award Criteria and Guidelines standards.

What are the course fees?

The Daytime BA (Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care is a self-funded programme that is not eligible for the Free Fees Initiative. The course fee is 4,800 per annum. However, there are opportunities for financial support available. In the past, students enrolled in these programmes who qualified for a grant received SUSI funding to cover either 100% or 50% of their tuition fees. We recommend contacting SUSI directly to confirm whether your Student Contribution Charge will be covered. 

The Evening BA (Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care is also a self-funded programme that is broken down as follows:

• Year 1- €2,370
• Year 2 - €2,825
• Year 3 - €4,100
• Year 4 - €4,100

You can spread the cost of the course by using a direct debit plan. There is a range of Scholarship opportunities available for applicants. 

Applications for the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund, which makes up to a 90% contribution towards course fees on the evening delivery of this programme, are now open until May 1st. 

What careers/roles could graduates of this degree have?

This course is ideal for individuals who would like to work with babies, toddlers, and young children from birth to age six or those working in the Early Childhood Years sector wishing to upskill. The course is also suitable for those employed in regulatory bodies such as TUSLA (the Child and Family Support Agency), Better Start, or other early childhood intervention programmes.

Additionally, the BA will provide you with the tools and skills you need for roles such as early childhood inspector, evaluator, mentor, or curriculum trainer. We encourage both school leavers and mature learners returning to education to apply.

Whether you're passionate about working directly with children or pursuing a leadership role in early childhood education, NCI provides the support and resources to help you succeed. 

Have more questions about studying Early Childhood Education and Care at NCI? Come to our Spring Open Day on the 10th of May and meet with staff and students. Register Here.