Overview

This three-year degree in Early Years and Childhood Studies from University College Cork will expose you to interdisciplinary perspectives from the Schools of Applied Psychology, Applied Social Studies and Education, each of which contributes a third of the teaching.

The curriculum places emphasis on 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 10- to 12-week placement in both Years 2 and 3. 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.

Career

Graduates have secured employment as managers of early childhood care and education centres, supervisors and staff, play therapists, primary school teachers, social workers, youth and community workers and disability nurses, among other roles.