BA (Honours) in Early Childhood Care and Education in Co. Waterford Ireland | South East Technological University

The BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Care and Education is a four-year undergraduate program. Structured around four key academic components—theoretical knowledge, practical application, research, and reflective practice—this course prepares graduates for professional roles in various early childhood settings serving children up to age eight. The curriculum integrates fundamental disciplines such as early childhood education, psychology, sociology, legal studies, and personal/professional growth, alongside mandatory supervised fieldwork. Practical placements occur during semesters three, six, and eight, providing students with hands-on experience to develop essential skills while exploring care and education principles through direct work with children, families, and professionals. These immersive placements strengthen students' ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world practice. The program culminates with a final-year research project, enabling students to investigate a specialized topic within early childhood theory and practice.