EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES BA (Hons) Stranmillis University Accredited by Queen's University Belfast

Level 6
Higher Education
Newry Campus
Queen's University Belfast

Overview

This course from Stranmillis University College and validated by Queen's University Belfast, is specifically aimed at students who have completed the QUB Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies and who are employed in the early years sector.

The programme aims to investigate and advance a multi-professional approach to early childhood education and care services in Northern Ireland and beyond. The programme has been designed by professionals across the sector to meet the training needs of current and future practitioners. The programme provides a broad understanding of how young children think, learn and develop.

The degree is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the holistic development and education of young children from birth to eight years old. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare students for a range of careers in early childhood education, childcare, and related fields.

The programme covers three core themes - Understanding the Child, The Child in the Learning Context and The Child in the Family and Community' - taking account of the latest developments within the field of early childhood and reflecting the multi-professional and multidisciplinary nature of contemporary early childhood services.

Throughout the course, students will explore various aspects of early childhood development, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains. They will study child psychology, language and literacy development, play-based learning, and early intervention strategies. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in understanding child development and the factors that contribute to optimal growth and learning during the early years.

Applications are made via Stranmillis University College. Please contact the Course Director Bernie McMahon for further details: mcmahonb@src.ac.uk

This course begins in January 2026, running for 5 semesters over 3 academic years.

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to the course, is evidence that the learner or apprentice is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft Teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

Applicants must have attained a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies from Queen's University Belfast in association with Stranmillis University College
Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of relevant qualifications, substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience should contact Admissions at Stranmillis University College.

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Procedure.

For further detail on our entry requirements please review our Admissions Policy & Criteria.

Modules include:

Management Leadership and Professionalism
Partnership with Children and Families
Research Methods
Children in the Early Years Environment
Curiosity, Creativity and the Child
Diversity and Inclusion
International Perspectives
Dissertation
3 optional modules

This course will be assessed through critically reflective essays, individual and group projects and presentations, written examinations and a final project.

Where the exam/awarding body fee is listed as TBC in the full fee breakdown, the information has not yet been released by our partner awarding bodies for 25/26. This fee will be updated as soon as it becomes available.

Fees displayed for each course represent fees to be charged for year 1 of each programme. Please note that fees may increase in year 2 or 3 of the course. Read more in our Fees Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

The degree in Early Childhood Studies provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in pursuing education at post graduate level to further specialise in their field. Graduates may choose to pursue postgraduate studies in areas such as early childhood education, child development, or educational leadership to expand their career opportunities or advance into leadership positions.

Upon successful completion of the Degree in Early Childhood Studies, graduates will be well-prepared for a variety of roles in the field of early childhood education and care. They may find employment in roles such as: