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Early Childhood Studies

Early Childhood Studies

Research evidence has shown that significant learning occurs in a child’s first years. Enhancing that learning, supporting families and contributing to society through their work, are part of the varied roles that are taken on by Early Years practitioners.

The Early Childhood Education and Care sector in Ireland is rapidly evolving and is the constant focus of changing government policy. These changes impact on the experiences of children and families using ECEC services, on legislation and funding, and of course on practice. At NUI Galway, the BA in Early Childhood Studies & Practice responds to ongoing developments in the sector to ensure student-practitioners are up to date with current knowledge, research, legislation so that they may be responsive to the changing needs of children and families with whom they interact each day.

Our graduates are effective in a range of settings, drawing on a broad array of skills and knowledge to enrich children’s learning opportunities through daily practice within ECEC, to enhance the development of the sector through leadership roles, and to engage in research to further the knowledge base within the field.

NUI Galway also offers you progression opportunities to postgraduate level courses in Early Childhood Studies and Practice-based Play Therapy. The use of play and creative arts therapies, collectively known as ‘play therapy’ is growing rapidly throughout the world due to the effectiveness of these therapies in alleviating childrens’ emotional, conduct, social and mental health problems.

Early Childhood courses:

Early Childhood Studies & Practice (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

Early Childhood Studies & Practice (Masters)

Practice Based Play Therapy (P Cert/Dip)