Early Childhood Studies
The Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Belfast Met is your gateway to a rewarding career working with children and young people! If you have a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of 0-8 year olds, this two-year, full-time course is tailored for you.
| Award Name | Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Queens University Belfast |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 | Queens University Belfast |
Duration
2 years full-time.
Entry Requirements
Higher Education Entry Criteria
Each Higher Education programme has its own distinctive entry requirements. This is set as a minimum UCAS points for entry. On some programmes, applicants must also hold subject specific qualifications to gain a place. Therefore, it is essential that you check entry requirements for each programme you are applying for. Please note, these are qualifications that applicants must have completed and certified to gain entry onto the respective programmes.
Applicants must hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in both English Language and Mathematics. Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number and Essential Skills Literacy may be regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths and English.
We recognise that prior learning or experience may give some students credit towards a qualification to gain entry onto a programme or credit towards a programme of study. Please refer to our Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process.
Please also note: The College reserves the right to increase the entry requirements for all Higher Education provision based on demand and required academic standards, as specified by the Awarding Body/validating organisation.
Applicants applying to programmes validated by university partners (UU, QUB and OU) who hold international qualifications must provide certificates to determine equivalence before an offer can be made.
Careers / Further progression
Career Opportunities:
A Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies qualifies you for diverse roles in the education and childcare sectors. From nursery school assistant and classroom assistant to childcare assistant and early years specialist, you'll be equipped to make a difference.
Embark on your journey to becoming a skilled and compassionate professional in early childhood education. Join us at Belfast Met, where learning goes beyond the classroom, and your success is our priority. Apply now for a fulfilling career shaping the future of our youngest learners!
Further information
Academic period 2024:
Tuition Fee = £3167.00
Academic period 2025*:
Tuition Fee = £3167.00
Fees are payable annually.
*The fees for 2024 and 2025 have not been finalised and will be updated as soon as agreed.
Visit our Student Funding page to find out how to fund your studies
Please contact the student loan company if you require a loan or our Funding Team by emailing studentfunding@belfastmet.ac.uk for other options.
Start Date: 16/09/2024. End Date: 31/05/2026.
Applications to this course must be made through the UCAS system. To do this, please contact UCAS at 01242 222 444 or via the UCAS website. Information required for UCAS applications is on the relevant course page on our website. Please note: UCAS operate their own submission deadlines and application procedures. Please check with UCAS for the most up-to-date information.
Course Code: LX53.
Institution Code: U20
Campus name: Belfast Metropolitan College.
Early application is recommended due to the extremely high demand for this course.
This course is likely to include additional professional qualifications which are included to enhance your employability.
Please read our Terms and Conditions before applying for or enrolling on any of our courses.
Overview
The Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at Belfast Met is your gateway to a rewarding career working with children and young people! If you have a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of 0-8 year olds, this two-year, full-time course is tailored for you.
Course Overview:
Our Foundation Degree, validated by Stranmillis University College and Queens University Belfast, strikes a perfect balance between classroom learning and practical experience. You'll spend three days per week immersed in stimulating classes and two days per week gaining hands-on experience in a work placement with children aged 0-8 years.
Unique Learning Experience:
Our teaching approach is dynamic and engaging, focusing on both academic excellence and practical skill development. Project Based Learning activities, including visits to forest schools, W5, the Ulster Museum, and Botanic Gardens, enrich your understanding. Collaborative events like World Book Day with local primary schools and partnerships with other Belfast Met departments enhance your transferable skills.
Student Satisfaction:
In both 2022 and 2023, 100% of our learners reported high satisfaction levels with the course (NUS, 2022; NUS, 2023). We are committed to ensuring that every student's learning journey is fulfilling and rewarding.
Key Areas of Study:
Child Development: Gain in-depth knowledge of the developmental stages of children aged 0-8.
Learning Through Play: Explore the importance of play in early childhood education and development.
Safeguarding Children: Understand the crucial principles and practices of child protection.
Working with Children with Additional Needs: Learn to provide inclusive care for children requiring additional support.
The Foundation Degree contains no exams. Modules are assessed through a combination of assignments, case studies, presentations, practical as well as placement reports.
Contact Us
School Administrator,
Email: hcslinfo@belfastmet.ac.uk
Enquiries: 028 9026 5448