BA (Hons) in Leadership and Management for the Early Years Sector
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NOW ENROLLING FOR AUTUMN 2025
Course Overview
The aim of the programme is to provide learners with a specialised knowledge and understanding that enables them to respond effectively to ongoing and future developments in the Early Years Sector.
Students will be empowered to become more knowledgeable, skilled and autonomous early childhood practitioners who can critically evaluate and reflect on current practice and who are committed to active and supportive team leadership. The programme aims to nurture students' personal, social and professional development with a view to producing a highly competent professional educator who strives towards achieving ethical, evidence-based practice within the Early Years sector
What makes this course different
QQI Level 8 Award
Blended course delivery (online & in-class) to allow greater flexibility to learners as they manage full-time employment and part-time study.
Programme is recognised on the Department of Children and Youth Affairs early years qualifications listing that meets the regulatory requirements for working in the Early Years sector in Ireland.
Course Delivery and Modules
The course takes place over one academic year (two semesters). The course uses a blended learning approach, whereby learners engage in class contact and online delivery. Programmes are now being delivered online on Mondays and Wednesdays (18.00hrs to 21.30hrs) and full 3 Saturdays (09.00hrs to 16.00hrs) face to face (in either DkIT or CCOC, Cork).
Online induction runs Monday 16th September from 6pm to 9pm. Programme continues thereafter online from Wednesday 18th September from 6pm to 9pm.
Due to the blended learning delivery within this course, students should have access to PC / Mac and a broadband internet connection from home, so as to be able to fully participate in the course.
Please note this is subject to change
Fees and Funding
€2,500 per year payable as follows:
- Payment 1 = Offer Acceptance Fee of €200 (non-refundable)
- Payment 2 = €1,050 (payable by 31st October)
- Payment 3 = €1,250 (payable by 28th February)
Fees
Entry requirements
Level 7 BA in Early years or equivalent. The level 7 academic programme must have included research.
Graduates of other disciplines will be assessed for entry through the recognition of prior learning process on an individual case by case basis. Candidates may be interviewed. Learn more about RPL at DkIT
Work experience: Applicants should have access to a Tusla Registered Early Years’ service or work in another relevant organisation in the Early Years Sector throughout their Programme for a minimum of 15 hours per week. This is to facilitate the integration of theory with practice (focus on reflexivity) and to meet the programme learning outcomes.
Student Stories
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Majella O'Hagan
Siobhán Duffy
How to apply
Please review the entry requirements before applying and include a copy of your CV, academic transcripts and employer's letter confirming 15 hours work per week for the duration of the course.
Apply Directly to DkIT
Apply directly to DkIT using our online applications system. Please remember to upload the required documentation (copies of your existing qualification(s), your CV, any other support documents etc) with your online application to expedite your application. To avoid disappointment early registration is recommended.
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