Childhood Studies

This programme addresses the needs of practitioners and graduates who wish to develop their knowledge and professional competence in areas focusing on professionally supporting childhood development and should be of particular relevance to existing Level 8 graduates of programmes in areas such as Early Learning & Care; Primary & Post Primary Education, nursing, social care, psychology, sociology, social science, youth work and community studies and related disciplines.



This programme has been designed to accommodate the needs of both new and recent graduates as well as those students currently holding positions in the children and young people’s workforce, including those wishing to advance their careers or indeed change careers.



Applicants should be driven by a desire to be professional leaders and agents for collegial support and change; recognising the special contribution that higher education in these fields (using a range of scientifically established paradigms and approaches) can make to professionals involved in supporting children to realise their potential.



Structure of Course

Learners can complete this course on a full-time basis over 1 year and on a part-time basis over 2 years. Attendance would normally require attendance in person (either in class or on Zoom) on 1 evening per week (6 pm to 9 pm) and Saturdays (9.30 am to 4.30 pm) in the academic year from September to July. The timetable has been structured to optimise the utilisation of online learning via Zoom which allows the learner to access classes using on-line facilities.

Mandatory Modules

• Critical Perspectives on Child & Youth Development

• Research Methodologies & Design

• Curricular & Pedological Approaches in Early Learning & Care

• Governance & Professional Leadership in Child and Adolescent Practice

• Contemporary Discourses in Early Learning and Care

• Practicum

• Dissertation

The knowledge, skills, and competence required to successfully participate in and complete this Level 9 programme will normally require applicants to have successfully achieved a Level 2:2 award in a relevant Level 8 degree.



Those who have completed other relevant educational programmes or have relevant professional experience etc., where Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) and Acquired Prior Learning (APL) can be applied to the programme by submission of programme content, qualification, and assignments equivalent to an appropriate Level 8 award at an Honours 2:2 standard, can also be considered. Candidates over 23 years of age who hold significant professional qualifications and or can demonstrate appropriate learning from experiential or other sources of learning may apply through a Recognition of Prior Learning route (RPL). For non-native speakers of English, an IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) is required. Candidates may study on either a full-time or part-time basis.



All applicants will be required to attend for interview to ascertain their suitability for the programme.



In the case of overseas applications, whose first language is not English, applicants will have to provide either certification of completion of a primary degree through the medium of English or submit the official results of English Language competency demonstrated through the completion of English language proficiency tests indicating a minimum score of to B2+ in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL). Certification may be evidenced through the production of a certificate of IELTS Level 6.5 or equivalent) or equivalent competency tests, if applicable.



All international applicants must meet the visa requirements for study in Ireland.



Successful applicants would be required to complete Garda Vetting at the College.



If you have any queries in relation to this course then please contact the college on 061 216288 or email us at info@ichas.ie. A member of the Admissions team will be happy to assist you.

1 Year (Full Time) (Evening Programme) 2 Years ( Part-Time)

Intake Dates

Limerick - Full-Time - September 2025

Limerick - Part-Time - September 2025

Dublin - Part-Time - September 2025

Dublin - Full-Time - September 2025

Dublin - Full-Time - February 2026

Limerick - Full-Time - September 2026

Limerick - Part-Time - September 2026

Dublin - Part-Time - September 2026

Where Can I progress to on completion of the course?

On successful completion of the MA in Childhood Studies, learners will be qualified to access Level 10 Programmes on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).