Early Childhood Education

The MEd ECE incorporates current educational research and theory and the most effective pedagogical practices within a wide range of contemporary educational issues. The programme is designed for early childhood educators, primary teachers and professionals to work together to enhance the learning and development of children from birth to six years, across the full diversity of early childhood settings and the early years of primary school in Ireland.



It provides post-graduate professional development for those who wish to acquire advanced knowledge and extend their expertise in early childhood education (ECE) in relation to research, policy and practice to become agents of change and leaders.

The minimum entry requirement is a Level 8 award with a minimum of a H2.2.



In general, applicants will have degrees in education, early childhood education or studies, education and training, or other related and cognate fields, and two years’ experience in setting(s) supporting children from birth to six years, which may be post or prior to their Level 8 award.



Due to the specialist nature of this programme, additional criteria may be used to assess suitability to undertake this programme. For further information, please contact the Programme Chair using the contact details above

2 years part-time

Graduates of the Master of Education in Early Childhood Education will be in position to lead research, policy and practice in early childhood education.



Career opportunities include;



Leadership/Management roles in early years settings or primary schools

Early years inspector (Department of Education or Tusla, the Child and Family Agency)

Mentor/Trainer/Advisor for government agencies and organisations who support professional learning and development for early childhood educators and primary teachers

Further studies and research at doctoral level