St. Nicholas Montessori College BA in Psychology / B.Ed. in Montessori Education / Demntia Cert Programme
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Psychology
Applicants to this programme must meet normal QQI requirements for entry to a level 8 programme as follows: Level 8: H5 or above in 2 higher level subjects AND a minimum of 4 O6s at ordinary level which must include maths and English. Applicants may apply under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning, (RPEL), and are considered on a case by case basis. Applicants wishing to apply to the course using RPL and or RPEL must inform the College at the time of application. Further details on the requirements and processes for RPL and RPEL can be found on this website on the RPL Page.
Programme PDF here.
B.Ed. in Montessori Education (Early Years) / B.Ed. in Montessori Education (to Age 12)
The B.Ed. in Montessori Education degree is designed for learners who wish to embark on a career in Montessori Teaching and Early Years Education and Care (ECEC). It is a broad- based modular programme incorporating Montessori pedagogy and philosophy with the core knowledge and skills necessary to work in the early childhood sector. The programme also provides training in business skills appropriate for those wishing to set up /manage a small business. Learners are required to complete a significant practicum (500 hours over the first three years and 100 hours in year 4), in relevant settings. In the first two years of the programme, students focus on early education up to age 6. In year 3 the focus progresses to the transition to primary education and explores the education in children up to age 9. Students can opt to exit the programme at this stage with a Level 7 award. In the final year of the programme students can choose one of two routes leading to the different award titles:
- Route A: Montessori Education for children ages 9 – 12 leading to the B.Ed. (Hons) in Montessori Education at Level 8
- Route B: A return to explore in further depth Montessori Education as it applies to the early years leading to the B.Ed. (Hons) in Montessori Education (Early Years) at Level 8.
These programmes are recognised by the Qualifications Advisory Board for the purposes of professional recognition in the early years sector. In addition these programmes will enable graduates to work as Montessori classroom teachers in Montessori primary schools (including our own schools) with children up to age 9 (Level 7) and up to age 12 (Route A, Level 8).
Montessori Education for Dementia Certificate Programme
Each of the four programme modules is taught by a specialist in the field of Montessori, Psychology or Gerontology, giving students the opportunity to learn from skilled professionals who can mentor them in applying evidence-based strategies to improve the lives of older adults.
The Certificate Programme provides flexibility for working professionals by offering classes live online twice weekly for one hour each evening. Additional self-paced learning is supported through reading assignments, videos, and other resources housed in an online class platform that students can access any time of day. Three intensive workshops spaced throughout the semester provide opportunities for in depth learning of specific topics and group work that focuses on application of concepts.
Anyone is welcome to register for the introductory workshop without committing to attending the semester long study. The College offers group discounts to care communities that would like to send several staff members to learn how Montessori can provide an innovative person-centred approach to dementia care.
This unique programme develops practitioners who are knowledgeable about and competent in applying the Montessori philosophy to elder care. All students who earn the Level 6 Special Purpose Award will also qualify for the Association Montessori Internationale Practitioner Certificate in Montessori for Dementia and Ageing.