The programme is addressed to High School graduates who want to build a career as early childhood educators.

Entry Requirements:

• High School leaving certificate (Apolyterion) from a General or Vocational Senior High School (or equivalent)
• Reference Letter (1)
• Adequate knowledge of English (IELTS 4.5 or equivalent) *
• Academic Interview
• Photos (2)
• ID-Card/ passport

*The level of English required for the English-taught programme is equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or B2. Candidates without official English language certificates can sit the English language placement test of Mediterranean College.

Holders of Vocational Training Institutes (IEK) Diplomas or Higher National Diplomas (HND), students of Technological (TEI) or Higher Education Institutions (AEI) of relevant fields may be admitted to an advanced stage of the course, upon a Recognition of Prior Learning procedure. They need to additionally submit:

• Diploma and/or academic transcript
• Programme Handbook (if available)

The programme examines the significance of childhood and the multiple needs of children, and how these can be met by education professionals. Particular emphasis is placed on the personal and professional development of students, through the module content, student placement and the multiple complementary educational activities.

The programme comprises modules equivalent to 20 credits, plus an independent study (dissertation) that equals 40 credits. Modules are delivered across two semesters per academic year. Teaching and learning involves various approaches, such as lectures, guest lectures, workshops, tutorials, group activities, integrated projects, oral presentations and supervision. All modules for the Greek taught programme are delivered and assessed in Greek. All modules for the English taught programme are delivered and assessed in English.

Lectures aim to the understanding of the theory and the important issues related to each module. Seminars & workshops focus on selected topics that have been covered in lectures and are more interactive in nature, where students adopt active roles in teaching and learning. Additional practical exercises provide experience in applying scientific methods on inquiry. Finally, group and individual tutorials enable students to better comprehend certain aspects of the modules.

The programme applies a variety of assessment tools, including essays, reports, oral presentations, poster / booklet / leaflet presentations, conference presentations and independent research. The programme does not include written exams.

The learning process is enriched by further activities of the College and the School of Education in particular, including:

• Seminars and Forums
• Annual Student Excellence Conference
• Participation of students in national and international conferences
• Bazaar charity events
• Voluntary activity
• Field trips
• Guest lectures
• Certified CPD courses (offered by Mediterranean Professional Studies)

• The University of Derby, according to the Guardian University Guide (2019), is placed among the TOP-18 UK Universities for studies in Education and ranks first in Greece among UK Universities represented in the country.

• The programme is delivered in Greek or English. English as a foreign language lessons provided during the 1st and 2nd year of study are specially designed to introduce students to early years terminology and to cover their academic needs in terms of accessing international academic journals, books and guides. Students attending the Greek-taught programme are assessed in Greek; however, they retain the right to submit their assignments in English if they wish so and subject to proven English language proficiency. Students attending the English-taught programme are assessed in English. English lessons together with students’ interaction with English-written bibliography lead to the acquisition of advanced English as a foreign language competency with the potential of certification at Proficiency (C2) level.

• The programme includes compulsory work placement with structured supervision, in collaboration with a wide network of preschool educational centres and nurseries. Modules in Art, Music, Movement and Drama, delivered in the designated Early Years workshops, strengthen the practice-based knowledge of students.

• The programme does not include exams. Students are assessed by alternative means, such as essays, oral presentations, posters and online tests. Teaching and learning is achieved in the most creative way: workshops, role-plays, guest lectures, field trips, poster presentations, individual research, etc. Special emphasis is given on academic research, in order to help students develop the adequate skills to continue their studies at a postgraduate level. The student learning experience is further enhanced through the School of Education activities.

• Mediterranean College gives particular emphasis on the academic support of undergraduate students: a personal tutor is assigned to every student; lecturers are available at office hours; students with difficulties may use the services of the counselling and academic skills centre; students receive regular feedback on their academic progress; students have full access to the College’s libraries and electronic resources.

• All academic staff are accredited lecturers of the University of Derby for every module they teach. Mediterranean College implements an integrated system of recruitment, assessment and continuing professional development of academic staff, so that students receive excellent teaching and personal support to develop their social and professional skills.

• Students are supported by a personal tutor, who helps them design and implement their individual Personal Development Plan (PDP).

• Early Years Education students actively participate in activities organised within the MC Employability Scheme, the College’s integrative employability development plan, which prepares them to be competitive in the demanding labour market.

The programme graduates, according to the Greek law, are holders of an accredited university degree, professionally equivalent to those awarded by Greek State Technological or Higher Education Institutes. If they wish so, they can have their degree recognised by the Greek authorities. Click here for more information on the degree recognition procedure.

The BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies leads to the professional recognition of Early Childhood Educator or Nursery Teacher. After successfully completing the programme, graduates may continue for a Master’s degree at Mediterranean College or at overseas universities. Alternatively, they can seek employment.

BA (Hons) holders may attend the following Master programmes offered by Mediterranean College:

• MA Inclusion and Special Educational Needs and Disability (ISEND)
• MA Education: Leadership and Management
• MA Education (TESOL): Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Alternatively, they can specialise on certain fields by attending selected accredited CPD courses offered by Mediterranean Professional Studies:

• Counselling Psychology
• Special Educational Needs
• Drama Play

After completing the programme, graduates can work in various educational settings:

• Kindergartens, nursery schools and private schools
• Special education centres
• Childcare centres
• Centres for creative development
• Playgrounds and camps
• Counseling centres (for families/children)
• Non-Governmental Organisations
• Educational programmes of museums and cultural centres