Early Years Degree FAQs: Your Most Common Questions Answered

We understand that choosing the right qualification is a big decision, especially when you're balancing work and study.

In this blog, we aim to answer your frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact our dedicated admissions team.

If you have a question about  Early Years you can book a call with our admissions advisor  Limin Bai here, or email  limin.bai@portobelloinsitute.com.

Is the Early Childhood degree fully online?

Yes, the programme is delivered fully online.

For students enrolling in the Level 7 (two-year) and Level 8 (three-year) programmes, we invite students to attend an induction day on campus. During this session, students complete Garda Vetting, receive their student card, and have the opportunity to meet tutors and the administration team.

For students enrolling in the Level 8 One-Year Top-Up programme, the induction takes place online.

How often are online classes?

Online classes are typically held once per week in the evening from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.

All sessions are recorded, so if you are unable to attend the live class you can watch the recording at a time that suits your schedule.

Are there exams?

No. There are no exams on this programme.

Assessment is based on assignments and work experience hours, allowing you to apply what you learn directly to your professional practice.

Each module typically includes one to three assignments, and extensions can be requested if needed.

How many modules are in the programme?

The number of modules varies depending on the year of study.

Level 7 (two-year programme) and Level 8 (three-year programme)

• Year 1: 4 modules
• Year 2: 5 modules
• Year 3 (Level 8 only): 2 modules
• Students complete the Level 7 qualification first.
• They can later progress to the Level 8 One-Year Top-Up at any stage.
• Students enrol directly onto the full Level 8 programme.
• The degree is completed over three years as a continuous pathway.
• February (Spring intake)
• May (Summer intake)
• October (Autumn intake)

Each module includes a range of practical assignments designed to support professional development in Early Childhood education and care.

What is the difference between the Level 7 and Level 8 programmes?

Students who hold a Level 6 qualification in Early Learning and Care can choose between two progression routes.

Level 7 Degree (Two-Year Programme)

Level 8 (Three-Year Programme)

Both routes lead to the opportunity to achieve a Level 8 honours degree.

How many intakes are available each year?

We offer three intakes per year, giving students flexibility when starting their studies:

How many work experience hours are required?

Work experience is an important part of the Early Childhood degree.

Required hours are: 

Level 7 (two-year programme) and Level 8 (three-year programme)

• Year 1: 450 hours
• Year 2: 450 hours
• Year 3 (Level 8 only): 100 hours (for students who completed Level 7 with Portobello from 2024)
• 550 hours (for students who completed Level 7 at another college or before 2024)
• NSLF Funding – Available once per year for the October intake for Level 7 and Level 8 (three-year) programmes.
• Skillnet Sponsorship – Available across different intakes depending on sponsor availability.
• Employer sponsorship or self-funding may also be options for some students.
• Skillnet sponsorship is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
• NSLF funding is awarded based on eligibility criteria and available places.

Level 8 One-Year Top-Up

Students are able to use their existing work hours in an Early Years setting to meet these requirements, so additional placement hours is not required.

What funding options are available?

There are several funding options available depending on eligibility:

How does the NSLF funding application process work?

Students first apply to Portobello Institute.

Once eligibility is confirmed, a €360 deposit is paid and the college will issue an approval letter. Our admissions team will then guide students through the NSLF funding application process.

For example, the 2026 application window is expected to run approximately:

10 March – 1 May 2026
(Dates may vary slightly each year depending on official announcements.)

How much does NSLF funding cover?

The tuition fee is €3,600 per year.

NSLF funding covers 80% of the tuition fee (€2,880).
The remaining student contribution is €720 per year.

Students may also be able to claim 10% of the fees back (€360) approximately six months after completing the course. This means that up to 90% of the total tuition fee may be covered.

What percentage of students receive funding?

Funding availability varies:

Will my deposit be refunded if funding is not successful?

Yes. The €360 deposit will be fully refunded if you decide not to proceed with the October intake due to unsuccessful funding.

Is there a payment plan available?

Yes.

Students typically pay 30% of the tuition fees upfront, with the remaining balance paid over 10 months via standing order.

I have a Level 6 qualification. Can I progress to the degree?

Yes.

If you send us your qualifications, our admissions team can review them and advise on the best progression pathway within two working days.

I have qualifications from another country. Can they be recognised?

Yes.

International qualifications can be reviewed by our team. If they are not already listed with DCEDIY, we can help guide you through the recognition process or assist with qualification mapping.

Our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) review is free.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We hope this overview gives you a better understanding of our Early Childhood degree programmes and the pathways available to you.

Whether you're looking to progress from a Level 6 qualification, gain a Level 7 degree, or complete a Level 8 honours qualification, our flexible online programmes are designed to support you while you work.

If you have any questions or would like help choosing the right pathway, our admissions team is here to help.

If you have a question about our Early Childhood programmes, you can book a call with our admissions advisor Limin Bai here, or email limin.bai@portobelloinsitute.com

You can also explore our courses and upcoming intakes by visiting the Early Years faculty at Portobello Institute.