Close icon
Close icon

B Ed in Education and Psychology (MI008)

Note: The 'At a Glance' section below is indicative only. Hours and assessment methods vary across semesters, years and subjects.

CAO Points 2024: 590

Duration : 4 years full-time

Places Offered: 33 approx.

Location: MIC Limerick

Lecture Hours: 19 approx.

Tutorial Hours: 4 approx.

Assessment:

Mixed but may include presentations, portfolios, exams, group-work, poster presentations, roundtable discussions, case studies, lesson plans, objective tests, problem-based learning and essays.

  • Programme Overview
  • Programme Content
  • Entry Requirements
  • Ask a Question

Programme Overview

The B Ed in Education and Psychology is a unique four-year, full-time, double-honours (level 8) degree programme in Education and Psychology. The programme prepares graduates to be primary teachers, as accredited by the Teaching Council of Ireland, and obtain a degree in Psychology, as accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland.

MIC student in the art room at MIC Limerick

Modules

This programme is awarded by the University of Limerick and accredited by the Teaching Council and the Psychological Society of Ireland. The programme leads to a professional qualification in primary school teaching and a Level 8 academic qualification in Psychology. The programme is particularly suitable for, although not confined to, students who may wish to undertake a postgraduate specialisation subsequently in the field of Educational Psychology. Nonetheless, programme graduates have the option of undertaking postgraduate studies in any field of Psychology and/or Education. Notably, the complimentary nature of Education and Psychology degrees within the programme adds to the quality of the programme and the excellence of its students and graduates. 

Education: The Education component of the programme equips participants with the competence to teach all levels within the primary school context (4-12 year olds). Given the structure of primary school provision, the teacher is required to have a mastery and competence in all curricular areas of the primary school. Students engage in on-campus study in the areas of foundation studies, professional studies and the subject disciplines, alongside School Placement. The programme is carefully planned with a strong focus on the relationship between theory and practice. Reflecting the College's well-established reputation for excellence in teacher education, the Education component of the programme enables students to examine their role as a learner, a teacher, a researcher and a leader.

Psychology: Psychology is studied throughout the four years of the programme. Key areas of study include:

  • Developmental Psychology: Theory and Practice, Individual and Developmental Influences on Behaviour
  • Introduction to Research
  • Introduction to Social Psychology
  • Understanding the Psychology of Behaviour
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Research Design and Analyses
  • Individuality, Difference, and Psychological Science
  • Leading Teaching and Learning through Assessment
  • Advanced Cognitive Psychology
  • Applied Social Psychology
  • Early Childhood Curriculum and Education
  • Biological Basis of Behaviour
  • Advanced Research Methods
  • Advanced Issues in Educational Psychology
  • Advanced Issues in Developmental Psychology

Students also select one elective in their final semester of the programme from a range of modules.

As part of the final year, students are required to undertake an undergraduate dissertation in Psychology. This independent research project typically involves an applied piece of research in Psychology, where students collect and analyse original empirical data. Students are encouraged to select a novel research question that is situated in contemporary psychological discourse. Following completion and write-up of the UGD, students present their research at ‘PsychFest’, an MIC-hosted psychology undergraduate research colloquium. Thereafter, MIC students are actively encouraged to disseminate their research beyond MIC at regional, national, and international events, as well as in publication format. Further information on the success of students and graduates of the B.Ed in Education and Psychology Programme available here.  

Gaeltacht Courses - Tréimhsí Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht

All Bachelor of Education students, including those on the Bachelor of Education in Education and Psychology Programme, are required to attend two residential placements in the Gaeltacht as part of their studies – Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 1 agus 2. Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 1 is taken in Year 1 of the programme and Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 2 in Year 3. Each placement lasts two weeks.

This placement is funded by the Department of Education and Skills. Each of these modules is graded with an examination in oral Irish. Students take an examination in oral Irish after completing the first placement at the end of their first year of initial teacher education. Students must pass this examination in order to continue to the second year of the programme. A repeat of the examination in oral Irish is provided by the College. All Bachelor of Education students must have completed the two Gaeltacht placements successfully before entering year four of the programme.

Professional & Applied Placements

The professional placement element of the programme is designed to meet the Teaching Council’s requirements. Accordingly, students spend approximately 24 weeks in primary schools over the course of the programme. This period allows students to engage in observation, class-based and whole-school teaching and learning activities. Working in partnership with schools, the placements are designed to enable students to experience all class levels and a range of school types, and the student is guided and empowered along his/her learning-to-teach journey.

Practical Experience
Practical Experience
Professional and applied placements, a key part of the B Ed in Education and Psychology programme.
Mairead Fallon B Ed in Education & Psychology student
B Ed in Education and Psychology
Watch B Ed Psych student, Mairéad Fallon, speak about the studying on this programme

Student Testimonials

Brian O’Neill, B Ed in Education and Psychology

Beginning my journey at MIC, I was set on a teaching career with the added bonus of Psychology to bolster this vocation. Although solidifying my passion for teaching with a range of practical and taught modules, the multiple Psychology disciplines covered has allowed me to think beyond the teaching profession.

The small numbers and supportive close-knit community on the programme has enabled me to develop strong relationships with lecturers. This created a personally tailored and highly supportive environment, which is unique at third-level.

Furthermore, the advantage of the small programme numbers extends into the close relationships that I formed with like-minded classmates. Such relationships enhanced both my academic work and student life.

Career Opportunities

As the Education component of this programme retains all the key elements of the main Bachelor of Education, programme graduates are eligible to practice as primary school teachers. Additionally, in view of students' joint specialisation, graduates have the option of pursuing postgraduate studies in any field of Psychology. Graduates can also choose to undertake postgraduate studies in Education, as well as fields of research and study that combine both Education and Psychology.

From an education viewpoint, previous pathways adopted by programme graduates include teaching positions in primary and special schools. Graduates have also pursued postgraduate studies in education, resulting in leadership roles within schools and education bodies such as the Professional Development Service for Teachers and the National Council for Special Education Support Service.

In relation to Psychology, graduates have engaged in a range of postgraduate studies at Certificate, Diploma, Master's and Doctoral/PhD levels. Fields of study include Educational and Child Psychology, Health Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Neuropsychology, to name but a few. This has led to a range of roles for graduates in professional practice, research, education and academia. Some graduates have also pursued complimentary fields of study, such as Play Therapy.

Notably, many graduates of the B Ed in Education and Psychology programme often return to MIC to engage in studies on the Professional Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology (DECPsy) programme. Further information on this postgraduate programme, including programme content and entry requirements available here

Achievements of students and graduates of the B Ed in Education and Psychology programme

The B.Ed in Education and Psychology programme prides itself on standards of excellence across teaching, learning and research. In this regard, numerous students and graduates of the programme have been recognised regionally, nationally and internationally for the high calibre of their academic and research skills. For more information click on this link.

Scholarships

Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships

Each year, Mary Immaculate College awards up to 50 Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships across all undergraduate programmes valued at €2,000 each, on the basis of results obtained in the Irish Leaving Certificate Examination.

Further information about Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships available here.


Ashling Murphy Scholarship

We are delighted to honour the memory of Ashling Murphy by introducing a new scholarship in her name in recognition of her talents and love of traditional Irish music. The scholarship, valued at €4,000 and jointly awarded by MIC and the INTO, is restricted to B Ed applicants only and will be awarded on the basis of the applicant’s exceptional achievements and talent in the field of traditional Irish music.

Further information about the Ashling Murphy Scholarship available here.

Contact

MIC Education Office

E: EducationOffice@mic.ul.ie

Programme Content

Structure

Throughout the four-year programme, students will gain experience in multiple roles as Learner, Teacher, Researcher and Leader.  This is complemented by Psychology modules, commencing in Year 1.

Semester 1 (Year 1)
Language Education 1 (English): Supporting Integrated Learning Across the Curriculum

Mathematics Education 1: Developing Critical Mathematical Literacies to make Sense of the World

Foundations for Teaching and Learning: Schools and Society - where we are, how we got here and where to next

An Ghaeilge agus Múineadh na Gaeilge 1

School Placement & Taisce 1 and Microteaching

Developmental Psychology: Theory and Practice
Individual and Developmental Influences on Behaviour
Introduction to Research
Semester 2 (Year 1)
Language Education 2 (English): Supporting Integrated Learning across the Curriculum

Mathematics Education 2: Developing Critical Mathematical Literacies to make Sense of the World

Foundations for Teaching and Learning 2: Global Citizenship

Creative Arts 1: Inclusion, Integration, Imagination & Innovation
An Ghaeilge agus Múineadh na Gaeilge 2 agus Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 1

School Placement & Taisce 2 and Digital Technologies 1: Beginning to Teach

Introduction to Social Psychology
Semester 3 (Year 2)
Language Education 3 (English): Inclusive Language and Literacy Practice

Mathematics Education 3: Developing Critical Mathematical Literacies in Number and Algebra

Wellbeing: Physical Education & Social Personal and Health Education 1

Local, Global and Environmental Studies 1

Science Education 1: Creating a Scientific Habit of Mind

Creative Arts 2: Equality, Empowerment, Embodiment and Expression

Understanding the Psychology of Behaviour:  Supporting Relationships, Engagement, Participation and Learning

Cognitive Psychology

Gaeilge: Students must choose one of the following:

  • An Ghaeilge agus Múineadh na Gaeilge 3 (scoileanna T1)
  • An Ghaeilge agus Múineadh na Gaeilge 3 (T2)
Semester 4 (Year 2) 
Wellbeing: Physical Education & Social Personal and Health Education 2

Science Education 2: Developing Scientific Connections with the World around us

Early Childhood Curriculum and Education 1

School Placement & Taisce 3 & Language Studies (English 4 & Gaeilge 4)

Research Design and Analyses

Individuality, Difference, and Psychological Science
Semester 5 (Year 3)

Pedagogical Practice: Transdiciplinary, Inclusive & Global Citizenship Education Methodologies

Digital Technologies

Inclusive Education: SEN and Interculturalism

Leading Teaching and Learning through Assessment

Advanced Cognitive Psychology

Applied Social Psychology

Religious Education: Students must choose from one of the following modules:

  • Religious Education 1 (Christian Schools)
  • Ethical, Multi-Belief and Values Education Patrons' Curricula 1
Semester 6 (Year 3)
Language Education 5 (English): Supporting Integrated Learning across the Curriculum

Local, Global and Environmental Studies 2

Múineadh na Gaeilge and Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 2

Early Childhood Curriculum and Education 2: Linking sites of Practice & Taisce 

Biological Basis of Behaviour

Advanced Research Methods

Religious Education: Students must choose from one of the following:

  • Religious Education 2 (Christian Schools)
  • Ethical, Multi-Belief and Values Education Patrons' Curricula 2
 
 
Semester 7 (Year 4) 

Undergraduate Dissertation in Psychology 1

School Placement & Taisce 4

School Placement & Taisce 5

School Placement & Taisce 6
Semester 8 (Year 4)

Foundations for Teaching and Learning 3: Schools and Society – Equality and Equity in Education: Perspectives on Race, Ethnicity and Social Class

Foundations for Teaching and Learning 4: Child Protection, Professional and Legal Responsibilities
Undergraduate Dissertation in Psychology 2

Advanced Issues in Educational Psychology

Advanced Issues in Developmental Psychology

STUDENTS TO CHOOSE ONE FROM THE FOLLOWING (Electives subject to change):

Sport Psychology
Coaching Psychology
Human Behaviour and Mental Health
Health Psychology
The Psychology of Motivation

 

Entry Requirements

Applicants must be at least 16 years old on 15 January of the year of entry.

Applicants must have obtained the following minimum grades at a single sitting of the examination:

  • Grade H5 on a Higher Level paper in at least three subjects
  • Grade O6/H7 in three other subjects (Higher or Ordinary Level)

Applicants must have obtained the following grades, at minimum, in the following subjects:

  • Gaeilge - Grade H4
  • Mathematics - O4 or H7
  • English - O4 or H7

Foundation Level Mathematics does not satisfy the entry requirement in Mathematics.

The Department of Education and Skills Entry Requirements for 2024 available here.

Note: Minimum grades required in Gaeilge, English and Mathematics can be obtained at different sittings of the Leaving Certificate Examination(s). The requirement to achieve a minimum of Grade H5 in three Higher Level papers and Grade O6/H7 in three other subjects (Higher or Ordinary Level) must be obtained in a single sitting of the Leaving Certificate Examination.

Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP)

Link modules will be accepted for points purposes but they will not qualify as a subject for matriculation purposes.

GCE/GCSE 

Further information about minimum grades and entry requirements is available here or please contact the MIC Admissions Office at E: Admissions@mic.ul.ie.

Student Fitness to Teach Form

In order to establish students' fitness to teach, all incoming teacher education students are required to complete a Student Fitness to Teach Form.

Garda Vetting /Criminal Records Bureau Check (for UK students)

Registration will be conditional upon successful completion of the Garda Vetting/CRB checking process.

If you are at least 23 years old on the 1 January of the year of entry to College, you are considered as a mature applicant.

Mature applicants wishing to apply to Mary Immaculate College for MI008 must apply for entry through CAO www.cao.ie. The closing date each year is 1 February and applications will not be accepted after this date.

While 1 February is the deadline through CAO for completed applications, programme choices may be amended up until 1 March.

In March, those mature applicants meeting the eligibility criteria will be sent an email (to the email account registered to their CAO account), with instructions for completing and submitting a supplementary form, which must be returned to the MIC Admissions Office.

Download the supplementary form here (file format: pdf). It is advisable to download and save the supplementary form locally, open the saved form from your PC and then email the completed form to Admissions@mic.ul.ie

Personal Statement

In addition to applying through the CAO, Mature applicants must also complete a Personal Statement. The Personal Statement guideline can be downloaded here. It is advisable to download and save the guideline/personal statement form locally, open the saved form from your PC and then email the completed form to Admissions@mic.ul.ie by 31 March 2024

 

The CAO has a video guide for Mature Applicants wishing to apply, and it can be accessed on the CAO website.

The Department of Education and Skills Minimum Entry Requirements for 2024 available here.


Academic Requirements

Minimum Grades in Leaving Certificate Examination from 2017 onwards

  • Grade H4 on a Higher Level paper in Irish, and Grade H5 in two other subjects.
  • English - H7 or O4
  • Maths - H7 or O4
  • One H7 or O6 grade in another subject

Minimum Grades in Leaving Certificate Examination 1992-2016

Grade HC2 grade in Irish and 2 HD1 grades in two other subjects. Applicants must have obtained the following grades at minimum in subjects specified:

  • Irish - HC2
  • English - HE or OC2
  • Maths - HE or OC2

Accepted Examination Alternatives

There are a number of acceptable alternatives to Leaving Cert Irish English and Maths, and these are listed on the Department of Education and Skills Minimum Entry Requirements each year.

Combination of Leaving Certificate Examination Grades

Mature applicants for MI008 who wish to be considered on the grounds of age, and wish to attend for Interview and Oral Irish test, may combine results obtained at the Leaving Certificate Examination in different years for the purpose of meeting the academic requirements.

Interview and Oral Irish Test

All mature applicants who make an application to MIC through the CAO for MI008 and, are meeting the eligibility criteria, will be invited for an interview and an Oral Irish test. Applicants are awarded a mark for their performance at the interview and an additional mark for the Oral Irish test. The combined score determines the applicant’s place on the order of merit list. Where places remain unfilled after the list of successful first preference applicants has been exhausted, offers will be made to other applicants in order of preference and in accordance with the order of merit. Applicants who get a fail in either the interview or Oral Irish test will be eliminated from the competition. Applicants

Mature Applicants - Interview Marking Sheet available to download here.

Mature Applicants - Oral Irish Marking Sheet available to download here.

 

For details of Uversity Scholarships for Mature Applicants click here. Applications can be submitted from 1 February 2024 to 31 March 2024.

Offer of Place

Mature applicants who have completed an Interview and Oral Irish test will be contacted by the College to indicate whether or not they are being offered a place, and all places will be offered by the CAO.

Student Fitness to Teach Form

In order to establish students’ fitness to teach, all incoming teacher education students are required to complete a Student Fitness to Teach Form.

Garda Vetting /Criminal Records Bureau Check (for UK students)

Registration will be conditional upon successful completion of the Garda Vetting/CRB checking process.

Contact Admissions Office

E admissions@mic.ul.ie

Telephone: 061 205137 /204348

 

Fees & Grants

Fees

Tuition fees may be paid in respect of full-time undergraduate students undertaking approved courses in eligible institutions. Details of the Free Fees criteria are listed here.

If you do not qualify for free fees, undergraduate tuition fees and other charges may apply. See Undergraduate Fees here.

Grants

Students apply for a grant through Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) and if they meet certain criteria, they may be eligible for full or partial financial support.

Before applying at www.susi.ie, please review the criteria carefully.

Contact
MIC Admissions Office
061 205137/ 204348

Ask a Question

  • Programme Overview
  • Programme Content
  • Entry Requirements
  • Ask a Question