Education - Inclusive Education Learning Support & Special Education

This programme is open to primary and post-primary teachers who provide special education teaching, teachers in special schools and classes, and special education teachers in further education and alternative settings.*



You’ll gain an understanding of important principles and concepts of inclusion and special education, and learn more about short and long-term planning and inclusive pedagogies and teaching practices. You’ll also explore the role of effective collaboration and leadership for inclusion in your school setting.



Grow your knowledge, skills and competencies

Fully funded by the Department of Education (including substitution where required), the course offers a hybrid study format with on-campus and online learning. You’ll also get the opportunity to observe practice in other educational settings to give you an insight into special educational provisions different to your own.



On completion, you’ll be eligible to apply for certain Master’s programmes within DCU once you meet course requirements. You can contact respective programme chairpersons for more information.



*Subject to the specifications as set out in the DES Circular annually.

Please review the Department of Education Circular for 2024



The programme is open to primary and post-primary teachers who are employed in a position that is funded by the Department of Education and who provide Special Education Teaching in recognised primary schools, post-primary schools, and in other recognised educational services. Teachers serving in special schools and special classes are also eligible to apply. The programme provides a qualification that is recognised by the Department of Education for teachers working in the areas of inclusive education, special education and learning support who work in the following roles: Special Education Teacher, Teacher in a Special School, Teacher in a Special Class. Teachers must meet the criteria set out in the relevant DE Circular.

1 year part-time.

This postgraduate qualification may support graduates to enter leadership roles especially those within Inclusive and Special Education.