Special Educational Needs

This programme gives you the skills and knowledge to critically investigate the system of inclusive education through an individual research project.



During this part-time, blended learning programme, you’ll learn about research methodologies such as questionnaires, interviews, single-case experimental design, observation and more. You’ll also take part in workshops on data analysis such as qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative data analysis using SPSS software.



Enrol in a one-of-a-kind course to propel your career

The programme is open to qualified, experienced teachers working in primary and post-primary schools, special schools or recognised educational centres. To apply, you must have completed a recognised 60-credit postgraduate diploma programme for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education.



Once you graduate, you can pursue roles in inclusion and special education teaching or you may consider posts in government agencies and departments. You’ll also have the skills and expertise to take on leadership and professional development positions.



tudents will have the opportunity to learn how to deal with a number of research methodologies including questionnaires, interviews, single-case experimental design, observation, and more. There will be workshops on data analysis including qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative data analysis using SPSS software.



Applicants for entry to MEdEN Year Two must have completed the Department of Education funded 60 credit postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education at DCU.



Year Two Entry

Successful applicants who have completed the Department of Education-funded postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education at DCU will be required to complete an additional 30 credits for the award of MEdEN.



The 30 credits are normally completed within one academic year and comprise one 10 credit module and a 20 credit thesis.



The 10 credit module focuses on research methodologies and is assessed on a pass/fail basis.



Students will also complete a 20 credit thesis on an approved topic relating to inclusive and special education. The year comprises two Saturdays on campus, online lectures and self-guided materials online.



Saturdays

Face-to-face lecture



Online Lectures

These normally take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings between September and December. A small number of online sessions will be scheduled in semester 2.

Open to qualified experienced teachers working in primary and post-primary schools, in special schools or classes or in other recognised educational centres.

• Eligible applicants will have at least three years' teaching experience



There is no Year 1 entry for this programme



Applicants for entry to MEdEN Year Two must have completed the Department of Education funded 60 credit postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education at DCU.



There is no Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) route for this programme.

2 years part-time, blended programme.

Graduates will develop the skills and knowledge to contribute to and lead the development of a culture of critical analysis, research, and innovative practice in inclusive and special education and so have a formative impact on development within schools, workplaces and the broader education community.



The programme will be of interest to teachers who wish to take on a leadership role in relation to inclusive pedagogy within their schools and school areas.



Many graduates of the MEdEN have also moved into leadership and professional development roles within other relevant educational contexts.



Areas of opportunities include:



Education

Government agencies

Government departments

Post-primary education

Post-primary schools

Pre-school

Primary schools