Special Educational Needs

Introduction
The Masters in Special Educational Needs (MSEN) is a blended programme open to qualified experienced teachers working in primary and post-primary schools, in special schools or classes or in other recognised educational centres. The aim of the programme is to develop teachers' knowledge and skills in analysing, critiquing and applying research literature in the area of special and inclusive education and in carrying out research relevant to children and young people with learning difficulties, additional support, or special educational needs.

Applicants must have successfully completed a recognised 60 credit postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education. Selection criteria may apply to all candidates.

A qualification of Masters in Special Educational Needs will be awarded to successful course participants by Dublin City University.

Programme
Year Two Entry:
Successful applicants who have completed a recognised postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education will be required to complete an additional 60 credits for the award of MSEN. The 60 credits are normally completed within one academic year and comprise two 15 credit modules and a 30 credit thesis. Module SI801 focuses on research methodologies and Module SI802 addresses curriculum and pedagogy and current issues in inclusive and special education. Students will also complete a 30 credit thesis on an approved topic relating to inclusive and special education. The year usually comprises a week's summer course, online lectures, and a small number of face-to-face lectures on campus.

Applicants should note that they will be required to submit two formative assessment requirements at the end of August and so will need to be in a position to factor in some time during the Summer vacation for the completion of these requirements.

Summer School
In 2021/22, Year two will commence with a Summer School in July, dates TBC.

Saturdays
2021/22 face-to-face lecture dates TBC.

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

Course Life
Dublin City University is widely recognised as a dynamic and innovative institution that is distinguished both by the quality and impact of its graduates and by its focus on the translation of knowledge into societal and economic benefit. Excellence in education and research activities has led to DCU's ranking in the top 1.5% of universities globally. In a foreword to the Strategic Plan, 2017-2022 Talent, Discovery and Transformation, Chancellor Dr. Martin McAleese notes that DCU's "responsibility to the coming generations is realised in the massive investment we have made in creating Ireland's first Faculty of Education. Our graduate teachers will be world-class and their pupils will receive the gift of a wonderful life-enhancing education, the single most important basic investment any society can make"

The DCU Institute of Education is the newest faculty of Dublin City University. Established through the incorporation of St Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Mater Dei Institute of Education, Church of Ireland College of Education and the DCU School of Education Studies, With a staff of more than 125 full-time academics and a student body in excess of 4,000, DCU Institute of Education is a recognised centre of excellence in teacher education nationally and internationally, and has a distinguished record in providing continuing professional development offering a range of taught and research programmes to masters and doctoral level.

DCU facilities at St Patrick's Campus are first class. Online learning facilities draw from the most up-to-date technologies whilst employing innovative teaching and learning methods. Students have access to two extensive libraries that include a vast array of educational resources and diverse study spaces for both collaborative and independent work. Remote access to journals and Ebooks enable and enhance study at a distance.

To view the current course structure, please visit the Provider's website.

Requirements

General Entry Requirements
The Masters in Special Educational Needs (MSEN) is a blended programme 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 MSEN Year Two must have completed a recognised 60 credit postgraduate diploma programme of continuing professional development for teachers involved in learning support, inclusive or special education.

NEXT STEPS

Make an Application
Year 2 Entry

Apply online using the Application Form (see "Application Weblink" below.

Applications close 27th May 2022.

2 years part-time.

Career Areas
Education
Government Agencies
Government Departments
Post Primary Education
Post Primary Schools
Pre School
Primary Schools

The Masters in Special Educational Needs is designed to meet the professional and personal needs of teachers seeking to acquire deep expertise in the area of inclusive and special education. The programme offers participants the opportunity to develop deep understanding of and critique theories and practices relating to inclusive and special education in light of current research and professional experience. 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 MSEN have also moved into leadership and professional development roles within other relevant educational contexts.