7 Best Special Education Master's Degree Programs in United Kingdom for 2024

As contemporary societies become more heterogeneous, and as inclusive education reforms gain currency across the world, educational systems are being challenged to address some fundamental questions about teaching and learning related to the accommodation of and respect for difference. Underpinning the movement for inclusion is a concern for social justice and wellbeing. Meeting the diverse needs of learners within today's schools, colleges and universities are one of the most challenging and important tasks facing education today. This thoroughly revised Master's degree is unique not only because of the disciplinary approaches it employs but also because students study and applies an approach to wellbeing that has been developed by some of the world’s leading thinkers. This is an approach that is internationally recognised by, for example, the UN, and whose principles are increasingly found in government policy on education and SEN, namely the Capability Approach. We are one of the very few institutions in the UK to offer this practical and ethical approach to assessing issues of SEN, equality and inclusion. The skills you will develop include critical thinking skills and how best to be an inclusive practitioner. Importantly, this is a professionally based degree which means that you will apply what you have learned to your own professional practice whether you are a classroom assistant, SENCO or university lecturer.

This programme was developed in consultation with the education, health and social care, and voluntary sectors, as well as individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and is designed to facilitate the professional development of teachers and other related professionals who work, or wish to work, in this area.

The MA in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) is designed to reflect the interests and ambitions of graduates and practitioners engaged in complexities and challenges related to SEND. The programme offers opportunities to explore, analyse and critique ideology, pedagogy and sociological frameworks concerning inclusive and specialist education.

On the MA Inclusion (Special Educational Needs) specialist pathway, you will develop the key skills and expertise required to meet the needs of those working directly or indirectly with children with disabilities. On this specialist pathway you develop an overarching understanding of educational inclusion and SEND and associated policies. You will examine the frameworks for evaluating policies and practice and you will explore the socio-cultural conceptualisations of disability and SEND practice in a global context. You will also be introduced to different SEND groupings (as conceptualised in many educational systems).

As contemporary societies become more heterogeneous and as inclusive education reforms gain currency across the world, educational systems are being challenged to address some fundamental questions about teaching and learning related to the accommodation of and respect for difference.

A unique course giving you an in-depth understanding of autism research. It combines teaching in psychological research methods with hands-on experience.

This programme was developed in consultation with the education, health and social care, and voluntary sectors, as well as individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and is designed to facilitate the professional development of teachers and other related professionals who work, or wish to work, in this area.