Special and Inclusive Education (Specific Learning Difficulties) MA

This programme would appeal to those working within education (e.g., teachers, teaching assistants) who have an interest in working with children, young people or adults with special educational needs and disabilities. We particularly welcome those with personal experience of SEND (e.g., family members, individuals with disabilities, including dyslexia).

This unique programme provides students with the opportunity to engage with the latest theory and research on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), whilst specialising in Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia)/literacy difficulties. Led by academics from the internationally recognised UCL Centre for Inclusive Education (CIE); together with a team of world leading tutors (researchers, academics, and professionals) from the Department of Psychology and Human Development (PHD), students will benefit from a cutting-edge programme of taught sessions, independent activities and group/individual assessments; all of which will deepen their knowledge, challenge their thinking and enhance their employability or current workplace practice. London offers a rich and diverse population so students can focus on neurodiversity within a wide range of communities and study at IOE, UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society, which is repeatedly ranked #1 in the world for education (QS World University Rankings by subject).

Students choosing this MA benefit from a rigorous academic programme. Critical engagement with current research and evidence-informed practice on special and inclusive education (focusing on Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia)/literacy difficulties) provides a thorough grounding for those new to the field. It also challenges the thinking and deepens the knowledge of those with prior (academic, personal or professional) experience in special and inclusive education and/or Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia)/literacy difficulties. Input from a broad range of experts ensures strong relevance to practice. This highly regarded course will hugely benefit any educational setting, as well as the individual student We strongly encourage students as alumni to maintain links and engage in future research projects.

The MA programme is designed for national and international students with rich and varied professional and/or personal experiences; offering valuable opportunities for networking and collaborative learning. The programme would also be suitable for less experienced applicants hoping to develop new skills and knowledge for future careers in the field.

At the end of the programme, students are encouraged to join our Professional Learning Networks (PLNs); to continue their personal and professional development and to provide further opportunities for peer-to-peer learning alongside fellow alumni. This programme, alongside the diverse range of events and initiatives provided by PHD, IOE and UCL and our centres of excellence (such as the Centre for Inclusive Education), offers a transformative experience for students interested in special and inclusive education and/or Specific Learning Difficulties (dyslexia)/literacy difficulties.