MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BA Hons Education, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This four-year program, including a mandatory placement year, offers a blend of academic rigor and practical, real-world experience. Students are encouraged to develop a broad understanding of education in its various forms, while also specializing in inclusion and special educational needs. The course is designed to be interactive, with a focus on discussions, group tasks, case studies, and scenarios, allowing students to actively engage with the material and develop their own informed perspectives. A central tenet of the program is the examination of global issues like climate change, inequality, migration, and disability, and their impact on education, fostering an understanding of the interconnectedness of education and social justice.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience. Early modules introduce foundational concepts in education, psychology in context, human development, and the principles of working in educational settings. As students progress, they delve into more specialized areas such as social and emotional development in education, overcoming barriers to progress, and contemporary issues in education. Modules like "Education and Society around the World" and "Education in an Ethnically Diverse Society" broaden the global perspective. A key component is the "Introduction to Researching Education" module, which equips students with the skills to critically analyze existing research and conduct their own small-scale research projects. Optional modules allow for further specialization based on individual interests and career aspirations. The placement year provides a structured opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting, gaining valuable experience and building a professional network.
Research Focus: The program encourages a research-informed approach to education. Students develop skills in interpreting educational research and are prepared to undertake their own independent research in their final year through a dissertation or capstone project. This focus on research ensures that graduates are not only aware of current best practices but also capable of contributing to the knowledge base in the field of education and inclusion. The curriculum examines various theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches to research, particularly in the context of Special Educational Needs, Disabilities and Inclusion (SENDI).
Industry Engagement: A significant strength of this program lies in its strong industry engagement. The University of Gloucestershire has an extensive network of over 400 schools in Gloucestershire and beyond, providing a wide range of placement and volunteering opportunities for students. These placements allow students to gain real-world experience in diverse educational settings, including mainstream schools, special schools, children's centers, assessment centers, further education colleges, and youth centers. This practical experience is crucial for developing professional skills, building a CV, and exploring potential career paths. The university actively supports students in identifying and securing placements that align with their interests and career goals.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Education, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs program incorporates a global perspective by examining education in various cultural and social contexts around the world. Modules such as "Education and Society around the World" and "Education in an Ethnically Diverse Society" encourage students to consider the impact of internationalization and globalization on education and to appreciate the need for inclusive and adaptable strategies to meet diverse learning needs across different cultures. The program also aims to foster an understanding of human rights and equality in the context of inclusion, drawing upon international practices and ideologies.
Location
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Graduates of the University of Gloucestershire's BA (Hons) Education, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs (with Placement Year) are well-equipped for a diverse range of careers within the education sector and beyond, where an understanding of inclusive practices and individual needs is highly valued. The program's emphasis on theory, practical experience, and the development of a personal philosophy prepares graduates for roles where they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, young people, and their families.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teacher: A primary career path for many graduates. With further teacher training (such as a PGCE), graduates can qualify to teach in mainstream schools, special schools, or pupil referral units, providing specialized support and adapted teaching methods to students with a range of learning differences. They work directly with students, plan and deliver lessons, and collaborate with other professionals and parents.
Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo): For experienced teachers with a postgraduate qualification in SEN, the role of a SENCo involves leading and managing the special educational needs provision within a school. This strategic role includes developing and implementing the school's SEN policy, coordinating support for students with SEN, and working closely with parents, teachers, and external agencies.
Learning Mentor: Working in schools or other educational settings, Learning Mentors provide one-to-one or small-group support to students facing barriers to learning, which may include social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. They help students develop the skills and confidence to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Education Consultant: Graduates with a strong understanding of educational policy and practice can work as Education Consultants, advising schools, local authorities, or other organizations on improving educational outcomes and inclusive practices. They may specialize in a particular area of education, such as SEN or curriculum development.
Community Education Officer: These professionals work to promote learning and development opportunities within a local community. They may work with a range of groups, including children, young people, and adults, and may be involved in designing and delivering educational programs, coordinating community projects, and working in partnership with local organizations.
Family Support Worker: Drawing on their understanding of child development and family dynamics, graduates can work as Family Support Workers, providing practical and emotional support to families facing a range of challenges. They may work for local authorities, charities, or other organizations, and their work may involve supporting parents with parenting skills, accessing services, and promoting the well-being of children.
Disability and Inclusion Advisor: Graduates can work to promote the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in various settings, including education, employment, and community life. They may work for disability organizations, local authorities, or other organizations, providing advice and support on accessibility, reasonable adjustments, and inclusive practices.
Charity Worker: Many charities focus on supporting children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities. Graduates can work in a variety of roles within these organizations, such as project officers, support workers, or fundraisers, contributing to the charity's mission to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals.
Educational Psychologist (with further training): While the undergraduate degree provides a strong foundation in psychology in an educational context, to become a qualified Educational Psychologist, graduates would need to complete a postgraduate qualification, such as a Master's or Doctorate in Educational Psychology. These professionals work with children and young people who are experiencing learning, social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties, conducting assessments and providing interventions to support their development.
Further Study and Academic Research: The BA (Hons) degree provides a solid foundation for further academic study. Graduates may choose to pursue a Master's degree in education, special education, social work, or a related field, or even a PhD, leading to careers in research, academia, or specialist roles requiring advanced qualifications. This allows for even greater specialization and the opportunity to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field.
