MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement
The MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement program at Canterbury Christ Church Uni...
MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion
Canterbury
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion program at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), United Kingdom, offers a comprehensive and critical exploration of theory, practice, and policy within the whole-of-life special needs sector. Designed to meet the growing need for skilled professionals, this postgraduate degree prepares individuals to become more effective practitioners across various fields, including social care, healthcare, education, and technological support, addressing needs from before birth through to adulthood. The course fosters rigorous and critical development by examining the interfaces between different social agencies and the complexities of supporting individuals with special needs throughout their lifespan. It serves as a significant stepping stone for those aspiring to professional leadership responsibilities or further doctoral studies, enabling them to advocate for a more inclusive society.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion is meticulously designed to support a deep and critical understanding of contemporary issues and challenges in the field. Students engage with both established and emerging theories, critically examining the evidence-base that informs professional development and organizational improvement within the special needs sector. While specific module titles may vary, the program’s core focus is on exploring theoretical frameworks, practical applications, and policy contexts relevant to individuals with special needs. This often involves a multidisciplinary approach, considering perspectives from psychology, sociology, and education policy. A significant component of the MA is typically a substantial independent research project or dissertation, allowing students to delve into a specialized area of interest, applying their acquired knowledge and critical analysis skills to an academic or practice-based inquiry. Learning is supported through a blend of face-to-face sessions, online resources, and independent study, fostering reflective practice and problem-solving abilities.
Research Focus: Canterbury Christ Church University's School of Childhood and Education Sciences, home to the MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion, maintains an active research profile that directly enriches the program. The course itself is designed to support rigorous and critical development through the exploration of theory, practice, and policy, encouraging students to engage with research findings to inform their professional development and organizational improvement. Faculty members are often engaged in research concerning various aspects of SEN and inclusion, exploring issues such as inclusive practices in schools, the role of virtual reality in special education, and broader discussions on inequality within educational systems. This research-led approach ensures that students are exposed to current debates and contribute to new knowledge, particularly through their dissertation project, where they undertake independent inquiry within their chosen specialization.
Industry Engagement: The MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion program at CCCU is inherently designed to enhance professional practice, signifying a strong link to the industry. The course aims to meet the increasing demand for professionals equipped with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to work across diverse fields and throughout the lifespan of individuals with special needs. It explicitly explores the interfaces between theory, practice, and policy across various social agencies such as social care, healthcare, and education, implicitly fostering engagement with these sectors. The program supports students in becoming more effective practitioners, which suggests an emphasis on applying academic learning to real-world contexts. While specific formal placements are not explicitly detailed, the program's focus on professional development and its relevance to those currently working in or aspiring to leadership roles within the special needs sector indicate strong connections with relevant professional communities.
Global Perspective: The MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion program at Canterbury Christ Church University adopts a clear global perspective, recognizing that issues and practices in SEN are influenced by both local, national, and international contexts. The curriculum is designed to help students analyze concepts that contribute towards the fight for inclusivity for those with SEN, acknowledging that this often involves complex and unpredictable circumstances. By engaging with established and emerging theory, students are encouraged to consider diverse global perspectives on inclusion and special educational needs. The university's overall mission to shape courses and research around critical social issues, nationally and globally, along with a diverse student body that includes international students, further enriches the program with a broad range of cultural insights and approaches to inclusive practice.
Location
Canterbury
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 15500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 60.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses, enabling students to focus on their studies and make the most of their university experience.
International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students based on their academic performance and achievements. It provides a significant discount on tuition fees, making it more affordable for high-achieving students from abroad to study at CCCU.
Global Students Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at supporting international students who demonstrate excellent potential and their studies. It offers a percentage reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Postgraduate International Scholarship: For postgraduate students, CCCU offers specific scholarships that provide financial assistance for those pursuing a master’s or doctoral program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and provide an opportunity for international students to study in the UK at a reduced cost.
Graduates of the MA Special Educational Needs and Inclusion program from Canterbury Christ Church University are exceptionally well-prepared for a wide array of rewarding careers within education, social care, and the voluntary sectors. This postgraduate degree equips individuals with a deep understanding of inclusive practices, policy, and the diverse needs of individuals across the lifespan, making them highly sought-after specialists. The program's emphasis on critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and interagency collaboration ensures that alumni are adept at addressing complex challenges and driving positive change in various professional contexts.
Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO): A key role in mainstream schools, leading and coordinating support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring legal compliance, and liaising with parents and external professionals.
Specialist Teacher (SEN/Inclusion): Working directly with children and young people with diverse learning needs in mainstream or special schools, developing tailored learning programs and employing specialized teaching strategies.
Educational Psychologist: After further professional training (Doctorate in Educational Psychology), assessing children and young people with learning, social, or emotional difficulties, providing advice and intervention strategies to schools and families.
Inclusion Manager/Lead: Overseeing inclusive practices and policies within educational institutions or organizations to ensure equitable access and opportunities for all learners, including those with SEND.
Disability Support Officer/Advisor: Providing guidance and support to individuals with disabilities in various settings, such as universities, colleges, or community organizations, helping them access services, accommodations, and achieve their potential.
Local Authority SEND Officer/Caseworker: Working for local councils to manage Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), coordinate support services, and ensure legal compliance for children and young people with SEND.
Learning Mentor/Support Worker: Providing one-to-one or small group support to students with SEN in educational settings, helping them overcome barriers to learning, develop social skills, and manage their emotional well-being.
SEND Consultant/Trainer: Offering expert advice and professional development to schools, local authorities, or other organizations on best practices in SEN and inclusion, policy implementation, and staff training.
Charity/Non-Profit Project Manager (Disability/Inclusion): Working for charities focused on disability or special needs, developing and managing projects, advocacy campaigns, or support services for individuals and their families.
Researcher/Lecturer (Higher Education): Pursuing a career in academia, conducting research in special educational needs and inclusion, and teaching related subjects at university level, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field.
