UNIVERSITY OF EXETER · UNITED KINGDOM
MA Special Educational Needs
Master's · Taught in en · UCAS 1234
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€30k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Top 150 in the world for Education StudiesGlobal Rankings
- 82% of Education research has internationally excellent impactResearch Impact
- Home to one of the largest Education libraries in the UKResources
- Top 150 for Education in Shanghai RankingsSubject Rankings
This MA programme focuses on developing a deep understanding of special educational needs (SEN) and disability, covering policy, practice, and provision within the UK context. You will explore key concepts related to SEN and inclusive education, considering both national and international perspectives. The course encourages critical reflection on your own practice and allows you to investigate educational issues that personally interest you. A significant part of the programme involves research, culminating in a dissertation where you can conduct in-depth study, often involving empirical data collection and analysis, on a chosen area of SEN. Modules cover a range of topics including critical perspectives on inclusion and disability, creativity in education, and education policy. The programme aims to provide a thorough grounding in education research, theory, and practice, equipping you with valuable skills. An optional module, 'Reflecting on Educational Practices', is available to help connect theory with practice and enhance employability. The university also hosts visiting speakers, offering insights from professionals working with children with SEN.
Curriculum
The MA requires completion of 180 credits, typically consisting of 120 credits from taught modules and a 60-credit dissertation. There's flexibility to include accredited prior learning or experience. Modules explore themes such as inclusive education, SEN teaching and learning, and research methods. Optional modules allow for specialization in areas like education for diversity, sociologies of education, or professional placements.
- Year 1
- SoE Success for AllEFPM200
- SEN: Teaching and LearningEFPM270
- Education StudiesEFPM914
- Critical Perspectives on Inclusive EducationEFPM919
- Preparing for Educational Research and DissertationEFPM308
- Dissertation PortfolioEFPM642
- Education for DiversityEFPM375
- Contemporary Sociologies of EducationEFPM376
- Education PlacementEFPM379
- Transdisciplinary Collaborations for Creative FuturesEFPM839
- Creativity in Education: Valuing, Facilitating and Assessing ItEFPM907
Careers
The MA in Special Educational Needs equips graduates with advanced knowledge and skills relevant to various roles within the education sector and beyond. The programme's focus on research, policy, and practice, along with optional modules like the Education Placement, enhances employability.
- Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)
- Educational Psychologist support roles
- Inclusion Officer
- Policy Advisor
- Researcher
- Teacher in specialist settings
- Therapeutic support roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and English language requirements for the MA Special Educational Needs programme?
- You typically need a 2:2 Honours degree or above in a social science or humanities subject, or equivalent qualifications/experience. International students must meet English language requirements, with specific IELTS scores detailed on the university's website.
- What is the tuition fee for international students for the MA Special Educational Needs programme?
- The tuition fee for international students for the 2026/27 academic year is £25,550 per year.
- How is the MA Special Educational Needs programme structured and how long does it take to complete?
- The MA requires 180 credits, usually 120 from taught modules and a 60-credit dissertation. The programme is typically completed over one year of full-time study.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA programme?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), Educational Psychologist support roles, Inclusion Officer, Policy Advisor, Researcher, or teachers in specialist settings.
- How do I apply for the MA Special Educational Needs programme as an international student?
- International applicants can apply online through the University of Exeter's postgraduate application system, selecting the MA Special Educational Needs programme and your preferred intake date. Be prepared to submit academic transcripts, degree certificates, and English language proficiency scores.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students on this programme?
- The University of Exeter offers an Alumni Scholarship providing a 20% reduction on first-year tuition fees for previous University of Exeter graduates undertaking a standalone postgraduate programme.
Entry requirements
Honours degreeA 2:2 Honours degree or above in a social science or humanities subject. Equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience may also be considered.
IELTS (Profile B1)Specific score details available on the University's English language requirements page.
While a specific degree is normally required, the university will consider applicants with equivalent qualifications or relevant professional experience. For certain modules and the research project, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required. International students should check country-specific equivalencies on the university website.
Fees
Tuition (international)£25,550 per year
Tuition (home)£11,000 per year
LivingNot specified
Fees are for the 2026/27 academic year.
How to apply
1. Visit the Application PortalNavigate to the University of Exeter's postgraduate application system.
2. Select Entry Year and ProgrammeChoose your preferred intake date (e.g., September 2026) and the full-time MA Special Educational Needs programme.
3. Complete the Online ApplicationFill in all required personal, academic, and supporting information.
4. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the portal. You may be able to apply for January or September 2026 entry.
Scholarships
University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship20% of first year tuition fees
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and English language requirements for the MA Special Educational Needs programme?
+
You typically need a 2:2 Honours degree or above in a social science or humanities subject, or equivalent qualifications/experience. International students must meet English language requirements, with specific IELTS scores detailed on the university's website.
What is the tuition fee for international students for the MA Special Educational Needs programme?
+
The tuition fee for international students for the 2026/27 academic year is £25,550 per year.
How is the MA Special Educational Needs programme structured and how long does it take to complete?
+
The MA requires 180 credits, usually 120 from taught modules and a 60-credit dissertation. The programme is typically completed over one year of full-time study.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA programme?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), Educational Psychologist support roles, Inclusion Officer, Policy Advisor, Researcher, or teachers in specialist settings.
How do I apply for the MA Special Educational Needs programme as an international student?
+
International applicants can apply online through the University of Exeter's postgraduate application system, selecting the MA Special Educational Needs programme and your preferred intake date. Be prepared to submit academic transcripts, degree certificates, and English language proficiency scores.
Are there any scholarships available for international students on this programme?
+
The University of Exeter offers an Alumni Scholarship providing a 20% reduction on first-year tuition fees for previous University of Exeter graduates undertaking a standalone postgraduate programme.