BA (Hons) SPECIAL EDUCATION

This course will give you a broad and in-depth understanding of current practice, policy and theoretical concepts in the field of Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

It covers the concepts of equal opportunity, inclusion, children’s rights and working in partnership and it will also give you a good understanding of teaching and learning.

You’ll learn about the historical development of special education and about specific areas such as communication and interaction, challenging behaviour, specific learning difficulties and management.

You’ll also explore theoretical perspectives on inclusion and look at actual models of inclusive practice such as the modern-day policy of teaching children with special needs in mainstream schools.

In addition, you’ll learn about educational organisations, the social context of learning and the development of children as learners. We’ll show you how to evaluate the language of special needs in relation to the concepts of equal opportunity, rights and disability.

You’ll also have the chance to look at SEND from an international perspective through modules such as Critical Global Perspective in Special and Inclusive Education, which outlines international agreement, partnerships and thinking.

There’s an increasing demand for skills in Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and 75 per cent of our Special Education graduates go on to work or study in this field.

Of these, 61 per cent go into caring and personal service occupations, while 18 per cent move into professional or managerial positions.

Our teaching team’s strong relationship with local schools, SEND organisations and loyal alumni means you’ll have plenty of contact on the course with potential employers through work placements, mentoring, careers fairs and guest lecturers.

As a graduate of this course you could apply to train as a teacher, for example via a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) course. The University of East London offers PGCEs specialising in SEND in primary education and a number of secondary subjects. Our staff are readily available to support you and give you advice.

Alternatively, you might consider working within the public and private sectors as a teaching assistant in a school, or train as a speech and language therapist, occupational therapist, social worker or in the wider caring industry.

Other postgraduate avenues open to you at UEL include Postgraduate Certificates in Autism Spectrum Conditions and Learning, Understanding and Supporting Behaviour and Special Educational Needs Co-ordination.

Must include passes at A2 in at least two subjects.
Extended Diploma or Diploma
Diploma with 25 points including a minimum of 15 points at Higher Level.