Master of Arts (Special Education)
Course Overview
Master of Arts (Special Education) offers a level 9 qualification for all professionals interested in Special Education (SE).
Research methods are critical to successful study at MA level and will incorporate problem-solving activities, action research in professional contexts and the opportunity to link theory and practice in general and in terms of the execution of coursework. Participants accepted onto the Masters stage of the programme will have achieved an increased level of competence and confidence within the Special Education pathway. They will also be looking forward to choosing the area of study for their MA dissertation and beginning to reflect on possible research methodologies for their dissertation. The Advanced Research Module (15 ECTs) will provide students with the opportunity to make and implement informed choices regarding professionally relevant areas of research for their dissertation and to do this with the guidance and support of tutors and peers. Lectures take place at weekends between September and November and students use the remainder of the year to carry out research and draft material for their MA Dissertation.
Applications and Selections
Complete and submit Application Form to the Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity (Education Department) at St. Angela's College.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Successful completion of stage one,
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Applicants require an award of H2.2 or higher in the Postgraduate Diploma in Special Education programme in order to be considered for this MA.
Additional Requirements
Duration
One Year, part-time.
Next start date
Autumn 2020
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
20
Closing Date
NFQ level
Level 9
Mode of study
Blended Learning.
Participants are required to attend up to 4 weekends of lectures between September and November with a further workshop scheduled to take place in January. Weekend lectures consist of sessions from 6:00-9:00pm on Friday evening and sessions from 9.30 – 5pm on Saturdays. At the end of the series of lectures students will be required to submit a Dissertation Proposal in November. A tutor will be assigned to you and once your proposal has been deemed successful you can progress on to the dissertation stage.
ECTS weighting
Award
Master of Arts (Special Education)
CAO
Course code
Course Outline
This MA is considered stage two with a Postgraduate Diploma being completed in stage one, leading to preparation for and completion of a Masters level dissertation.
Stage Two Modules:
- Advanced Research (Core)
- Dissertation (Core)
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Who’s Suited to This Course
Learning Outcomes
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
Fees: Tuition
Fees: Student levy
Fees: Non EU
Fees can be paid securely through our Online Payment Facility
Find out More
Ms Mary Kearns
Senior Administrator
Education Department
T: +353(0)71 9195551/550
E: mkearns@stangelas.nuigalway.ie education@stangelas.nuigalway.ie
What Our Students Say

Carmel Henehan | MA Special Educational Needs
The SEN Postgraduate course for teachers was a well organised, collaborative and engaging course. Lecturers provided an interactive and stimulating environment while providing teachers with knowledge and expertise regarding all aspects of SEN. This included opportunities for knowledge exchange with teachers in the group from all over Ireland and with whom we have maintained a support network. Continuing on into the Masters course was very demanding but well supported by college staff. Set in a spectacular setting overlooking Lough Gill, St. Angela's College is very welcoming. Supportive staff including lecturers, library, admin, technology and the friendly canteen service made this a unique and memorable learning experience.