Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
Course Overview
The programme is offered in partnership with the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and the Special Education Section of the Department of Education and Skills (DES) for registered teachers of students with ASD. The programme will develop teachers knowledge, understanding and skills in working with students with ASD.
Students may exit after year one (two modules) and graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate (Special Educational Needs - Autism Spectrum Disorders) NFQ Level 9.
Students completing the full programme (four modules) will graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma (Special Educational Needs - Autism Spectrum Disorders) NFQ Level 9.
Applications and Selections
An Application Form is contained within Circular 0029/2020 for completion by eligible teachers interested in participating in the programme.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
The programme is for registered teachers who are currently working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or will be working with students with ASD for the duration of the Programme in recognised Primary schools including Special schools and recognised Post-Primary schools. The programme is designed specifically to assist teachers in meeting the learning and teaching needs of students with ASD. Potential applicants must therefore have a teaching role in relation to students with ASD.
Additional Requirements
Duration
Two Years for Postgraduate Diploma
One Year for Postgraduate Certificate
Next start date
Autumn 2021
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
25
Closing Date
NFQ level
Level 9
Mode of study
Blended Learning.
ECTS weighting
Award
Postgraduate Diploma (Special Educational Needs - Autism Spectrum Disorders)
CAO
Course code
Course Outline
Postgraduate Certificate Modules are:
• Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (Core module)
• Assessment, Planning and Curricular Access
or
Teaching Approaches
Postgraduate Diploma Modules are:
• Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Assessment, Planning and Curricular Access
• Teaching Approaches
• Self-Management and Behaviour
Students who successfully complete the Postgraduate Certificate level may progress to the Postgraduate Diploma level. Successful completion of two additional modules together with the necessary course work will lead to an award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs (ASD). The practicum is a compulsory component of both the Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma.
Further Education
Graduates of this programme also have the option to pursue a Master of Arts (Special Educational Needs - Autism Spectrum Didorders) also offered at St. Angela's College, Sligo.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
This specialist qualification enhances graduates to progress in their educational setting. It enables them to effectively meet the needs of students with autism. It provides graduates with the skills necessary to affect whole school collaboration and implement inclusive practice.
Who’s Suited to This Course
Learning Outcomes
Work Placement
Participants of the programme are provided with an opportunity to visit a school setting different from their own for one day to observe the planning and teaching of students with autism.
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
Fees: Tuition
Fees: Student levy
Fees: Non EU
All elements within each module are funded by the Special Education Section of the Department of Education and Skills through the National Council for Special Education.
Applicants will be responsible for payment of a fee of €300 per module and will be invoiced by St. Angela’s College.
Fees can be paid securely through our Online Payment Facility
Find out More
Ms Maxine Gilmartin
Administrator
Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity
Education Department
T: +353(0)71 9195552
E: mgilmartin@stangelas.nuigalway.ie
