Special and Inclusive Education (Autism) MA

University College London

This MA will develop students' knowledge of special and inclusive education, focusing on autism. Led by the Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), students will be introduced to cutting-edge theory and research, and consider how it links to policy and practice. This MA will appeal to students looking to develop their professional practice and/or progress to doctoral study.

Who this course is for

This programme would appeal to those working within education (e.g., teachers, teaching assistants) who have an interest in working with children, young people or adults with special educational needs and disabilities, particularly those on the autistic spectrum. We particularly welcome those with personal experience of autism (e.g., autistic people, parents/carers).

What this course will give you

This programme provides students with the opportunity to engage with the latest theory and research on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), whilst concurrently specialising in autism. Led by academics from the world-leading Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), together with a team of internationally-recognised tutors (researchers, academics, and professionals) from the Department of Psychology and Human Development (PHD), students will benefit from a cutting-edge programme of taught sessions, independent activities and group/individual assessments; all of which will deepen their knowledge, challenge their thinking and enhance their employability. London offers a rich and diverse population so students can

Students on this MA benefit from a rigorous academic programme. Critical engagement with current research and evidence-informed practice on special and inclusive education (focused on autism) provides a thorough grounding for those new to the field. It also challenges the thinking and deepens the knowledge of those with prior (academic, personal or professional) experience in special and inclusive education and/or autism. Input from a broad range of experts (including autistic people, their parents and their educators) ensures strong relevance to practice and the crucial inclusion of insider expertise.

The foundation of your career

Students on this programme can broaden their career horizons within the educational settings in which they work (if applicable) and/or develop skills that can be used in a wide range of careers (within or outside the field of special education). Students will also develop skills in the areas of: personal and time management; oral and written communication; collaborative working; computing and IT; critical and adaptive thinking; problem solving; research and inquiry.

Employability

Graduates could seek future employment in a broad range of areas, for example: senior leaders in mainstream schools, special schools, or other educational settings; and/or directly supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including those on the autistic spectrum. Graduates may follow pathways within specialist services for children and young people with SEND or SEND charities, including those specialising in autism. Graduates may choose to pursue a research pathway and/or work in Higher Education, or in government and/or policymaking positions, or as consultants.