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Master of Education in Autism

Course ID: 191554
Dublin City University (DCU)
Dublin
2 years part-time
Course Fee

Course Content

During this two-year, part-time programme, youll learn more about the neurodiversity paradigm. Youll also gain a better understanding of neurology and the autistic experience. Furthermore, youll study evidence-based approaches to inclusive education, and explore the strengths and characteristics of autistic pupils.

Benefit from practical and theoretical study
This flexible course is delivered in-person and online to facilitate working teachers. As well as core modules, youll complete two teaching practice visits to help you see what youve learned put into practice. Youll also master relevant research methods and submit a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Once you graduate, youll have the skills and knowledge to pursue special education teacher roles or lead inclusive education programmes for autistic pupils.

For more information, you can read this Department of Health report on Estimating Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the Irish Population: A review of data sources and epidemiological studies (2018)

Course Details

Course LocationGlasnevin, Dublin
Location PostcodeDublin 9
Course CategoryProfessional Master’s of Education, Education & Teaching
Course TypeBlended Learning - Mix of Classroom & Online
Course QualificationMasters Degree
Awarding BodyDublin City University
Course Duration2 years part-time
Entry RequirementsThe Master of Education in Autism (MEdA) programme is being offered as a two-year level 9 blended Master level programme open to teachers working in primary and post-primary schools, or in special schools or classes. Participants will be eligible to apply who hold a Level 8 qualification in education, at minimum H2.2 and be registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland (or its equivalent in other jurisdictions). Additionally, participants must also be working with pupils on the autism spectrum for the duration of their enrolment on the MEdA. Standard entry procedures for international applicants and for applicants with disabilities apply.

Applicants should meet the minimum entry criteria outlined above and will be interviewed to assess their application. Each interview will be scored according to a predetermined criterion, with places being offered to those with the highest scores.

Direct Entry into Year 2

Graduates of two DCU accredited postgraduate qualifications may be considered to enter the 2nd year of the MEdA. These are;
- The Graduate Certificate in the Education of Pupils on the Autism Spectrum (GCEAS), and
- The Graduate Diploma in Inclusive Education, Learning Support and Special Education (GDILS). Selection criteria may apply to all candidates.
Career PathThis programme will be of interest to educators seeking to hold special education teacher roles or to lead inclusive education provision for autistic pupils across whole school systems.

The number of students on the autism spectrum within the Irish education system increased 83% in the years between 2011 and 2018 (Cambell at al. 2017) and inclusive education provision to diverse groups of young people is the reality in an increasing number of mainstream schools.

This programme supports graduates to learn the skills to work effectively and lead within collaborative whole school settings, student-support teams, and work effectively with colleagues in fostering inclusive practice.

Career Areas
The programme will be of particular interest to:

Teachers with a post-of-responsibility for special educational needs provision in schools at primary level, post primary level and in adult education settings
Teachers working in special class settings for autistic pupils in mainstream schools
Teachers working in special schools who work with autistic pupils
Teachers who wish to further develop their expertise in the education of autistic pupils in relation to content knowledge and research-informed approaches to evidence informed teaching

Course Provider

Dublin City University (DCU)

Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland

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