This programme is open to primary and post-primary teachers who provide special education teaching, teachers in special schools and classes, and special education teachers in further education and alternative settings.*
Youll gain an understanding of important principles and concepts of inclusion and special education, and learn more about short and long-term planning and inclusive pedagogies and teaching practices. Youll also explore the role of effective collaboration and leadership for inclusion in your school setting.
Grow your knowledge, skills and competencies
Fully funded by the Department of Education (including substitution where required), the course offers a hybrid study format with on-campus and online learning. Youll also get the opportunity to observe practice in other educational settings to give you an insight into special educational provisions different to your own.
On completion, youll be eligible to apply for certain Masters programmes within DCU once you meet course requirements. You can contact respective programme chairpersons for more information.
*Subject to the specifications as set out in the DES Circular annually.
| Course Location | Glasnevin, Dublin |
| Location Postcode | Dublin 9 |
| Course Type | Blended Learning - Mix of Classroom & Online |
| Course Qualification | Diploma |
| Awarding Body | Dublin City University |
| Course Duration | 1 year part-time |
| Course Fee | EU Status Fee Part-time DES Funded |
| Entry Requirements | Please review the Department of Education Circular for 2025 here in English and 2025. The 2025 Irish version will be available shortly, the 2024 verion is available for reference here. Please ensure you do not use the form at the end of the Circular to apply, all applications to DCU must be made via the online portal, which can be found under the How to Apply tab. The programme is open to primary and post-primary teachers who are employed in a position that is funded by the Department of Education and who provide Special Education Teaching in recognised primary schools, post-primary schools, and in other recognised educational services. Teachers serving in special schools and special classes are also eligible to apply. The programme provides a qualification that is recognised by the Department of Education for teachers working in the areas of inclusive education, special education and learning support who work in the following roles: Special Education Teacher, Teacher in a Special School, Teacher in a Special Class. Teachers must meet the criteria set out in the relevant DE Circular. |
| Career Path | This postgraduate qualification may support graduates to enter leadership roles especially those within Inclusive and Special Education. |
The Masters in Arts Education Practice (MEd AEP) is an innovative new programme for teachers, artists and arts education advocates which takes a progressive approach to arts-based education and values a transdisciplinary approach while honouring the distinct nature of each practice.
During this two-year course, youll discover how to empower, motivate and engage children.
This two-year, full-time programme encourages a student-centred and creative approach to teaching and learning, and gives you the skills and knowledge needed for todays classrooms.
