Program Overview

---

MA Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

Why study this course

Develop your own interests, and explore the complexities and challenges related to SEND

Study your way with our three flexible study modes that fit your lifestyle.

The programme is suited to those with interests in SEND within a wide variety of contexts; education, social and care, and is relevant to practice across different age ranges in SEND.

Course summary

Our MA Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is designed to reflect the interests and ambitions of graduates and practitioners engaged in the complexities and challenges related to SEND. Available in three study modes—full-time (1 year), part-time blended (2 years), and part-time online (2 years)—this programme allows you to explore, analyse and critique ideology, pedagogy and sociological frameworks concerning inclusive and specialist education. You'll develop systematic understanding of knowledge related to SEND theory and practice, promoting competence and confidence in reflective practice, decision making in complex situations, and conducting independent research. The programme encourages sharing of experience and encourages reflection and contributions. With a strong focus upon creating change, challenging your thinking and understandings.

Whether you are currently in a professional setting or preparing for future roles across various contexts including education, social care, and health, the programme supports both practical application and the development of insights that can inform and shape your future practice.

Key facts

• Award: MA
• Duration: 1 or 2 years
• Mode of study: Full time, Part time
• Start date: September 2025
• Award: Bishop Grosseteste University
• Institution code: B38

About this course

This master's programme develops your in-depth knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to current and changing SEND practice. You'll investigate different social and educational contexts while building advanced understanding of key issues in the sector.

Full-time students will complete five modules over one year: two modules in your first trimester focusing on vision, practice, policy and understanding specific special educational needs; two modules in your second trimester covering pastoral and welfare needs and research skills; and a final research project in your third trimester.

Part-time blended students study over two years, combining three on-campus MA Weekends each year (held in October, February, and June, typically on a Friday evening and Saturday) with online learning.

In your first year you will take one module per trimester starting with a core module on vision, practice and policy, followed by two optional modules tailored to your interests. In Year 2, you will begin with a core module on research skills, then carry out your own research project across Trimesters 2 and 3.

Part-time online students study over two years, with 100% online delivery designed to offer maximum flexibility. The learning is largely asynchronous, allowing you to study at times that suit your schedule. This study mode is ideal for practitioners in full-time employment, including those who are working outside of the UK.

In your first year you will take one module per trimester starting with a core module on vision, practice and policy, followed by two optional modules tailored to your interests. In Year 2, you will begin with a core module on research skills, then carry out your own research project across Trimesters 2 and 3.

What you will study

Students on this course currently study some or all of the following modules:

• Course modules
  • Vision, Practice and Policy: Shaping the future
  • Understanding Specific Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
  • Raising Achievement: Meeting the Pastoral and Welfare Needs of Children and Young Adults with SEND
  • Research Skills
  • Research Project

Entry requirements

Entry to the MA SEND programmes typically requires a second-class degree (2:2 or above) in a relevant subject.

We assess each application individually, recognising that academic potential can be demonstrated through various professional and educational backgrounds. We value diverse professional backgrounds and recognise that valuable skills can be developed through various pathways.

For international applicants, English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each component.

Full-time students are not required to undertake work-related learning. Part-time blended and part-time online students are expected to hold a professional role (paid or voluntary) within an educational setting for the duration of the course, typically 5 hours a week.

How you will be taught

Teaching methods vary across the three study modes and are designed to accommodate different learning needs. To support this, teaching methods vary across the three study modes, designed to accommodate different learning needs:

Full-time students will be fully engaged in a dynamic learning environment with our campus-based sessions. You will be encouraged to connect theory to real-world situations by reflecting on your own experiences, perspectives, and learning context. This reflective approach will deepen your understanding and ensure your learning remains meaningful and relevant to your professional development.

Learning takes place through a variety of activities, including lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. You will take part in discussions with peers and tutors, complete independent tasks relevant to a range of topics, and receive individual supervision for your research project. Each module includes assignment workshops and tutorials where you can ask questions and receive guidance on your work.

Part-time blended students

During MA Weekends, you will take part in taught sessions, peer networking, and academic support activities. Between weekends, you will engage with online learning through the virtual learning environment, accessing pre-recorded materials, visual presentations, recommended readings, and interactive tasks. You will also have online or in-person tutorials to discuss assignments and receive feedback.

Throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to apply theory to practice by reflecting on your own professional experience and context. This reflective approach helps deepen your understanding and ensures your learning remains relevant and impactful.

Part-time online students

Throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to apply theory to practice by reflecting on your own professional experience and context. This reflective approach helps deepen your understanding and ensures your learning remains relevant and impactful.

The interactive design of the course supports meaningful engagement with learning materials and encourages collaboration with peers from a wide range of educational settings and contexts. Learning materials include pre-recorded materials, visual presentations, recommended readings, and interactive tasks. You will also benefit from regular opportunities for personalised support, through Q&A opportunities, assignment webinars, and online tutorials. While most activities are asynchronous, occasional synchronous sessions help build connections and maintain a positive learning community.

Assessment

All delivery modes use similar assessment approaches, offering varied ways to demonstrate your skills, knowledge and understanding. Each assignment typically contains at least two related tasks, allowing you to meet learning outcomes while developing various academic skills. The different types of assessment include:

• Portfolios
• Presentations with Q&A sessions
• Research method evaluations
• Dissertations based on independent research projects

You will receive formative feedback during each module via tutorials, which will guide your development and allow you to refine your work before final submission.

Assessment deadlines are timed to coincide with academic holiday periods (January/May/August), making the workload more manageable for those with personal and professional commitments.

Careers & Further study

There is growing demand for professionals with expertise in supporting children and young adults with SEND. By completing our MA SEND, you'll be better positioned to apply for such posts, demonstrating a range of skills which will support learners with SEND in various settings. The qualification is particularly valuable for those working in educational environments but also benefits professionals in social care, health, and voluntary sector roles.

Throughout the programme, you'll develop transferable skills including critical analysis, research competence, reflective practice, and decision-making in complex situations. You'll gain confidence in creating positive change and addressing challenges systematically and creatively.

This MA also provides an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue further academic qualifications, such as the EdD (Doctor of Education) or PhD programmes.

Support

Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience. Whether you are on campus or studying online, you will be part of a friendly and supportive community where meaningful connections matter. You will get to know staff personally and feel confident reaching out for help and advice. No matter how you study, you will benefit from regular interaction with staff who recognise and value you as an individual with unique talents and interests.

We will be there to support you, personally and academically, from induction to graduation.

Fees & Funding

A lot of student finance information is available from numerous sources, but it is sometimes confusing and contradictory. That’s why at BGU we try to give you all the information and support we can to help you throughout the process. Our Student Advice team are experts in helping you sort out the funding arrangements for your studies, offering a range of services to guide you through all aspects of student finance step by step.

Click here to find information about fees, loans and support which will help to make the whole process a little easier to understand.