University of Chester United Kingdom

Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

The Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) MA at the University of Chester is your pathway to becoming an advanced practitioner and leader in special education. This postgraduate degree is designed for those passionate about addressing the evolving needs within the special education agenda, offering a flexible structure that allows you to tailor your learning. You will engage with specialist modules in areas such as autism, dyslexia, and trauma-informed practice, enabling you to deepen your expertise in specific fields relevant to your professional context. This MA empowers you to make a significant impact in supporting diverse learners.

You will study this Masters Degree full-time on campus over one year, with the flexibility to select modules that align with your professional development goals. The curriculum includes compulsory elements like a dissertation, allowing you to conduct in-depth research on a SEND topic of your choice, alongside a wide array of optional modules. You will develop critical skills in pedagogical models, practitioner enquiry, and leading SEND provision. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for leadership roles in educational settings, policy development, or specialist advisory positions within the SEND field.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program explores the multifaceted field of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). Students will delve into the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of supporting learners with diverse needs, including autism and dyslexia. The curriculum emphasizes developing essential skills for assessment, intervention, and effective pedagogical strategies, alongside fostering positive learning environments and understanding the broader issues impacting SEND provision.

1 Year 1 / Semester 1

Dissertation Compulsory
Origins and theory of autism Optional
Pedagogical models of working with autism Optional
Practitioner enquiry Optional
The Wider Issues of Autism Optional
Identifying and Assessing Learners with Dyslexia Optional
Learning and Teaching Strategies for Learners with Dyslexia Optional
Teaching Learners with Dyslexia Optional
Specialist Assessor in Assessing for Access Arrangements Optional
Emotions and Attachment in Learning Relationships Optional
Promoting and managing positive learner behaviour Optional
ACES Trauma Informed Practice Optional
Mental Health and Resilience in Learning Optional
Professional SEND Knowledge and Understanding Optional
Leading and Managing SEND Provision Optional
Collaborative Working Optional
Negotiated Study 1 Optional
Negotiated Study 2 Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 20,951.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 4,028.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 1,450.00 - USD 2,417.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 3,222.00
Estimated Total USD 7,089.00 - USD 12,083.00

Living cost estimates are based on Exton Park campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducational Support ServicesHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Leonard Cheshire

NHS

Pearson

Teach First

University of Chester

University of Salford

Why Study Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) MA at University of Chester

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Life at University of Chester in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) MA at University of Chester

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for this degree course.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To qualify for the SEND MA, you need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with specific minimum scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Alternatively, a PTE overall score of 65 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Special Education Teachers, Educational Leaders, SEND Advisors, Policy Developers, and Autism Specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The SEND MA at the University of Chester focuses on becoming an advanced practitioner and leader in special education. Key subjects include autism, dyslexia, and trauma-informed practice, enabling you to specialize and make a significant impact.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) MA has intakes in January, April, and October. You can choose the month that best fits your schedule and goals.
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