MA/PG Dip (Arts) in Inclusive and Special Education
Our online inclusive and special education programme
This flexible programme in the field of special education has been developed jointly by Hibernia College and the Institute of Child Education and Psychology (ICEP) Europe. Gain the knowledge, skills, values and competencies to provide inclusive education.
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Programme Type: Postgraduate Diploma/ Master of Arts
Next Intakes: January 2025, September 2025
NFQ: Level 9
ECTS: PG Dip (60), MA (90),
each module (15)
Academic Validation: QQI
Duration: Self-paced
About the
MA/PG Dip (Arts) in Inclusive and Special Education
The MA/PG Dip (Arts) in Inclusive and Special Education has been designed in conjunction with ICEP Europe to meet the professional and personal needs of educators working with learners with special and additional learning needs in diverse educational settings.
Our part-time, online programme will empower early years, primary, post-primary and special education teachers with the knowledge, skills, values and competencies to provide an inclusive and quality education for all. It will be of particular interest to special education teachers and those who may wish to take on coordinating or leadership roles in a range of educational contexts relevant to inclusion and special education. It may also be relevant to other professionals involved in the education and support of learners with additional needs.
The programme aims to give educators a thorough professional knowledge and understanding of special educational needs and learning difficulties and is underpinned by the latest national and international research.
The modular structure and online model of delivery make this programme particularly suitable for educators seeking a more flexible postgraduate option due to personal circumstances, work or other commitments.
The programme enables educators to acquire a deep understanding of core issues within the field of inclusive and special education. Educators will develop their skillsets and acquire knowledge and expertise in carrying out educational research relevant to inclusion and learners with diverse, special or additional needs.
Graduates may use the knowledge and skills developed during the programme to expand their career opportunities — to become more specialised lead teachers in their schools, to take on educational leadership or management roles, or to work in the field of education policy and practice. Others may continue their studies to doctorate level.
It also enables educators and others to become change agents within schools, other educational settings and the wider education community by promoting and leading inclusive pedagogy through innovative, evidence-informed practice underpinned by a research culture in inclusive and special education.
The College operates a Recognition of Prior Learning Policy for entry into the programme, and applicants with previous learning in a relevant area may be able to have it formally recognised by the College as part of this programme. Those who may wish to be considered under this policy should email rpl@hiberniacollege.net.
Please note that this programme is not a route to a Teaching Council number. If you wish to complete an initial teacher qualification, please refer to our PME programmes.
In conjunction with
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a Pass, or equivalent, in an honours bachelor’s degree at NFQ Level 8 in a relevant area.
To apply, applicants must provide their official Level 8 transcript (or above), showing their overall result and total ECTS credits awarded.
English Language Proficiency
An applicant whose first language/primary mode of expression is not English will be required to produce evidence of English competence. The required proficiency level is B2+ or higher in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Support for Students
Administrative and technical support teams, faculty and tutors are committed to helping students meet academic and career goals while having a positive experience. Students can draw from a range of available support to navigate big and small questions.
Learn More About ICEP Europe
This programme has been developed jointly with the Institute of Child Education and Psychology (ICEP) Europe. Learn more about the partnership and programme in our interview with Dr Deirdre MacIntyre, Founding Director of ICEP Europe.
Student Experiences
Are you curious about studying at Hibernia College? Alumni Overall Student Prize 23, Aislinn Dillon shares her reasons for choosing Hibernia College, her prior experience, research and careers. ‘The first compulsory module on inclusion, focusing on legislation and practice, was my favourite. It engagingly traced the path from segregation to meaningful inclusion, highlighting the importance of equity, diversity, and social justice in the Irish context.’ –Aislinn Dillon