Studying special educational needs abroad

What is special educational needs?

Special educational needs (SEN) refers to learning difficulties or disabilities that can make it harder for children to access education compared to their peers. SEN can include conditions like autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and speech or physical impairments.

Support for children with special educational need can involve tailored teaching strategies, specialist interventions, or assistive technologies.

As an expert in SEN, you can work with schools and educators to provide inclusive learning environments, ensuring that children special educational needs receive the resources, support, and adjustments they deserve to reach their full potential.

Why study special educational needs abroad?

Studying special educational needs abroad allows you to experience a range of educational approaches and gain a global perspective on inclusion.

Exposure to different systems and teaching methods will enhance your understanding, offering valuable skills to support children with diverse needs, while broadening your career opportunities in the education sector.

What you will study

A Special Educational Needs (SEN) degree program typically includes modules focused on understanding and supporting children with diverse learning needs. Common modules include:

• Introduction to SEN – Overview of different types of learning difficulties and disabilities.
• Inclusive Education – Strategies for creating inclusive learning environments.
• Child Development and SEN – Understanding how development impacts children with SEN.
• Assessment and Intervention – Techniques for identifying and addressing specific learning needs.
• Psychological Theories in SEN – Theories behind cognitive, social, and emotional development in SEN students.
• Behavior Management – Approaches to managing challenging behavior.
• Specialist Support and Resources – Tools and resources for supporting children with SEN.
• Policy and Legislation – Understanding local and international laws regarding SEN.

Work placements or practical experience are often included in programs, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real world settings.

Accreditation

For an undergraduate degree, you will normally be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Special Educational Needs or a related field, depending on the program’s focus.

At the postgraduate level, you can pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc), with some programs offering specialisations in areas like autism or inclusive education. If you want to take your professional development further, you could choose to earn a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) or Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in SEN.

Careers

As a graduate of a special educational needs program you will have a variety of career options in education, social care, and support services. Common roles include SEN teacher, working in mainstream or special schools, SEN coordinator, managing and supporting SEN programs, and teaching assistant for students with specific needs.

You could also work as a specialist support worker, a behavioural therapist, or an educational psychologist, which might require further education and additional qualifications. As well as this, you will find that your skills are useful in social work, policy development, or working for a non-profit organisation, advocating for individuals.