Degree details

Graduates will be able to apply in-depth knowledge of:

  1. local and global policy, perspectives and practices associated with the education of children and young people with disabilities and special education needs;
  2. procedures for analysis, synthesis and reporting of qualitative and quantitative data in research and evaluation of programs for persons with disabilities or special learning needs;
  3. contemporary values and ethical principles that underpin inclusive education and their role in advocacy of children with special needs and their families.

Professional recognition

This degree does not lead to teacher registration in Australia.

Career objectives

Graduates are suitable for careers in a variety of positions ranging from work as teachers in school classrooms, school coordinators and principals, curriculum and policy advisors in departments of education, and as advisors to government and other policy makers.

Higher education

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in disability studies, psychology, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy or a closely related discipline.
 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant Honours, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Masters degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. More information is available at  www.flinders.edu.au/credit.

This degree is intended for teachers and allied professionals who have an interest in extending their knowledge and expertise in working with students with special educational needs in a range of educational settings.

It is designed to extend the competence of teachers to educate and support students with special educational needs in a range of educational settings. It is open to members of professions other than teaching who wish to expand their professional expertise into the area of special education.

It is 2 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time.

Recommended Study Pattern

Students complete four core (compulsory) topics in research and twelve option topics chosen from an extensive range of option topics available. These topics aim to extend the competence of teachers to educate and support students with special educational needs in a range of educational settings and provides in-depth study of matters of crucial importance for the education of children needing special education, including curriculum and systems and issues relating to early development.

As a guide, full-time students generally undertake four topics per semester and part-time students undertake two topics per semester. 

Award Requirements

To complete the requirements of the Master of Education (Special Education) (Basic level entry), students must successfully complete four core (compulsory) topics in research and twelve option topics chosen from an extensive range of option topics available.

Applications are submitted directly to Flinders University through its online application system.