Master of Special Education | 2017

This course is currently under review and is not available in 2017 for new enrolments. Students interested in studying Special Education in the Faculty of Social Sciences should visit the Master of Education (Special Education) handbook page.
Course Code: 422. 

Students should follow the rules and requirements for the year that they commenced their course. The online course information for years prior to 2017 is available from the Archives link in the menu.

Students should also review current subject availabilities via the Subject Descriptions link in the menu.

Overview

The Master of Special Education is a higher degree for teachers and educators currently appointed to Special Education positions within the DEC schools who have no qualifications in the area. The course will provide these practitioners with the theoretical, evidence based practice to complement their roles in schools. This course is only available to students nominated by the DEC through their special education re-training program.

Entry Requirements

To qualify for admission into the Master of Special Education, students must meet the requirements as laid out by the Department of Education and Communities (DEC). These requirements include a four year degree with a teaching qualification (or equivalent), two years teaching experience and they must be eligible for employment in DEC schools. Students must apply for the program through the DEC.

Course Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the Master of Special Education will:

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the theories, policies, legislation and practices underpinning the education of learners with special needs within national and international contexts.
2. Analyse critically, reflect on and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories of special education.
3. Conduct independent research and inquiry into contemporary issues in special education, involving higher order conceptualisation, new ideas and personal initiative.
4. Interpret and transmit educational knowledge, pedagogical and professional skills, and ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
5. Communicate effectively and collaboratively with students with disabilities, their families and other professionals within the legal, ethical and professional practice context.
6. Use advanced knowledge of special education concepts, theories, technologies, policies and pedagogical strategies and critical thinking skills to solve complex problems in special education settings.
7. Apply advanced pedagogic expertise in designing, planning, implementing, adapting and evaluating programs, technologies and resources for a diverse range of learners in special education classroom settings.
8. Act responsibly, ethically and professionally with diverse populations at local, national and global levels. 

Course Structure

The MSpecEd program comprises 48 credit points of study as outlined in the table below.

Credit Arrangements

Refer to UOW's credit arrangements for information on how to apply for credit.

Other Information

Further information is available through the Department of Education and Communities or at:
Email: ssc@uow.edu.au