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Courses
Courses
Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.
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University Life
University Life
Each year more than 4,000 choose University of Galway as their University of choice. Find out what life at University of Galway is all about here.
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About University of Galway
About University of Galway
Since 1845, University of Galway has been sharing the highest quality teaching and research with Ireland and the world. Find out what makes our University so special – from our distinguished history to the latest news and campus developments.
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Colleges & Schools
Colleges & Schools
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Research & Innovation
Research & Innovation
University of Galway’s vibrant research community take on some of the most pressing challenges of our times.
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Business & Industry
Guiding Breakthrough Research at University of Galway
We explore and facilitate commercial opportunities for the research community at University of Galway, as well as facilitating industry partnership.
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Alumni & Friends
Alumni & Friends
There are 128,000 University of Galway alumni worldwide. Stay connected to your alumni community! Join our social networks and update your details online.
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Community Engagement
Community Engagement
At University of Galway, we believe that the best learning takes place when you apply what you learn in a real world context. That's why many of our courses include work placements or community projects.
Special Educational Needs (PDip)
The application process for the 2023–24 Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs is now open. Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Friday, March 24th, 2023.
The DES circular which gives the necessary information on eligibility and on the application process can be downloaded here.
A Word version of the application form for teachers in primary and special schools can be downloaded here: Application form for teachers in primary and special schools.
A Word version of the application form for teachers in post-primary schools can be downloaded here: Application form for teachers in post-primary schools.
When completed, please email your application form to pdsen@universityofgalway.ie on or before the closing date. Postal applications will not be accepted.
Thank you for your interest in our programme. We look forward to receiving your application. If you have any questions regarding your application, please email them to pdsen@universityofgalway.ie.
Course Overview
The programme aims to give fully qualified serving teachers working in SEN teaching roles in their schools and other recognised educational services a thorough professional knowledge and understanding of special needs and learning difficulties, and to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to support the education of those with special needs and learning difficulties in various contexts. In doing so, the programme also aims to provide enjoyable and rewarding learning experiences and be responsive to learners’ needs.
The programme is supported by the Department of Education and Skills (DES) and provides a recognised qualification for teachers working in the area of special educational needs and learning support in mainstream and special settings. Programme fees are paid by the DES. The programme is delivered by a core team supported by a cohort of associate lecturers with a range of experience and expertise.
Applications and Selections
[The application process for the 2024–25 Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs will be specified here, when it starts.]
The DES circular which gives the necessary information on eligibility and on the application process can be downloaded here.
Thank you for your interest in our programme. If you have any questions regarding your application, please email them to pdsen@universityofgalway.ie.
Who Teaches this Course
Cohort of lecturers with specific expertise and experience in areas of SEN
Requirements and Assessment
Assessment is through coursework assignments undertaken during the year and is linked to teachers’ developing practice.
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must be graduates and qualified teachers registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland and have a designated teaching role in relation to students with special educational needs. Further eligibility criteria are included in the DES circular available at: www.education.ie
Additional Requirements
Garda Vetting/police clearance is required for this programme.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Duration
1 year, part-time
Next start date
September 2024
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
30
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
See DES circular.
NFQ level
Mode of study
ECTS weighting
60
Award
CAO
Course code
PDE
Course Outline
The programme consists of five modules:
- Inclusion: Perspectives and Implications for Practice
- Assessment, Planning and Applications
- Curricular Issues for Special Educational Needs
- Implications of Educational Disability
- Specialist Study.
The programme involves release from schools/centres for designated block periods of a total of eight weeks over the academic year, with substitute cover provided. In addition, some lectures and workshops take place on Saturdays. The programme also includes supervised work in teachers’ own schools/centres and a four-day placement in a special setting other than their own.
Key to the programme are inclusive approaches to teaching and learning, which are discussed and demonstrated. Teachers are supported in implementing such approaches in their schools. Participants are encouraged to engage with the programme, and emphasis is placed on developing the skills required to become effective, reflective practitioners in the field of special educational needs.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Qualified teachers who graduate from this programme are recognised by the Department of Education and Skills (DES) for positions as special education teachers (SETs) in mainstream and special settings.
Who’s Suited to This Course
Learning Outcomes
Transferable Skills Employers Value
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
€
Fees: Tuition
€
Fees: Student levy
€
Fees: Non EU
€
Fees are covered by the DES for eligible participants.
