Postgraduate Diploma and MEd in Inclusive Special Education
Advanced professional development for teachers specialising in inclusive special education in Irish schools.
Best for:Best for qualified primary and post-primary teachers seeking specialised training in inclusive special education to enhance their professional practice and career advancement.
Overview
This programme offers two pathways: a Postgraduate Diploma in Inclusive Special Education (PGDISE) and a Master of Education (MEd) in Inclusive Special Education. The PGDISE provides theoretical and practical training for teachers working with students with special educational needs across primary, post-primary, and special schools. Successful completion of the PGDISE allows progression to the MEd programme, which builds on this foundation to deepen expertise in inclusive education. Both programmes are designed for qualified teachers employed in funded roles by the Department of Education, ensuring practical relevance and direct application in educational settings.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement inclusive teaching strategies for students with special educational needs.
- Engage in theoretical and practical training to enhance expertise in special education.
- Collaborate with educational psychologists and specialists to support students’ learning needs.
- Participate in blended learning, including online modules and on-campus block release sessions.
- Apply learned theories and methodologies directly in school settings to improve educational outcomes.
- Contribute to ongoing professional development and research in inclusive education practices.
Requirements
Degree required: Primary or post-primary teaching qualification (or equivalent) and current employment as a teacher in a Department of Education-funded role providing special education teaching.
Degree offered: MEd in Inclusive Special Education (for eligible PGDISE graduates)
Language: English (proficiency at a level suitable for academic study and professional practice)
Instruction: English
- Minimum of 11 hours per week teaching special education in recognised schools.
- Current employment in a Department of Education-funded teaching position.
- Experience working with students with special educational needs.
- Must be a primary or post-primary teacher employed in a Department of Education-funded role.
- Must teach a minimum of 11 hours of special education per week.
- Eligible graduates of the PGDISE can progress to the MEd programme.
- EU applicants only for the MEd programme (as of the latest data).
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
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- Teaching language
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-07-24 (Europe/Dublin)
Applicants must apply through the official university portal. For the MEd programme, applications are open until 4 PM on Friday, July 24, 2026. The Postgraduate Diploma applications are currently closed. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
- CV or professional resume
- Teaching qualification certificate
- Proof of current employment in a Department of Education-funded role
- Statement of teaching experience (minimum 11 hours per week in special education)
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
Contact
PGDISE/MEd Inclusive Special Education Team· Programme Enquiries
PGDISE@mic.ul.ie (PGDISE queries), PGEducation@mic.ul.ie (MEd queries)
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