Masters in Special Education UK: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Special education is also called special needs education, aided education, exceptional education, etc. This is provided to students who want to work with special needs people or children.

The Master’s in special education in the UK provides the student with an in-depth knowledge of the needs and requirements of differently-abled people. The Master’s in special needs education in the UK uses practical and hands-on methods to help the students understand how to manage situations related to special needs people. The UK is one of the most coveted places for studying for a Master’s in various disciplines. The study of special education is not only an important discipline but needs to be studied with ample emphasis on science. The Master’s in special education in the UK is one of the best destinations to study the subject.

 Master’s in Special Education in the UK: Course Highlights

Why study the Masters in Special Education in the UK

• Quality Education: Universities for Master’s in special education in the UK are amply available and offer course plans according to the needs and requirements of the students. There is a multitude of universities to choose from. These universities are highly recognized around the world.
• Career Opportunities: Those interested in working in special education will find many opportunities to pursue their chosen career path. The field has many different roles, from teaching to research and administration. There are also many different organizations involved in supporting and delivering special education services, so there is always a need for skilled and dedicated professionals in the UK and worldwide.
• International exposure: working with the people and for the people is the prime scope for the Master’s in Human Resource Management in the UK. And this primary aspect exposes the graduates to various international platforms. 
• Support for international students: most universities will have dedicated international student support services to help with visas and immigration paperwork. Additionally, several government initiatives are specifically designed to support international students studying in the UK. 
• Cost-effectiveness: When compared to other countries, the UK is relatively affordable. The cost of living and tuition fees are lower than in many other Western countries. In addition, there are several scholarships and financial aid packages available for students from low-income families.

Types of Masters in Master’s in special education in the UK

Those aiming to pursue a career in special education will find 3 types of Master’s in Special Education from different courses.

1. MA - Some universities offer a MA in Special Education program. This is suitable for students from a humanities background.
2. MSc - While MSc in Special Education programs is still quite uncommon, this is a suitable program for those looking to research in the field of Special Education and deal with the branch of Pedagogy and Psychology.
3. MEd - The Masters of Education in Special Education is the aptest program for aspiring teachers and instructors.

Best Universities for Master’s in special education in the UK

University requirements for Master’s in special education in the UK

The universities providing Master’s in special education in the UK have specific mandatory requirements for native and international students. These requirements are as follows, 

• Educational qualifications: Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• Standardized tests: English language proficiency is a must for admission to any university in the UK. The IELTS score of 6.0 is an absolute requisite, and a score of 5.5 in all the other components is mandatory. Equivalent test scores like the TOEFL and PTE are also accepted.
• English language proficiency test: a score of 6.0 is mandatory for the IELTS and other equivalent tests.

Course curriculum in Master’s in special education in the UK

The students are taught in several methods, and many different curriculums give students intricate knowledge of special needs management. Though the course work varies from the program offered in the universities, some general study methods are as follows, 

• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities: Policy, Practice, and Provision 
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities: Leadership 
• Special Educational Needs: Work-based Learning in Practice

Many other topics are taught to the future educator for the sole goal of ensuring a bright future for people and children with special needs.

Eligibility Criteria for Master’s in special education in the UK

There are a lot of eligibility criteria for the Master’s in special education in UK universities, 

• A degree in any relevant subject or any cognate discipline.
• English proficiency test
• Exemption from some modules may be granted for appropriate prior learning, including credits gained on a PGCE course.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS, EYTS, or QTLS).
• Applicants need to be a SENCo or an aspiring SENCo.
• Applicants need to provide evidence that they have access to a context where they can complete the practical aspects required for the National SENCo Award and have the full support of the headteacher (or equivalent).

Admission Requirements for Master’s in special education in the UK

• Documents required: the admission process requires some important documents, which are listed below, 
  • Official transcripts and their scanned copies
  • Proof of identification- Copy of passport
  • Resume/ CV- detailing previous work experience and internships
  • Proof of funds
  • Optional GRE/ GMAT score
  • Personal statement- outlining why you wish to study the course
  • LOR
  • Interview- May be conducted by some popular universities.
  • Scores of English proficiency test scores like PTE, TOEFL, and IELTS.
• Completed application forms: all universities require completed online application forms with all details that are asked for.
• Transcripts: official transcripts and their copies are mandatory submissions for all UK universities.
• Standardized test scores: all standardized test scores like IELTS or equivalent are required.
• English language proficiency: English proficiency test scores like TOEFL and IELTS are required for international students whose first language is not English.
• Additional application materials: Some universities also ask applicants to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a CV or resume.
• Proof of identity: Government-issued identity proof is the most preferred.
• Financial support documents: International students sometimes need to submit financial support documents such as bank statements or a letter from a sponsor or guardian.

Admission process for Master’s in special education in the UK

1. Research Universities and Check the requirements: Research UK universities and compare their courses to find a suitable program.
2. Complete the application form: the online application forms must be completed with diligence.
3. Submit the required documents: all necessary documents should be submitted properly and with proof.
4. Submit additional application materials: if the university asks for additional documents like a CV, recommendations, and other documents should be submitted.
5. Decision: After completing the application process, the university takes time to revert and let the students know about the admission. The university solely decides certain criteria.

Cost of studying Master’s in special education in the UK

There are many costs involved with studying Master’s in the UK. Apart from the obvious tuition fee, students need to consider the pre-arrival costs like Visa application fees, IELTS fees, airfare, and health insurance.

In addition, the living costs and food costs should all be considered and researched. 

Scholarship and Financial Aid for Master’s in special education in the UK

Different programs and scholarships are given to students both in the country and internationally. Erasmus Mundus Special Education Needs Master Scholarships and other such scholarships are also available.

• Check with the university you plan to attend: Universities like the University of Kentucky College of Education offer scholarships to students enrolled in the Master of Science (M.S.) in Special Education (moderate and severe disabilities) course.

Career Opportunities after Master’s in special education in the UK

Graduates of this discipline have immense scope and variety, special education graduates are in high demand and growing at an incredible rate, and salaries vary from country to country. As a result, there is no shortage of employment opportunities for educators in the UK and worldwide, and companies and organizations are always on the lookout for good and potential graduates.