Special & Inclusive Education BA/BSc
Study of how to support children & young people with diverse learning needs, focusing on inclusion, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), accessibilityand child dev.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want to support diverse learners
Are interested in inclusive education
Enjoy working with people
Want a meaningful career
Are patient and empathetic
Popular Career Fields
Education
Healthcare & Public Health
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Patient advocate
Healthcare & Public Health
Adaptable teacher
Inclusive mindset
What is it?
What is a Special & Inclusive Education degree?
Special & Inclusive Education explores how schools and other settings can meet the needs of all learners, including those with disabilities, developmental differences, learning difficulties, and social or emotional needs.
You’ll study SEND policy, inclusive pedagogies, child development, intervention strategies, and multi-agency working.
The degree prepares students for roles supporting children with additional needs and offers a strong foundation for careers in teaching, SEN support, psychology, social care, and family services.
It suits students who are passionate about inclusion, equality, and helping children thrive.
Why study Special & Inclusive Education?
If you care about fairness in education and want to support those who face barriers to learning, this degree provides meaningful, rewarding training.
It helps you understand:
How different SEND conditions affect learning and development
How to create inclusive classrooms and remove barriers
How interventions and personalised support plans are designed
How professionals work together to support children and families
How policy, funding, and social attitudes shape inclusive practice
The degree equips you to make a direct positive impact on children’s lives.
Course Summary
Study of how to support children & young people with diverse learning needs, focusing on inclusion, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), accessibilityand child dev.
What you'll study
Most Special & Inclusive Education degrees include:
SEND policy, legislation, and inclusive practice
Child development and developmental psychology
Identification and assessment of learning needs
Strategies for supporting communication, behaviour, and wellbeing
Multi-agency working and family support
Safeguarding, disability rights, and equality frameworks
Skills You'll Gain
A Special & Inclusive Education degree helps you build both learning and communication skills, including:
Understanding of diverse learning needs – enabling you to support children with SEND using appropriate strategies.
Observation and assessment skills – helping you identify barriers and plan effective interventions.
Communication and empathy – supporting strong relationships with children, families, and professionals.
Inclusive and reflective practice – allowing you to evaluate approaches and adapt learning environments.
Teamwork and multi-agency collaboration – preparing you to work with teachers, therapists, and support teams.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates enter roles such as:
SEND Support Assistant
Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
Inclusion Coordinator
Family Support Worker
Youth Worker
Early Years SEND Practitioner
Behaviour Support Worker
Community Education Officer
Work Experiences & Placements
Opportunities may include:
SEND units and mainstream schools
Alternative provision and specialist settings
Speech and language or behaviour support teams
Community organisations and charities
Family support and early intervention services
Local authority SEND departments
Experience is valuable for careers in education, social care, psychology, and youth services.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Psychology, Sociology, Health & Social Care, Biology, or English are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show genuine commitment to inclusion, equity, and supporting diverse learners.
Mention experience with children, SEND, youth work, or community settings.
Reflect on an issue in inclusive education that inspires you.
Highlight empathy, patience, communication, and resilience.
What to do Next
Gain experience in schools or SEND settings to strengthen your application.
Explore pathways such as autism support, early intervention, or behaviour work.
Keep updated on SEND reforms, policies, and evidence-based practices.
Consider whether you want to progress into teaching, social care, or psychology.
Wider Reading
The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice (UK)
Essential guidance on supporting children with SEND in educational settings.The Reason I Jump – Naoki Higashida
A first-person insight into the experiences of a non-verbal autistic young person.The Inclusive Classroom – Daniel Sobel
Practical strategies for creating effective, inclusive learning environments.Neurotribes – Steve Silberman
A powerful history of autism, neurodiversity, and shifting approaches to disability.