How an MA in Inclusive Education and SEN Supports Change with Purpose

In every classroom, there are students who learn in different ways, face unique challenges or require tailored support to thrive.

As awareness around special educational needs (SEN) and inclusive education grows, so too does the need for educators who can lead change and create equitable learning environments for all.

Pursuing an MA in Inclusive Education and SEN is more than just a step in your academic journey. It is an opportunity to become a changemaker in education, someone equipped to advocate for inclusion, design effective interventions and influence policy and practice at every level.

But what exactly does this qualification involve, and how does it support meaningful impact in today’s educational landscape?

Building Inclusive Learning Communities

Inclusive education is grounded in the belief that every learner has the right to access quality education, regardless of ability, background or need.

This approach not only benefits students with additional learning needs but enriches the classroom experience for everyone.

You will develop your understanding of inclusive practices, legislation, educational psychology and curriculum adaptation.

It empowers educators, support professionals and school leaders to identify and remove barriers to learning, and to foster a sense of belonging and participation for all students.

UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring Report (2023) highlights inclusive education is key to achieving long-term educational equity and social cohesion.

In Ireland, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE)'s is the core statutory agency that supports the inclusion of children with special educational needs in schools.

Some of its roles and responsibilities include:

• Allocating Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) and special education teaching supports to schools.
• Providing guidance to parents, schools, and teachers.
• Advising the Minister for Education on SEN policy.

Its local service is delivered through a national network of Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) who interact with parents and schools and liaise with the HSE in providing resources to support children with special educational needs.

Other organisations working in this field include the Department of Education, The Inspectorate (within the Department of Education), The Ombudsman for Children, HSE and more. 

All of this work needs expert care, research, qualified and experienced professionals to inform the future of inclusion and SEN. 

An MA underpins this personal and professional development, for graduates to go on and make a real impact in high-level decision making and implementation.

Professionals with specialist knowledge in SEN are vital to turning this vision into reality.

A Programme Designed for Real-World Impact

Portobello Institute’s MA in Inclusive Education and SEN is designed for working professionals across early years, primary, secondary and further education settings.

Whether you are currently in the classroom or supporting learners in other roles, this flexible, practice-based programme allows you to build advanced expertise while continuing in your role.

The course content covers a wide range of essential areas, including:

• Inclusive policy and leadership
• Assessment and intervention for learners with SEN
• Social and emotional development
• Evidence-based approaches to differentiation and support
• Research in inclusive education

As part of the programme, students complete a research project that can focus on a current issue in their own context, helping to drive improvements and innovation in their workplace.

Meeting a Growing Need in Education

The demand for inclusive education specialists is growing, not only in schools but across educational support services, NGOs and policy development.

In Ireland and internationally, there is increasing recognition of the importance of inclusive learning environments for social justice, student wellbeing and long-term academic outcomes.

According to the (NCSE) the number of students receiving additional educational support continues to rise each year.

With this shift comes the need for professionals who can lead inclusive strategies, train staff, and contribute to system-wide change.

Graduates are well positioned to step into roles such as:

• SEN coordinators
• Inclusion leads
• Education consultants
• Special education teachers or lecturers
• Policy advisors and researchers

This qualification is also an excellent progression route for those working in early childhood education, adult and community education or allied services such as educational psychology and occupational therapy.

A Career with Meaning and Purpose

For many, the decision to specialise in inclusive education stems from a personal passion, a desire to ensure that no learner is left behind, and that education systems become more responsive, equitable and supportive.

The work can be challenging, but it is also deeply rewarding. Seeing the progress of a student who once struggled to engage, or supporting a team to build inclusive capacity across a whole school, brings a sense of purpose that few careers can match.

As inclusive education continues to evolve, professionals with an advanced understanding of SEN are not just supporting students, they are influencing the future of education itself.

Education as a Catalyst for Change

At its core, this course is about empowering individuals to make a difference. It provides the tools, frameworks and research skills needed to address inequality in education, lead informed change and improve outcomes for all learners.

If you are driven by the belief that every student deserves to be seen, heard and supported, this programme can help you turn that belief into action.

Learn More

Our MA in Inclusive Education and SEN is awarded by the University of Essex and designed with flexibility for professionals. 

For more information, visit our course page or get in touch with our admissions team who can give you personalised advice and support.