Autism

Entry requirements

The Master of Education in Autism (MEdA) programme is being offered as a two-year level 9 blended Master level programme open to teachers working in primary and post-primary schools, or in special schools or classes. Participants will be eligible to apply who hold a Level 8 qualification in education, at minimum H2.2 and be registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland (or its equivalent in other jurisdictions). Additionally, participants must also be working with pupils on the autism spectrum for the duration of their enrolment on the MEdA. Standard entry procedures for international applicants and for applicants with disabilities apply.

Applicants should meet the minimum entry criteria outlined above and will be interviewed to assess their application. Each interview will be scored according to a predetermined criterion, with places being offered to those with the highest scores.

Direct Entry into Year 2

Graduates of two DCU accredited postgraduate qualifications may be considered to enter the 2nd year of the MEdA. These are;
- The Graduate Certificate in the Education of Pupils on the Autism Spectrum (GCEAS), and
- The Graduate Diploma in Inclusive Education, Learning Support and Special Education (GDILS). Selection criteria may apply to all candidates.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Around 1.5% of the school population in Ireland is autistic, according to the National Council for Special Education. If you’d like to develop a deep understanding of autism and whole-school inclusive practices at the world’s first autism-friendly university, this course is for you.

During this two-year, part-time programme, you’ll learn more about the neurodiversity paradigm. You’ll also gain a better understanding of neurology and the autistic experience. Furthermore, you’ll study evidence-based approaches to inclusive education, and explore the strengths and characteristics of autistic pupils.

Benefit from practical and theoretical study
This flexible course is delivered in-person and online to facilitate working teachers. As well as core modules, you’ll complete two teaching practice visits to help you see what you’ve learned put into practice. You’ll also master relevant research methods and submit a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Once you graduate, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to pursue special education teacher roles or lead inclusive education programmes for autistic pupils.

For more information, you can read this Department of Health report on ‘Estimating Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the Irish Population: A review of data sources and epidemiological studies (2018)