Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) MA/PGDip/PGCert
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Course Summary
Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with dyslexia?
Have you ever wondered how you could better identify and support those with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)? Do you want to expand on your expertise, gain specialist knowledge, and open new career opportunities in education and beyond?
Our specialist MA in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) course is designed for professionals like you, and you'll be able to make a real difference to the outcomes of children and young people. Through this course, you will become adept at identifying, assessing, supporting, and advocating for individuals with the SpLD dyslexia. You'll be given a specific focus on dyslexia and be taught by expert practitioners in the field. Our team is comprised of specialists who are constantly informed by the very latest research, policies, and practices and who are perfectly equipped to develop your skills. You will engage in critical evaluation and practitioner research, will make informed contributions to the development of policy and practice in your professional setting/s, and learn via a meticulously tailored curriculum. More on this can be found in the 'What You'll Study' section below.
If you wish to focus less on dyslexia, are more interested in the general SEND element of the course, you might want to check out our MA/PGDip/PGCert in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). On this course, there are alternative optional modules for you to choose within your studies.
On the MA SEND with SpLD course, you’ll study shared modules with the wider cohort of MA SEND students. This will allow you to gain a wider understanding of current and future trends in SEND and develop invaluable networking opportunities with a range of professionals. The blend of students from different professional backgrounds enables discussion, debate and the sharing of experiences in a supportive and welcoming environment, facilitated by staff who are actively involved in the field of special educational needs and disability.
This SEND with SpLD option is typically suited for educators, or for those who work in therapeutic settings, including schools, specialist provisions, universities, colleges, and local authorities. It will also enhance your practices if you are a professional working with children and young people in a variety of roles such as children's services and informal educational settings. Successful completion of the course will enable you to apply for accreditation by professional bodies (including the British Dyslexia Association, Patoss and SASC), and you will be able to pursue roles as a specialist dyslexia teacher, assessor, or consultant, working in educational institutions, private practice, or policy-making bodies.
What You'll Study
This three-year course consists of six 20-credit modules and a 60-credit research project in an area relating to dyslexia. There is one entry point per academic year, which is September.
In the first year, a specialist module will explore the definition and causation theories of the specific learning difficulty (dyslexia) before putting theory into practice through the design, delivery and evaluation of individual, targeted, multisensory support programmes. These skills are then built upon and developed during the final, shared core module considering 'Inclusive Practice' more widely. Successful completion of the first three modules will allow you to apply for specialist teacher/practitioner status from the British Dyslexia Association or Patoss.
MODULES
- ED7301 – Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND): Evaluating Policy and Practice (20 Credits) Core: Through an interdisciplinary lens, you'll explore the sociocultural, political, and legislative frameworks surrounding SEND and develop a critical understanding of disability discourse, policy implications, and practical strategies for supporting individuals. You'll engage with both historical and contemporary SEND policies, critically evaluate the evolution of statutory and legislative contexts, and explore sociocultural constructions and perceptions of disability. You'll then investigate how these (and other) factors have influenced practice within professional settings.
- ED7311 – Specific Learning Difficulties: Identification, Intervention and Teaching (20 Credits) Core: You'll critically examine definitions and causal theories dyslexia, evaluating cognitive, neurological, and environmental influences. Engaging with contemporary debates, you'll contrast typical language, literacy, and numeracy development with trajectories affected by dyslexia. A key focus is on specialist, multisensory teaching methods, enabling you to design, implement, and evaluate tailored support strategies. This practical approach equips you with the expertise to enhance learning outcomes in diverse educational settings.
- ED7302 – Critical Approaches to Inclusive Practice (20 Credits) Core: You'll critically explore theories, models, and policies that shape inclusive practices, evaluating their effectiveness in addressing systemic inequities. Reflecting on personal and professional experiences, you'll assess strengths, identify areas for growth, and analyse case studies to uncover opportunities for innovation. With a strong focus on advocacy, you'll develop strategies to promote inclusion in diverse settings, equipping you with a greater ability to drive meaningful change and foster equitable environments.
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.
In the second year, your specialist modules will build upon these foundations and introduce you to diagnostic assessment practices. Successful graduates will be able to select, administer and score formal diagnostic assessments and then interpret the results and map a diagnosis to an accepted definition of a specific learning difficulty (dyslexia). Successful completion of all the bespoke SpLD modules will allow you to apply for an Assessment Practising Certificate and gain your AMBDA with the British Dyslexia Association, or professional membership with Patoss. You will also have the opportunity to be listed as a recognised assessor by SASC.
MODULES
- ED7312 – Diagnostic Approaches to Assessing Specific Learning Difficulties (20 Credits) Core: You'll conduct and interpret diagnostic assessments for learners with a specific learning difficulty (SpLD), using data to inform targeted interventions. Engaging with current theory and evidence-based practices, you'll explore the relationship between cognitive profiles and attainment in literacy and numeracy. A strong focus on reflective practice will encourage you to critically evaluate and adapt your teaching strategies, ensuring more effective, personalised support for diverse learners.
- ED7313 – Specialist Diagnostic Assessment and Support for Specific Learning Difficulties (20 Credits) Core: You'll enhance your expertise in diagnostic assessment and become equipped to communicate findings clearly and make practical, evidence-based recommendations. You'll explore formal reporting structures, tailoring support strategies for education and the workplace. Examining co-occurring conditions, cultural influences, and the impact of diagnostic labels, you'll develop a nuanced understanding of the assessment process. Legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities will also be considered, preparing you for informed, responsible practice.
- ED7208 – Research Methods and Design (20 Credits) Core: This module provides a comprehensive introduction to research methods and design, equipping you with essential skills for conducting rigorous and impactful research. You will explore a range of different approaches to conducting research, gaining practical experience in research planning, data collection, and ethical considerations. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate research designs for various questions and contexts. By the end of the module, you will be prepared to independently design and execute research projects that contribute meaningfully to your field of study.
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.
In the third year, you will pick a topic of your choice related to the field of dyslexia and undertake your own research project. This is an opportunity for you to investigate aspects of policy/practice in your settings and make a tangible impact, or to investigate and engage in a wider debate within the field of dyslexia.
MODULE
- ED7210 – Research Project (60 Credits) Core: This module offers you an opportunity to undertake an independent research project in an area related to your final award. Through this module, you will develop critical research skills by designing, conducting, and presenting a research study that addresses a significant area of professional interest. This module encourages you to make a meaningful contribution to the field while honing skills essential for research, critical thinking, and current/future professional practice.
Note: If you currently hold an APC/AMBDA-D or equivalent for dyscalculia and wish to top up to qualify as a specialist dyslexia assessor, please contact Sarah Guest (s.guest@chester.ac.uk).
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.
Sarah Guest
Senior Lecturer
Tracey Patterson
Senior Lecturer
The MA SEND with SpLD course has been structured to integrate with the work patterns of busy professionals. As most participants will be teachers or other educational professionals, the teaching is concentrated into six Saturdays each year on site, supplemented by six online evening seminars. These are spread across the academic year with two on site and two online sessions per module studied.
In addition to this direct contact, you should expect to spend time each week on independent study, which might include following asynchronous learning material on the University’s VLE, tutorial time with staff, using the University’s library, and preparing work for assessment.
All assessments in this course are designed using authentic assessment methods, ensuring real-world relevance and application. You will engage in meaningful tasks that mirror professional challenges, fostering deeper understanding, critical thinking, and practical skills that directly translate to your area of employment. The MA SEND with SpLD uses a variety of assessment methods, including presentations, reports, projects, and critical reflections, which will enable you to apply the topics studied to your own area of interest/background and to the age phase in which you are working.
Fees and Funding
£8,775for a full-time course (2025/26)
Guides to the fees for students who wish to commence postgraduate courses are available to view on our Postgraduate Taught Programmes Fees page. Here you will also find information about part-time fees and project/placement year fees.
Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials.
Students who wish to study the optional modules in the assessing of Specific Learning Needs will be required to source their own assessment kits, under guidance from the Programme Leader. This could lead to costs of up to £2,500.
Please note that students who wish to apply for certification will be subject to an additional cost for membership from the British Dyslexia Association, PATOSS or SASC.
Beyond the Classroom
There'll be an opportunity to network with a range of professionals from different backgrounds.
Entry Requirements
2:2 honours degree
A 2:2 honours degree in an area broadly related to education, and/or special educational needs. Those with a degree in a different area but with experience of working in an educational setting with children/young people with special educational needs and disabilities will also be considered. Applicants without an undergraduate degree but with significant experience of working with children/young people with special educational needs and disabilities may be considered and will be invited for interview.
Minimum requirement IELTS Level 6.5. Please refer to the international entry requirements for more details.
English Language Requirements
For those who do not have IELTS or an acceptable in-country English language qualification, the University of Chester has developed its own online English language test which applicants can take for just £50.
For more information on our English language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.
The location
Modern learning resources and library
Fitness facilities
Student Services
Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces
Accommodation
Catering
Fees and Funding
£8,775for the MA course (2025/26)
Your Future Career
Job Prospects
Students who successfully engage in the MA in SEND with SpLD will emerge as reflective practitioners and critical thinkers, equipped with the ability to articulate their views with confidence and conviction. They will also demonstrate an advanced understanding of special educational needs and disability theory, policy, and practice, combined with the practical skills necessary to drive meaningful change in diverse settings. There are opportunities to apply for external accreditation to become either an accredited teacher/practitioner and/or an assessor of SpLD upon successful completion of Year 1 and 2 respectively.
The course enhances participants' knowledge and understanding, while cultivating transferable skills such as:
- Research
- Technology integration
- Problem-solving
- Effective communication.
These competencies are highly valued in various professional environments and will support career progression across a range of roles within and beyond traditional educational settings. Graduates of the MA SEND with SpLD may pursue opportunities such as:
- Leadership and Management Roles – Serving as Key Stage/subject/department heads, school leaders, or managers in educational settings, contributing to strategic development and improvement in schools or community education initiatives.
- Special Educational Needs Roles – Working as inclusion coordinators, curriculum designers, or learning support specialists to address specific educational needs or working within a specialist setting.
- Academia and Research – Teaching and conducting research in further or higher education institutions, shaping future educators, and contributing to the body of knowledge in education.
- Policy and Advisory Roles – Advising local authorities, governmental bodies, or private organisations on special educational needs and disability policy, curriculum development, or professional training programmes.
- Consultancy and Private Sector Opportunities – Providing expertise to educational publishers, ed-tech companies, or corporate training organisations.
- International Education – Taking up positions in global or non-governmental organisations, focusing on special educational needs and disability development, training programmes, or capacity-building initiatives worldwide.
In addition to specific career pathways, the course equips graduates with a robust skillset that enhances their effectiveness in professional settings. The ability to critically analyse complex issues and innovate within their roles ensures graduates are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to their workplace. This ensures that students leave the course as empowered professionals, ready to drive improvements and inspire positive change in education at all levels.
Careers Service
The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.
Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.
We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extracurricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.