Postgraduate Dip in Arts/Cert in Specific Learning Difficulties
Programme Overview
The programme provides a postgraduate qualification for all professionals interested in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD).
The Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity at ATU St Angela’s has, in recent, years developed a number of online blended-learning options at postgraduate level for all professionals interested in the areas of Special Educational Needs (SEN). There are currently four modules to choose from in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties:
- Educational Research Methods
- Literacy
- Specific Learning Difficulties 1 - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
- Specific Learning Difficulties 2 - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/ Developmental Coordination Disorder
This modular blended learning course (which includes e-tivities, discussion boards and some online workshops) is offered over two years.
The aim of the modules is to provide substantial theoretical and practical continuing professional development for those interested in and/or working with learners with special educational needs.
Please note you may only choose one module per semester.
Applications and Selections
Applications for January 2024 are now closed.
Who Teaches this Programme
Requirements and Assessment
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Level 8 Undergraduate Degree (H2.2) or equivalent. For students without the relevant academic qualification but with relevant previous experience, recognition for prior learning can be awarded.
Additional Requirements
Duration
One Year, part-time (PG Certificate)
Two years, part-time (PG Diploma)
Next start date
Semester 2 Modules: Jan 2024
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
15
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
15th December 2023
NFQ level
Level 9
Mode of study
ECTS weighting
Award
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Specific Learning Difficulties
Postgraduate Certificate in Specific Learning Difficulties
CAO
Programme code
Programme Outline
The standalone online blended learning modules involve e-tivities, discussion boards and online workshops and have a credit weighting of 15 ECTS. Modules are offered regularly over the academic year. All modules are completed within a nine week timeframe.
Completion of two modules from the list of three modules below (30 ECTS) = Postgraduate Certificate:
• Specific Learning Difficulties I - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
• Specific Learning Difficulties II - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Literacy
Completion of four modules from the list below (60 ECTS) = Postgraduate Diploma in Arts:
• Specific Learning Difficulties 1 - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
• Specific Learning Difficulties 2 - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Literacy
• Educational Research Methods
Please note you may only choose one module per semester.
Specific Learning Difficulties I and Literacy modules are due to commence 2nd October 2023, with one Saturday online workshop on 7th October 2023.
Specific Learning Difficulties II and Educational Research Methods modules due to commence 23rd January 2024, with one Saturday online workshop on 27th January 2024.
Further Education
Participants may progress to Masters level on successful completion of three modules which must include the online blended learning module: Educational Research Methods. The exit award will be a Master of Arts in Specific Learning Difficulties.
Why Choose This Programme?
Career Opportunities
The modules attract a wide range of participants from a variety of settings, including:
- Classroom teachers
- Graduates who wish to do a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and are awaiting a place on the programme
- Qualified teachers who are seeking full-time employment
- Employees within the Health Service Executive who work with learners with Special Educational Needs
- Principals, managers and Department Inspectorate
- Employees and Managers within Early Childhood Education sector
- Classroom assistants (including cuntóirí teanga)
- Educational Psychologists
- Learning Support Tutors
- Speech and Language Therapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Parents and Family Members involved in the care of learners with special educational needs
- Any others involved in the training or educational needs of learners with special educational needs
Who’s Suited to This Programme
Learning Outcomes
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Programme Fees
Fees: EU
Fees: Tuition
Fees: Student levy
Fees: Non EU
Postgraduate Diploma: €3,600
Postgraduate Certificate: €1,800
Fees can be paid securely through our Online Payment Facility
The Total Fees (EU Fees) for this programme can be found on our Fees & Funding webpage - Fees & Funding | ATU - Atlantic Technological University.
Find out More
Ms Emer Feeney
Administrator
Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity
School of Education
ATU St Angelas
T: +353(0)71 9195552
E: csenid.stangelas@atu.ie