Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme combines core education studies with specialist modules on special educational needs (SEN), disabilities and inclusive practice. You will study a blend of theory, policy and applied practice across topics such as the history and philosophy of inclusion, developmental and cognitive profiles of learners with SEN, assessment and personalised planning, assistive technologies, and multi-agency working. Teaching methods usually include lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies and reflective practice sessions.

• Core education modules: introduction to education theory, sociology of education, research methods, and child development.
• SEN and inclusion modules: identification and assessment of SEN, differentiation and curriculum adaptation, behaviour support and positive practice, autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties and disabilities, and transition planning for young people.
• Professional practice: supervised placements in schools and specialist settings, partnership work with families and local agencies, and modules on safeguarding and ethical practice.
• Research and dissertation: a final-year research project or dissertation addressing an applied issue in SEN, disabilities or inclusive education.

The degree typically progresses from broad theoretical foundations in the first year to more specialised and practice-focused study in later years. Optional modules may include assistive technology, inclusive early years practice, post-16 transition and employment, and policy analysis. Practical placement hours with partner schools and organisations form a central element, giving hands-on experience working with diverse learners.

Entry requirements

Entry is usually at undergraduate level for applicants with secondary qualifications or equivalent experience. Typical applicants will hold qualifications such as A-levels, a recognised vocational qualification, the International Baccalaureate, or an Access to Higher Education Diploma. Oxford Brookes also welcomes mature students and those with relevant workplace experience.

• Academic qualifications: three A-levels (or equivalent) or a completed Access to HE Diploma; specific subject requirements are not usually mandated but a background in social sciences, psychology or health-related subjects is helpful.
• International qualifications: international school-leaving qualifications are considered; applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet English language requirements.
• Alternative entry: applicants without traditional qualifications may be considered based on relevant employment or voluntary experience in education, social care or disability services and a satisfactory personal statement and references.

All applicants will normally be asked to provide a personal statement outlining their interest in SEN and inclusion, and to supply references. For placement elements, successful disclosure checks and any required occupational health clearances will be necessary before commencing school-based work.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a range of roles in education, social care and the voluntary sector. Common career paths include teaching support roles (learning support assistant, higher-level teaching assistant), inclusion and specialist support roles within schools, early years SEN support, and family or community outreach positions. The degree also provides a route into postgraduate teacher training (such as PGCE) for those aiming to qualify as teachers and then specialise as a SENCO or specialist teacher.

• Local authority and school-based roles: inclusion coordinator, behaviour support worker, transition coordinator.
• Charities and third sector: support worker, caseworker, project officer with disability-focused organisations.
• Further study and professional progression: postgraduate study in special educational needs, educational psychology, social care, or teacher training leading to qualified teacher status and specialist leadership roles.

Employers value the programme's combination of theoretical understanding and practical experience, and graduates often progress into roles that influence provision, policy and practice for learners with diverse needs.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a long-established provision in education-related subjects and strong links with local schools, colleges and specialist services, which helps secure meaningful placement opportunities. The university emphasizes applied, evidence-informed practice and offers access to research expertise in inclusive education, disability studies and professional development.

• Practice-focused learning: structured placements and partnership working with local education and health agencies.
• Supportive environment: dedicated academic tutors, disability and wellbeing services, and opportunities for mentoring and skills development.
• Research-informed teaching: curriculum shaped by current policy debates and research in special educational needs and inclusion.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare graduates to work effectively with children and young people with diverse needs, to advocate for inclusive practice and to progress into specialised professional roles or further study.