Global Utilities

La Trobe University
University Handbook 2012

Master of Special Education

Course code/s: Bendigo (RMSE)

This course is a major initiative in promoting an inclusive concept of special education. The course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to maximise learning outcomes for all students, particularly those students who experience: learning difficulties or disabilities; autism; multiple disabilities; and mental health issues. The program is underpinned by the principles of inclusion, social justice, the differentiated curriculum, student autonomy and effective communications with students, parents, colleagues and professionals. Teaching strategies for students with autism, challenging behaviours and language difficulties are an important focus in the program.

Duration

The 120 credit point course may be completed over one year full-time or two to three years part-time.

Admission requirements

An approved Australian four year Bachelor of Education, an Honours degree, an approved four year teaching qualification or a specialised Graduate Diploma, or approved international equivalent.

Candidates with an Australian three year Bachelor's degree or approved international equivalent are eligible to apply for a two-year program consisting of the Graduate Diploma in Education (Secondary) or the Graduate Diploma in Special Education and Human Services, followed by the Master of Special Education.

Working with Children check

Students taking practicum subject School and Community Learning must provide a certified copy of their valid Working with Children card prior to undertaking teaching placements.

Course structure

The course is available by all coursework or a combination of coursework and a minor thesis with approval of the Course Coordinator.

Applicants who have completed a recognised Graduate Diploma in Special Education or equivalent may undertake the Coursework and Minor Thesis Pathway.

All subjects are 30 credit points except where indicated.

Core Subject
 
Teaching period Subject title Subject code
TE-SEM-1 Contentions in Inclusive Education EDU5CIE

Plus 90 credit points of subjects from the elective list.

Elective list
 
Teaching period Subject title Subject code
TE-SEM-1 or TE-SEM-2 School and Community Learning# EDU5SCL
TE-SEM-2 Engaging Students with Autism EDU5ESA
TE-SEM-1 Responsive Schools and Pedagogy EDU5RSP
TE-SEM-2 Literacies and Learning EDU5LAL
TE-SEM-2 Methods for Individualised Learning EDU5MIL
TE-SEM-2 Literacies and Lifestories (15 credit points) EDU5LAC
Week 28 Interactive Technologies for Education EDU5ITE
TE-SEM-1 Teaching and Learning in a Virtual Environment (15 credit points) EDU5TLV
TE-SEM-1 or TE-SEM-2 Research Methods in Education EDU5RME
TE-SEM-1 or TE-SEM-2 Independent Study Program # EDU5ISP

TE-SEM-1 and
TE-SEM-2

Minor Thesis A # and
Minor Thesis B #           (Minor Thesis is 60 credit points in total)

EDU5MTA
EDU5MTB

Key: # By arrangement.