Special & inclusive education

Elementary school students look at laptop computer stock photo

Make a difference in the lives of students with disabilities

Special and inclusive education at UNSW is the postgraduate study of choice for teachers looking to advance their career and make a real impact on the lives of special needs children and students with learning disabilities.

Our two special and inclusive education programs are designed for teachers who are looking to specialise in special and inclusive education and develop the skills to support students in all environments.

Guided by leading academics, you’ll gain insight into the underlying theories of special needs education. You’ll also learn how you can integrate special and inclusive education across a range of educational settings and contexts within the Australian classroom.

Why special & inclusive education is important for all teachers

The modern Australian classroom is now fully inclusive of all students, with all schools legally required to have equal education provisions for students with disabilities. Consequently, this means that as a teacher, students with special educational needs will be in your classroom – whether you’re working within special education or not.

It’s now more important than ever to be equipped with the knowledge and strategies to implement universal design for learning. This universal design must allow students of all abilities to be successful in the classroom.

Flexible & affordable

We offer alternative delivery options, including the following:

  • online and blended courses
  • intensive school holiday courses
  • workplace and self-directed learning
  • evening classes.

Our flexible learning options ensure that inclusive education study fits into your lifestyle. We also provide affordable study options with Commonwealth Supported Places and the opportunity (for eligible students) to pay or defer fees through FEE-HELP.

Specialist learning to excel in your career

Students who complete graduate studies in special and inclusive education at UNSW can gain employment in a range of educational institutions. These may include special schools, educational facilities for preschool-aged children and education providers for adults or ageing people with disabilities. Contact us to discover how you can pursue rewarding career opportunities in special and inclusive education.

Study with us

  • UNSW offers two specialist programs which focus on meeting the diverse needs of special needs children with a strong emphasis on developing teaching skills to support students in all environments. 

    Graduate Certificate in Education (Special Education)

    Students completing the Graduate Certificate in Education (Special Education) will complete four elective courses from options within the special and inclusive education specialisation.

    Master of Education (Special Education)

    The Master of Education (Special Education) is designed for qualified teachers who want to obtain an accredited qualification in special education as well as update and extend their professional learning. This degree has the option of continuing onto higher degree studies.

Our people

Professor of Special Education Terry Cumming
Professor of Special Education
Professor in Special Education and Disability Studies Iva Strnadova
Professor in Special Education and Disability Studies