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Education at UEA
Find out more about studying Education at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBA (Hons) Education, Special Educational Needs, and Inclusion with a Year Abroad
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- X61A
- Typical Offer
- BBB
- Contextual Offer
- BCC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Course Options
Other Start Dates
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90%
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Graduate Outcome Survey 202093%
Of students were positive about the support provided by teaching staff
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024-25Course Overview
Why BA Education, Special Educational Needs, and Inclusion with a Year Abroad at UEA?
Study inclusive education from different perspectives and explore how people with diverse learning needs learn. Gain international experience during a year abroad, developing an intercultural understanding of inclusive education systems worldwide.
Why choose UEA?
- Specialist focus: Explore SEND and inclusion, informed by active research in disability, wellbeing, mental health, and inclusive education
- Exciting placements: Gain experience through placements with schools, charities, community organisations and a year abroad
- Excellent prospects: Joint #1 in the East of England for graduate prospects in Education (Complete University Guide 2026)
What is Education, Special Educational Needs, and Inclusion with a Year Abroad?
This course explores how children and young people learn, develop, and take part in education.
You’ll study SEND and inclusive education from social, psychological, cultural, political, and policy perspectives. The course combines theory, research, and practical experience to build critical, reflective, and professional skills. Core modules explore SEND, inclusion, child development, mental health, and educational policy.
You’ll gain practical experience through placements and sessions with schools, charities, and community organisations across Norfolk. In your third year, you’ll study abroad and explore inclusive education in an international context.
Research-informed teaching helps you build confidence and skills to carry out independent research and support inclusive practice.
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Year Abroad
You’ll spend your third year abroad at one of our partner universities around the world. You’ll then return to UEA in your final year to complete your degree.
While abroad, you’ll explore education in a new cultural and academic environment. This experience is valuable for studying special educational needs and inclusion from global perspectives. You’ll learn from international experts and explore different approaches to education practice and theory.
For more details, check out study abroad.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA Education, Special Educational Needs, and Inclusion with a Year Abroad degree, you could launch a career in:
- Special educational needs practitioner: Support learners of all ages experiencing additional needs across a range of educational settings including schools, alternative educaitonal provision, and community settings
- Learning support or teaching assistant roles: Work alongside educators to support inclusive learning, wellbeing, and engagement in primary education settings for learners with a range of needs
- Teaching, including SEND teaching: Progress to a PGCE in Primary with SEND or other inclusive teaching pathways in schools or wider learning environments
- Youth, family, or wellbeing support roles: Work with charities and services supporting children, young people, families, and learners of all ages with additional needs
- Educational research or policy support roles: Contribute to research, policy development, or programme evaluation focused on SEND and inclusive education
Career Support
Career development runs throughout the course through placements, applied research projects, and reflective learning activities.
You’ll build professional confidence through real-world experience supporting inclusive education in different educational settings. You’ll also develop a strong knowledge of education theory and practice.
Our academic staff offer research-informed guidance to support your career planning and postgraduate study.
You’ll also benefit from expert guidance through Career Central, UEA’s dedicated careers service, offering personalised advice, skills development, and career support to help you stand out in a competitive job market.
After the Course
Graduates often move into education support roles in schools and inclusive education services. Many continue into teaching through routes such as a PGCE in Primary with SEND. Others work in youth, family, and wellbeing roles across charities, local authorities, and community organisations.
You’ll also be well prepared for postgraduate study through strong research skills and specialist knowledge developed during the course.
Study and Modules
Structure
You’ll begin your degree by establishing a solid foundation in the major theories, concepts, and issues in education. You’ll explore education in the context of psychology, sociology, history, and philosophy, and discover how such contexts help us to understand education in society today. You’ll also link these key concepts and issues to real-life examples, thinking about education around the world and how technology is changing education today. We’ll also equip you with the skills needed to study effectively and introduce key study techniques such as reflection and academic writing.
We deliver a common suite of year one modules for our BA Education courses, which means you’ll have the opportunity to transfer to one of the following courses after year one:
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll study how to make education accessible, how psychology fits into education, and how to research topics in education. You’ll learn how to study effectively and gain some valuable hands-on experience.
You'll also be able to choose from a range of elective subjects, such as developmental stages, outdoor learning, languages, and a wide variety of other important topics.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner universities around the world. Your studies will depend on your host university, but you’ll explore new approaches to inclusive education in a global context.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll learn how to teach English as a second language, exploring the theories and practices behind the inclusive teaching of language. You’ll also complete a research-based dissertation where you’ll pick a topic to explore under the supervision of a lecturer.
You’ll also be able to choose from a range of additional topics, including media representation, mathematics, childhood, and key issues and politics in modern education. This will prepare you for pathways beyond this degree, including continuing into research through Master’s and PhD studies, continuing into education through PGCE pathways, or various other career pathways that we’ll support you in exploring.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Teaching includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical activities exploring inclusive education across schools, communities, and learning environments.
You’ll learn from active researchers and practitioners specialising in SEND, inclusion, wellbeing, and mental health. Group work, reflection, and discussion run throughout the course to build critical understanding and professional confidence. Placements and community learning connect academic study with real-world inclusive education practice.
In year one, you’ll learn key ideas in education, global education, and digital technology, alongside core academic skills.
In year two, you’ll study specialist modules in SEND and educational psychology. You’ll apply theory through placements and develop research skills through practical and project-based learning.
In year three, you’ll study abroad at your host university.
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics, independent study, and dissertation research.
You’ll also study TESOL, supporting progression into inclusive education roles or routes such as the PGCE in Primary with SEND.
Assessment
Assessment uses varied methods reflecting the skills needed for inclusive education and SEND careers. You’ll complete essays, presentations, projects, reflective writing, and placement-related assessments.
Research-informed assignments build critical thinking, ethical awareness, and the ability to apply theory to inclusive practice. Regular feedback supports your academic progress, professional confidence, and preparation for further study or employment.
In year one, you’ll complete essays, presentations, and short projects that build core knowledge and academic skills.
In year two, you’ll complete essays, applied projects, reports, and reflective assessments linked to placements and research methods.
In year three, assessment will depend on your host university.
In your final year, assessment focuses on a dissertation and advanced assignments. These demonstrate your independent research, critical analysis, and readiness for professional practice.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
BBB
Contextual: BCC
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual: DMM
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3.
Contextual: Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and Pass in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. We accept: Education and Early Years, or Science
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
31 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
2 subjects at H2, 4 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AABBB or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
Scottish Advanced Highers
CCC. or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
NCFE/CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma
Grade B or above in the following subjects:
- Children's Care, Learning and Development
- Children's and Young People's Workforce
- Health and Social Care
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
A levels
BBB
International Baccalaureate
31 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: