The Master of Arts in Early Intervention and Inclusive Practice for Children is a pioneering programme designed to provide postgraduate-level study for those who wish to enhance their knowledge, skills and competencies in working with children (Birth – 12 years) from diverse backgrounds who experience adversity and a resultant inability to meaningfully participate in their education.

This adversity may result from various sources, including but not limited to disability, additional learning needs (ALN), poverty, parental substance abuse, and social/emotional disturbance. Irrespective of the source, childhood adversity and the subsequent need for early intervention to support inclusive practice is an area of widespread interest that reaches far beyond Ireland. Therefore, this master’s degree will appeal to national and international graduates.  

The overarching aim of this programme is to equip students with the skills, knowledge and competencies required to successfully support inclusion of all children experiencing challenges within their learning and development in a variety of childhood settings e.g. Early Years Education and Care, School age setting, schools and family and community supports.

What are the key features of this programme?

The key features of this master’s programme have been designed to evaluate the evolving international theoretical frameworks, policies and varied research in relation to Early Intervention and to explore its links to supporting the inclusion of children and their families. The key features of these programmes will be discussed throughout the document but can be summarised as:  

• Delivered as a one year full-time or two year part-time on-campus, or part time Level 9 master’s degree. 
• A focus on the skills and early intervention strategies that may be used in supporting the inclusion of children from birth to 12 years and their families. 
• Specialised skills and knowledge of strategies to ensure that graduates are industry ready following completion of either programme. 
• The programme delivery offers a practical and empowering teaching and learning approach
• The programme is underpinned by Sustainable Development Goals, students will be afforded the opportunity to discuss contemporary issues in the that context . 

The modules within the Master of Arts in Early Intervention and Inclusive Practice will take the students through the skills, knowledge and competencies required to support inclusion through early intervention and to reflect on the complexities and adversities that may impact the development of children.  Throughout their year of study students will complete four modules per semester with a summer dedicated to the writing of their final dissertation which will be action-based research.  

Accreditation:

This Masters programmes is accredited by the Technological University of the Shannon as a Level 9 qualification.

For further information:

Visit: https://tus.ie/courses/ma-early-intervention-and-inclusive-practice-for-children/

Or

Email: Faculty of Business and Humanities Office, TUS businessandhumanities@tus.ie