MA Inclusive Practice in Education
Leeds Beckett University
Course Overview
The MA Inclusive Practice in Education is a flexible, research-informed postgraduate programme designed for educators and education professionals who want to deepen their understanding of inclusion and inclusive practice across diverse educational contexts.
The course explores contemporary theories, policies, and practices related to inclusion, enabling students to critically analyse and improve professional practice. Students engage with key issues such as participation, learning differences, autism, literacy difficulties, and ethical research, while developing their own specialist interests.
Through sustained critical enquiry and independent research, graduates are empowered to lead inclusive change and contribute meaningfully to educational communities and policy development.
Academic Structure and Learning Experience
The MA is delivered via distance learning over one year, carrying 180 Level 7 credits in line with UK postgraduate standards.
The programme consists of compulsory modules including:
- Inclusive Pedagogy
- Participation and Learning
- Literacy Difficulties and Dyslexia
- Autism and Learning
- Research Methodologies for Education
- A final Dissertation
Teaching and learning are designed to be engaging, flexible, and collaborative. Students take part in an online academic community of practice supported through virtual learning environments, discussion boards, and online classrooms. Learning combines directed study with independent research, allowing students to connect theory directly to their own professional contexts.
Assessment is predominantly coursework-based, with an oral assessment element and a final dissertation that enables students to conduct ethically robust, practice-focused research.
Recognition, Accreditation and Value
The course is awarded by Leeds Beckett University and leads to the Master of Arts in Inclusive Practice in Education, a Level 7 qualification recognised within the UK and internationally.
Students may also exit with a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Inclusive Practice in Education, offering recognised interim awards and added flexibility.
The qualification provides strong academic and professional value for educators working in inclusive education, special educational needs, leadership, policy, and support roles, as well as those seeking to influence inclusive practice at organisational or system level.
Flexibility, Support and Progression
Designed for professionals balancing work and study, the programme offers a high degree of flexibility through its distance-learning format. Students can engage with learning materials around their existing commitments while remaining part of a supportive academic community.
Each student is supported by:
- A personal tutor throughout the programme
- Research-active academic staff across all modules
- An individual dissertation supervisor for the final research project
The course also supports progression into doctoral study, senior leadership roles, advisory positions, and specialist inclusive education pathways. The dissertation acts as a strong foundation for those wishing to continue into research-focused careers or further academic study.