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Funding Available

Eligible courses are approved for the Caregivers Training Grant (CTG).

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Master of Arts

Master of Arts in Special Educational Needs / Additional Learning Needs

(Fully Online)

Join a programme where professional growth and compassionate service go hand in hand, where your work truly matters.

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Duration

3 years

Part-time

Programme Fee

SGD 28,879.80

GST included

Who is this for:

-Educators
-Therapists
-Parents/ Caregivers of Learners with SEN

Intakes

March, June, September, November
(Refer to ‘Application Period’ for application deadlines)

About the Programme

Empowering Professionals to Lead with Knowledge and Compassion

The MA SEN / ALN, offered in collaboration between the University of South Wales (USW) and DAS Academy, is a transformative postgraduate programme designed for professionals committed to supporting children and young people with learning difficulties, behavioural challenges, or developmental needs. Whether you’re an educator, care provider, or practitioner in a related field, this programme will equip you with the skills and insight to make a meaningful impact.

Grounded in both research and real-world practice, the course equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and compassion needed to respond effectively to complex developmental needs. You’ll learn how to navigate complex needs with empathy, advocate for inclusive education, and become a leader in your field.

The MA SEN / ALN programme combines the strengths of a well-established UK-based Special Educational Needs (SEN) framework with the unique needs and perspectives of Singapore’s education landscape. This one-of-a-kind programme blends evidence-based practices from both East and West, creating a truly global and practical approach to inclusive education.

A Global Learning Community

With a growing community of students and alumni from countries such as China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and beyond, the MA SEN/ ALN is not just a qualification; it’s a gateway to making lasting change where it matters most.

Why Choose Us?

Supervision by Experienced Practitioners

Gain an edge through real-world insights and supervision from professionals with extensive field experience.

East Meets West: A Global Perspective

Evidence-based SEN practices rooted in an established UK framework and enriched by Asian perspectives.

100% Online

Our fully online Master’s programme allows you to attend live sessions and learn from anywhere across the globe.

Career Advancement

Strengthen your credentials and lead in the SEN sector.

Practical & Applied

Apply your learning directly to real classroom and support settings.

Who Is This For?

General Education Educators

Special Needs Educators

Educational Therapists

Parents/ Caregivers of Learners with Special Educational Needs

Partnership with University of South Wales, UK

A Global Programme, Rooted in Local Relevance

Recognised as USW’s most significant international partnership, this long-standing collaboration is a testament to the programme’s impact and quality. “Singapore is admired for its innovative education system,” says Lisa Taylor, Director of Education at USW, “and linking with this high-level SEN practice is important to us.”

DAS Academy’s Head, Dr. June Siew, adds, “When our journey with inclusion began, we needed a strong, authoritative voice in SEN. And we found that in USW.”

For further information about USW, please visit 

www.southwales.ac.uk

Programme Structure

A 3-Year Programme with Two Study Pathways

Pathway 1

180 credits

Choose 4 Taught Modules (including RM)

+

60-credit Dissertation

Pathway 2

180 credits

All 5 Taught Modules

+

30-credit Dissertation

Download the Course Descriptions here

Programme Modules

Module 01

Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment

ED4U027 — 30 credits

15 – 19 Mar 2027

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Module 02

Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD

ED4U019 — 30 credits

2 Jun 2026

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

3 Jun 2026

In-person · 9:30 am – 5:00 pm

4 Jun 2026

Live online learning · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

5 Jun 2026

Asynchronous · 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

6 Jun 2026

Live online learning · 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Module 03

Working with Dyslexia: Linking Theory, Assessment and Practice

ED4U034 — 30 credits

21 – 25, 28 – 30 Sep & 1 – 2 Oct 2026

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Practicum: Followed by a practicum, to be completed within 6 months.

Module 04

SEN / ALN: Contexts and Concepts

ED4U032 — 30 credits

23 – 27 Nov 2026

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Module 05

Research Methodology (RM)

ED4U009 — 30 credits

To be taken after all other taught modules. Pre-requisite for Dissertation.

7 – 11 Sep 2026

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

14 Sep 2026

In-person · 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Module 06

Dissertation

(7,500 word count)
(15,000 word count)

ED4U008 · 30 credits  |  ED4T002 · 60 credits

To be taken after Research Methodology.

1-Day Induction · 26 Mar 2026

Live online learning · 9:30 am – 1 pm

Course Fees

Award

Master of Arts (SEN/ALN)

Programme

Pathway 1 — 180 credits
or Pathway 2 — 180 credits

Total Payable Fee

$28,879.80

Option to pay in 6 instalments — $4,813.30 every six months.

  • Module fees are inclusive of one reassessment opportunity.
  • Module fees will be chargeable again for a retake of the module.
  • All fees are subject to change annually.
  • The fees above have been updated and are accurate as of 8 April 2025.
  • All fees listed are in Singapore dollars (S$) and are inclusive of the prevailing GST of 9%.

Assessment

The assessment is typically a written assignment, submitted at the end of each module.

Course Lecturers

Dr June Siew

Head of DAS Academy, RETA Fellow

Dr Matthew Hutt

Head of Professional Learning, University of South Wales

Dr Priscillia Shen

Adjunct Lecturer, Head of DAS International

Jolene Pang

Lecturer, RETA Associate Fellow

Hamadatun Yusuf

Lecturer, Lead Educational Therapist, Senior Specialist Teacher & RETA Fellow

Siti Asjamiah Asmuri

Lecturer, Lead Educational Therapist, Senior Specialist Teacher & RETA Fellow

All Lecturers →
Admissions

Entry Requirements

Admissions

  • 01A Bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognised university
  • 02If English is not the medium of instruction for the Bachelor’s degree, a minimum of C6 pass in English as First Language at ‘O’ Level is required; OR
  • 03Able to demonstrate a level of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (minimum score of 5.5 in each band). IELTS test should have been taken in the last two years
  • 04If you do not possess a Bachelor’s degree, but have achieved relevant working experience in the field, you may apply through the alternative entry process.

Alternative Entry Route (for those without a Bachelor’s degree and above)

  • 01At least three years of relevant working experience
  • 02Obtained a minimum of C6 pass in English as First Language at GCE ‘O’ Levels OR
  • 03Able to demonstrate a level of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (minimum score of 5.5. in each band). IELTS test should have been taken in the last two years

Application Period

ModuleDetailsRegister By*
Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment
ED4U027 (30 Credits)		15 – 19 Mar 20271 Feb 2027
Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD
ED4U019 (30 Credits)		2 – 6 Jun 202615 Apr 2026 [CLOSED]
Working with Dyslexia: Linking Theory, Assessment, and Practice
ED4U034 (30 Credits)		21 – 25, 28 – 30 Sep &
1 – 2 Oct 2026		10 Aug 2026
SEN/ALN: Contexts and Concepts
ED4U032 (30 Credits)		23 – 27 Nov 202612 Oct 2026
Research Methodology (RM)
ED4U009 (30 Credits)
(To be taken after all other taught modules)
(Pre-requisite for Dissertation)		7 – 11, 14 Sep 202627 Jul 2026
Dissertation
ED4U008 (30 credits) / ED4T002 (60 credits)
(To be taken after Research Methodology)		26 Mar 2026–

*Applicants interested in the scholarship are advised to refer to the ‘Procedure’ section on the ‘Scholarship’ page for the application deadlines for both the MA SEN/ ALN programme and the scholarship.

Application Process

Complete the DAS Academy registration form and upload the following documents

01

A coloured passport-sized photograph

02

National Identify Card (NRIC)/Passport/ FIN Card

03

Bachelor’s Degree scroll

04

Complete transcript for Bachelor’s Degree (Original Language/Original Translation in English). If a complete transcript is not available, include a complete set of examination results for every semester.

05

Any other educational certificate or diploma, with complete transcripts

06

Two electronically signed references from academic or work-related referees

07

Personal Statement (500 – 1000 words) with your electronic signature

Introduce your background; explain your rationale for taking up this programme and the significance of this programme for your personal and/or professional development

Application Fee

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of $109 (GST included) will apply.

Contact

For more details, please call us at 6336 2555 or email info@dasacademy.edu.sg

Upcoming Intakes

March Intake

Apply by February

June Intake

Apply by April

September Intake

Apply by August

November Intake

Apply by October

View all intakes →
Invest in Your Future

Mid-Career Scholarship

Empowering mid-career professionals to make a greater impact in the SEN sector.

Learn about Scholarships
Scholarship

Empowering Mid-Career Professionals to Lead in Special Education

Scholarship Objectives

The DAS – DAS Academy Scholarship is your opportunity to embark on a meaningful and rewarding journey into the Special Educational Needs (SEN) sector, where your skills, experience, and passion can transform lives.

This partial academic scholarship is designed for individuals looking to make a mid-career switch into SEN, in line with our mission to empower people with dyslexia and other specific learning differences.

Through this scholarship, you’ll receive financial support to pursue the Master of Arts in Special Educational Needs/Additional Learning Needs — a rigorous, three-year, part-time postgraduate programme that equips you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to lead in inclusive education.

Whether you’re a teacher, social worker, manager, or professional from another field, this programme will help you:

Target Audience

We believe mid-career professionals bring valuable insight and empathy to the SEN field. This scholarship catalyses capable, values-driven individuals to make a lasting difference, particularly in the lives of children who need it most.

This first-of-its-kind scholarship is open to Singaporeans and Permanent Residents who are ready to upskill and pursue a meaningful career supporting learners with learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD, and other hidden learning needs that may not be immediately visible in traditional classrooms.

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds:

We also encourage special education teachers to apply if you’re looking to broaden your expertise beyond the more complex needs typically addressed in SPED schools, and focus on supporting students with specific learning differences.

If you’re seeking a purposeful second career that changes lives, this scholarship is your gateway into a sector that needs compassionate, capable, and committed individuals.

Related fields

General education, special needs, early childhood, social work, and tuition

Unrelated sectors

Finance, engineering, IT, marketing, and more — your skills are transferable and valued

Cultivate specialist skills to support diverse learners

Channel your experience into a purposeful new career

Join a community of passionate changemakers

Procedure

Scholarship applicants must apply for and be accepted into the MA SEN/ALN programme before seeking the scholarship. There are two scholarship application periods each year.

Application Period Apply for MA SEN/ALN Apply for Scholarship Interview Period Join Programme
1 By 11 Jan 2026 By 18 Jan 2026 26 Jan – 6 Feb 2026 Mar 2026 (Week 3)
2 By 16 Mar 2026 By 27 Mar 2026 13 Apr – 24 Apr 2026 June 2026 (Week 1)
3 By 7 Sep 2026 By 18 Sep 2026 5 – 16 Oct 2026 23 November 2026 (Week 3)

Scholarship Value and Fee Breakdown

Complete the DAS Academy registration form and upload the following documents

Total Programme Cost

$28,879.80

Value of Scholarship

$19,253.20

Self-Funded Amount

$9,626.60

Payment schedule: Your self-funded portion will be paid in 6 equal instalments of $1,604.43 every six months, starting from the time of enrolment.

How To Apply

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree, equivalent qualification, or have at least 5 years of relevant work experience in the field of Special Educational Needs (SEN).
  • Applicants may come from related sectors (e.g. general education, special needs, early childhood, social work, tuition) or unrelated sectors (e.g. finance, engineering, IT, marketing, or currently unemployed).

Selection Process

Candidates will be assessed based on their interview and a proposed plan to complete at least 36 hours of volunteer service with DAS or DAS Academy. This proposal is to be submitted after the interview.

There is an equal opportunity for both mid-career switchers and individuals already working in the special needs sector (e.g. SPED teachers looking to specialise in specific learning differences).

Required Documents

The scholarship application form (click to access)

A personal statement for scholarship

Background information; motivation for applying for this scholarship; what you hope to achieve through this programme; how you wish to contribute or further contribute to the SEN field

The reference should ideally be typed on letterheaded paper, signed, and dated. It should contain the title, name, position, and contact details of the referee; state how long and in what capacity the referee has known the applicant; comment on ALL following areas: academic performance, study/research skills, relevant personal qualities, motivation and suitability for the intended programme or research project, as well as his/her career aims and prospects; and make a recommendation for the scholarship applicant based on his or her ability to contribute to the SEN community.

As part of giving back, scholarship recipients should contribute a minimum of six hours of service at Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS)/ DAS Academy every six months from commencement of the programme. i.e. a minimum of 36 hours within 3 years.

Terms & Conditions

1. Commitment to the SEN sector

Recipients are expected to actively engage with the SEN field throughout the duration of their studies. Early involvement will help scholars develop a grounded, real-world perspective that strengthens their practice and learning.

As part of giving back, scholarship recipients must contribute a minimum of 6 hours of volunteer service at the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) or DAS Academy every six months, adding up to at least 36 hours over the 3-year programme. A proposed volunteer service plan must be submitted before the interview and the finalised version submitted within a week after the interview. Volunteer roles may include project support, outreach, mentoring, or other relevant contributions.

To ensure accountability and reflection on professional growth: Recipients must submit a brief Impact Report every six months from the start of the programme. Each report must be endorsed by a relevant DAS department and submitted to the Sponsorship Panel.

Recipients are expected to: Complete the Master of Arts in SEN/ALN programme within 36 months. Pass every module with at least the minimum required grade.

The scholarship may be revoked and reimbursement required if any of the following conditions are not met: Attaining a minimum pass grade for each module. Completing the required volunteer hours (minimum 6 hours per 6-month period). Submitting biannual impact reports. Completing the programme within the 36-month timeframe.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the classes taught by lecturers from the University of South Wales?

The following modules are co-delivered by lecturers from the University of South Wales:

  • SEN/ALN: Contexts and Concepts
  • Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment
  • Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD
  • Research Methodology

The MA SEN/ALN is awarded by the University of South Wales. The course, conducted from Singapore, is accredited by the University of South Wales with commendation for quality standards in the UK Quality Assurance Agency’s Higher Education Review (2015).

This course has proven to be a beacon of inclusive educational practices tailored to the Asian context. By merging high-achieving educational environments, bringing together high-quality, evidence-based practices from the East and the West, it has raised the bar for SEN/ALN education in the region and draws students from China, Philippines, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and various other countries.

Read more about the DAS Academy – USW collaboration here.

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped for specialist roles in the education and social service sectors. Career paths include, but are not limited to, special education teaching, learning support, educational therapy and inclusive education advocacy. The programme also supports professionals from other industries looking to transition into the SEN field or deepen their ability to support individuals with hidden learning disabilities.

The University of South Wales offers two exit awards for students who require an intermission of studies or who wish to withdraw from the Master of Arts for unforeseen reasons:

  1. Postgraduate Certificate (PGC) (60 credits):
    Awarded upon completion of any 2 taught modules, excluding the Research Methodology module.
  2. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) (120 credits):
    Awarded upon completion of any 4 taught modules.

These exit awards ensure that students who are unable to complete the full MA SEN/ALN programme can still receive recognised academic credentials for their completed coursework.

Students who graduate with a PGC or PGD may return to complete the MA SEN/ ALN within 3 years of graduation.

A Postgraduate Diploma is a postgraduate qualification usually awarded after a university degree (or via the Alternative Entry Route). The Postgraduate Diploma offered at the DAS Academy is a subset of the Master of Arts in Special Educational Needs/Additional Learning Needs (MA SEN/ALN) and is conferred by the University of South Wales. While the full MA SEN/ALN is made up of 180 credits, the Postgraduate Diploma in SEN/ALN is made up of 120 credits.

The Specialist Diploma in Learning Support for Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) is designed and awarded by the DAS Academy and provides individuals with opportunities to deepen their theoretical and practical knowledge, and to develop specialisations in the area of SpLD. For the award of the Specialist Diploma in Learning Support for Specific Learning Differences, participants have to successfully complete seven modules. There are no credits tagged to each module.

Duration: 3 years (Part-time)

Programme Fee: SGD 28,879.80 (GST included)

Application Fee: SGD 109.00 (GST included)

“The MA in Special Educational Needs/Additional Learning Needs deepened my understanding of inclusive education and strengthened my ability to design interventions that meet learners’ diverse needs. It has also transformed how I teach and mentor, as I now integrate evidence-based practices more intentionally and lead with greater confidence, empathy, and reflective awareness. The course empowers educators to create meaningful change while fostering both professional and personal growth.”

Zakiyyah Binti Masri

Senior Educational Therapist, Educational Advisor, Dyslexia Association of Singapore MA SEN/ALN

“I appreciate the blend of local and international perspectives. The MA SEN/ALN deepened my understanding of my students and boosted my confidence.”

Hamada Yusuf

Lecturer at DAS Academy & Lead Educational Therapist Class of 2022

“The MA SEN/ALN equipped me with cross-cultural insights and prepared me for China’s evolving emphasis on inclusive education.”

Sheng Wu (Jean)

Senior Disability Support Advisor Class of 2021

“The lecturers’ practical insights made the learning deeply relevant, real, and impactful on my work and parenting.”

Isobelle Wong

Behavioural Optometrist & Educational Therapist Class of 2019

“The MA SEN/ALN gave me the flexibility to start my own business while managing my career and family life.”

Gloria Pereira

Educational Therapist and Coach Class of 2019

Ready to make a difference?

Join a community of professionals committed to supporting learners with dyslexia and other Specific Learning Differences.
Apply Now
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