- Can I join the programme if I do not have a basic degree?
Yes, you may join the programme via the alternative entry route. Please click here to find out more: Alternative Admissions
- 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
- What is the difference between the 30-credit and 60-credit Dissertation?
The Master of Arts in Special Educational Needs/Additional Learning Needs (MA SEN/ALN) is a 180-credit programme which includes either the 30-credit Dissertation or the 60-credit Dissertation.
The 30-credit Dissertation has a 7,500 word count. Students who opt to do the 30-credit Dissertation have to complete ALL 5 taught modules.
The 60-credit Dissertation has a 15,000 word count. Students who opt to do the 60-credit Dissertation only need to complete 4 taught modules, including Research Methodology.
- Will the Master’s certificate be awarded by DAS Academy or University of South Wales (UK)?
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.
- What can I do with this Master’s certificate?
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.
- What options are available if I am unable to complete the full duration of the programme?
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:
- Postgraduate Certificate (PGC) (60 credits):
Awarded upon completion of any 2 taught modules, excluding the Research Methodology module. - 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.
- Postgraduate Certificate (PGC) (60 credits):
- What is the difference between the Postgraduate Diploma and the Specialist Diploma?
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.
Master the Skills. Better the World.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- General Education Educators
- Special Needs Educators
- Educational Therapists
- Parents/ Caregivers of Learners with Special Educational Needs
A Global Programme, Rooted in Local Relevance
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. 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
Class of 2022
Class of 2021
Class of 2019
Class of 2019
The MA SEN/ALN is a 3-year programme with the option of two study pathways:
| Taught Module | Timing |
|---|---|
| SEN/ALN: Contexts and Concepts | November (Week 4) |
| Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment | March (Week 3) |
| Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD | June (Week 1) |
| Research Methodology (RM) (Pre-requisite for Dissertation) | September (Week 2) |
| Working with Dyslexia: Linking Theory, Assessment and Practice | September & October (Week 4 & Week 1) |
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
Each module (except Dissertation) is 30 hours long. The lectures are delivered by DAS Academy and University of South Wales (UK) lecturers with extensive field experience.
- The 60-credit Dissertation has a word count of 15,000 words
- The 30-credit Dissertation has a word count of 7,500 words
You may join the programme at any module except Research Methodology and Dissertation.
| AWARD* | FEES (Wef 1 Jan 2024) |
|---|---|
Master of Arts (SEN/ALN) Pathway 1 (180 credits) | Total payable fee: $28,879.80
|
- Module fees are inclusive of one reassessment opportunity. Module fees will be chargeable again for a retake of the module.
- All fees are subject to change annually. The fees above have been updated and are accurate as of 8 April 2025.
- All fees listed are in Singapore dollars (S$) and are inclusive of the prevailing GST of 9%.
- A Bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognised university
- If 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
- Able 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
If 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
- At least three years of relevant working experience
- Obtained a minimum of C6 pass in English as First Language at GCE ‘O’ Levels OR
- Able 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
| Module | Details | Register By |
|---|---|---|
| Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment (ATS) ED4U027 (30 Credits) – 30 Hours | 17–21 Mar 2025 9:30 am–4:30 pm | — |
| Dissertation ED4U008 (30 Credits) – 1 Induction Day | 27 Mar 2025 9:30 am–12:30 pm | — |
| Dissertation ED4T002 (60 Credits) – 1 Induction Day | 27 Mar 2025 9:30 am–12:30 pm | — |
| Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD ED4U019 (30 Credits) – 30 Hours | 2–5 Jun 2025 6 Jun 2025 | — |
| Research Methodology ED4U009 (30 Credits) – 30 Hours | 8–11 Sep 2025 15 Sep 2025 | — |
| Working with Dyslexia: Linking Theory, Assessment, and Practice (ATS) ED4U034 (30 Credits) – 42 Hours | 6-month Teaching Practicum starts 22 Sep 2025 Briefing: Lectures: | 8 Aug 2025 |
| SEN/ALN: Contexts and Concepts ED4U032 (30 Credits) – 30 Hours | 24–28 Nov 2025 | 10 Oct 2025 |
Complete the DAS Academy registration form and upload the following documents
- A coloured passport-sized photograph
- National Identify Card (NRIC)/Passport/ FIN Card
- Bachelor’s Degree scroll
- 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.
- Any other educational certificate or diploma, with complete transcripts
- Two electronically signed references from academic or work-related referees
- 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
For more details, please call us at 6336 2555 or email info@dasacademy.edu.sg
The DAS-DAS Academy Scholarship aims to support individuals seeking a career transition into the Special Educational Needs (SEN) sector by providing professional development opportunities through the Master of Arts in SEN/ ALN offered by DAS Academy and USW. Funded by a private donor, this scholarship is open to Singaporeans and Permanent Residents who aspire to upskill and make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals with hidden learning disabilities (like dyslexia and ADHD) who struggle to learn.
- Bachelor’s degree/ equivalent qualifications/ relevant work experience of 5 years in the field of special educational needs.
- Applicants can be from related sectors (E.g., general education, special needs, early childhood, social work, tuition) or unrelated sectors (e.g. finance, engineering, IT, marketing, unemployed).
FAQ
Enquiry form
Duration: 3 years (Part-time)
Fees: SGD 28,879.80
(GST included)
Intakes & Deadlines
– March Intake
– Apply by February
– June Intake
– Apply by April
– September Intake
– Apply by August
– November Intake
– Apply by October
This Specialist Diploma has been designed by the DAS Academy and is registered with the Committee for Private Education – part of SkillsFuture Singapore in Singapore as a part-time/full-time programme. This Specialist Diploma is also recognised by the Register of Educational Therapist (ASIA).
Discover an exciting learning journey with the DAS Academy and join us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of people with specific learning differences.
With more than 10 years of practical experience each, DAS Academy lecturers share their experiences in supporting children with learning differences.
Lecturers from the University of South Wales, United Kingdom will also visit during term-time for each module, ensuring that students receive a balanced view of their syllabus from both local and international perspectives.
Lesson formats engages students by having lively discussions and outside perspectives by guest lecturers will make for an enriching classroom experience for everyone.
The Specialist Diploma in Specific Learning Differences programme utilises a variety of classroom styles to provide the best learning environment for our students. These styles include: lecture-style teaching, group discussions, sharing sessions as well as invited guest lecturers who will share about their experiences in supporting individuals with special educational needs.
