- 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
MA SEN/ALN
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 |
|---|---|
| Dyslexia: Theory and Assessment ED4U027 (30 credits) | Lectures (live online learning): 15 – 19 Mar 2027 9:30 am – 4:30 pm |
| Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD ED4U019 (30 credits) | Lectures: 3 Jun 2026 (In-person) 4 Jun 2026 (live online learning) 5 Jun 2026 (asynchronous) 6 Jun 2026 (live online learning) |
| Working with Dyslexia: Linking Theory, Assessment and Practice ED4U034 (30 credits) | Lectures (live online learning): Followed by a practicum, to be completed within 6 months |
| SEN/ ALN: Contexts and Concepts ED4U032 (30 credits) | Lectures (live online learning): 23 – 27 Nov 2026 9:30 am – 4:30 pm |
Research Methodology (RM) (To be taken after all other taught modules) | Lectures: 14 Sep 2026 (In-person) |
Dissertation (To be taken after Research Methodology) | 1-Day Induction (live online learning): 26 Mar 2026 9:30 am – 1 pm |
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%.
The assessment is typically a written assignment, submitted at the end of each module.
- 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 ED4U027 (30 Credits) | 15 – 19 Mar 2027 | 1 Feb 2027 |
| Managing and Supporting CAMH and SEBD ED4U019 (30 Credits) | 2 – 6 Jun 2026 | 15 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 2026 | 12 Oct 2026 |
Research Methodology (RM) (To be taken after all other taught modules) (Pre-requisite for Dissertation) | 7 – 11, 14 Sep 2026 | 27 Jul 2026 |
Dissertation (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.
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
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of $109 (GST included) will apply.
For more details, please call us at 6336 2555 or email info@dasacademy.edu.sg
Empowering Mid-Career Professionals to Lead in Special Education
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:
- Cultivate specialist skills to support diverse learners
- Channel your experience into a purposeful new career
- Join a community of passionate changemakers
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:
- 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
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.
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) |
Scholarship value and fee breakdown
- 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.
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
- A Scholarship Referee Report
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;
- Make a recommendation for the scholarship applicant based on his or her ability to contribute to the SEN community (I recommend, I strongly recommend, I do not recommend, I am unable to comment…)
- Complete proposal plan for giving back to the DAS community. (Download form here). 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.
The DAS – DAS Academy Scholarship supports aspiring professionals in their journey toward a meaningful career in the Special Educational Needs (SEN) sector. To ensure a strong foundation and commitment to the field, recipients are expected to fulfil the following 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.
2. Service Contribution
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.
3. Biannual Impact Reporting
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.
4. Programme Completion
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
5. Scholarship Conditions & Clawback Clause
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
Duration: 3 years (Part-time)
Programme Fee: SGD 28,879.80 (GST included)
Application Fee: SGD 109.00 (GST included)
Intakes & Deadlines
– March Intake
– Apply by February
– June Intake
– Apply by April
– September Intake
– Apply by August
– November Intake
– Apply by October
Endorsed by Singapore’s Social Service Institute, DAS Academy stands at the forefront of SEN training. With a proven track record and deep domain expertise, we’re the go-to institution for professionals seeking excellence in inclusive education.
Our lecturers don’t just teach — they’ve lived it. With years of hands-on experience in the field, they bring real-world insights into the classroom, making complex theories practical, relatable, and impactful.
Our courses are tailored to the unique needs of Asian classrooms. As pioneers in Singapore’s inclusive education movement since 2005, we bring cultural relevance and local insight to every learning experience.
We believe every learner can thrive — with the right design. That’s why our programmes remove instructional barriers, empowering individuals through thoughtful, inclusive course design that adapts to diverse learning needs.