Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Special Educational Needs and Disability

The BA (Hons) Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) programme offers an exciting pathway into a rewarding career supporting children and adults with SEND. This four-year degree equips students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills required to make a genuine difference in areas such as family liaison, inclusion support, teaching assistance, and mentoring. The course provides an in-depth understanding of the theories, factors, and contexts that underpin SEND, while preparing learners for professional practice across education, health, psychology, and social work.

The foundation year route is available for students who wish to strengthen their knowledge and skills before progressing to stage one of the honours degree. This year allows learners to develop confidence, academic ability, and practical skills with extensive support from expert staff. The foundation year is particularly valuable for those planning a career change or seeking to explore aspects of SEND that are new to them. Degrees that include a foundation year are structured as continuous programmes, meaning students do not need to reapply once the first year has been successfully completed.

The University of Derby’s education programmes are recognised for excellence, with high student satisfaction reflected in national rankings, placing the institution among the top five for teaching according to the National Student Survey 2025.

The BA (Hons) Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) programme at the University of Derby is designed for students aspiring to build a meaningful career in SEND. Learners highlight the course’s engaging content, passionate tutors, and strong student support as key reasons for choosing the programme. The degree allows students to specialise in areas such as Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities while benefiting from inspiring classroom discussions that foster professional growth.

Students consistently report high satisfaction with the course, noting that it offers an enriching and transformative experience. Through a combination of academic study, practical placements, and interactive learning, the programme equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a genuine impact in the field of SEND.