MASTER OF Education PROGRAMME (m. ed.): 2012 - 2013

In September 2012, the School of Education will be offering year two of the MEd programme (PAC code, GYA47). Those with a relevant level 9 qualification (see below) are eligible to apply to this programme. Classes will take place on Wednesdays during term from 5-9pm, along with sessions during school mid-term breaks. For full information, and application procedures, please read the information below.

Programme description

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) is a part-time, modular and staged post-graduate programme. This two-stage structure enables participants to pursue their in-career professional development in a flexible manner in an era of lifelong learning. Stage one of the programme involves the completion of the one year part-time Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Education (PDPES) or an equivalent qualification. The M.Ed. (stage two in the pathway) involves the completion of a one year part-time research orientated programme. It combines a taught component (in research methodologies) with a research component which culminates in the production of a research dissertation.

Programme aims and objectives

The programme aims to provide participants with the opportunity to design and carry out educational research under supervision, to a high professional standard.  The taught courses in research methodologies are specifically designed to equip participants with the necessary research skills.  Teaching and learning strategies include lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars designed to:

• introduce participants to a range of research paradigms and methodologies   
• foster a systematic, critical and ethical approach to educational research
• develop practical research skills in the design of quantitative and qualitative research
• enable students to prepare and execute a viable research proposal
• induct participants in the methods of analysis of qualitative and quantitative data
• provide an opportunity for students to report on their own research
• develop advanced skills in academic writing and the effective use of the tools of research
• contribute to the development of reflective practitioners and researchers

With participants from a wide range of educational contexts and disciplines, the M.Ed. offers a dynamic learning environment that aims to foster collaborative and co-operative learning. The high level of involvement by staff of the School of Education in the programme is complemented by guest contributors providing accounts of the research experience. Given the nature of the programme, there is a strong emphasis on developing the capacity for self-directed learning and research, with appropriate support from academic staff and a personal supervisor.

Programme Structure

The programme combines a taught element with research in the field of education. It is comprised of two components, totalling 60 ECTS credits.

Assessment

Assessment is by means of a research portfolio (a number of assignments) and a minor dissertation of 20-25,000 words.

Programme fee, academic year 2011-2012

 E.U. students: €4,495.00                                          Non-E.U. students: €13,000

 Refer to Fees Office NUI, Galway to confirm fees for 2012/13.

Application Process

Applications to this programme are made online via the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC), http://www.pac.ie/. Relevant PAC application code GYA47. 

Guidelines on the Personal Statement

Please note: The School of Education, NUI Galway is not responsible for the content contained on external internet sites. 

Minimum entry requirements

1) Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Education Studies, Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs, Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Education Studies – School Planning, or equivalent (NQAI Level 9).

2) Honours standard in at least one of the following:

          (i)      Primary degree, or

          (ii)      Teaching qualification or equivalent, or

          (iii)     Level 9 qualification

3) Generally, two-three years professional experience is required.

Selection criteria

(i)  Applicant’s prior academic achievement on the qualifying awards and

(ii)  Content of the personal statement, to include an outline of the applicant’s research interest/s*.

Two references are required; one academic and one professional. 

* Applicants should familiarise themselves with the range of expertise and research interests of the members of staff in the School of Education prior to making their application.

******* Initial offers have now been issued. Applications will be accepted until 31 may 2012*******

Career opportunities

As a result of the strong professional orientation of the programme, completion of the Master in Education has enabled graduates to enhance their professional practice and contribute to the development of policy and practice in the education context within which they work and/or at national level. Graduates have followed career paths into positions in educational administration and leadership, regional/specialist support services or national organisations. Graduates are actively encouraged to disseminate their research through appropriate conference and/or publication opportunities and some have gone on to complete further research at PhD level.

The award of Master of Education will be made at

First Class Honours (H1)                          70 - 100%

Second Class Honours, Grade 1 (H2.1)     60 - 69%

Second Class Honours, Grade 2 (H2.2)     50 - 59%                                                        

Pass                                                      40 - 49%

for performance at the requisite level.   

For further information, please contact:

Dr Elaine Keane, Programme Director

Office:  Room 6, 14, University Road.

Tel:  Internal: 3032.  External: 353 (0)91 493032

Email:  elaine.keanenuigalway.ie   

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