Courses
Inclusive Practice
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course Details
Course Code | LY_VINCL_B |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 1/2 years |
Credits | 60 |
Method of Delivery | Blended |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time, Part Time |
Work placement | Yes |

Course Overview
This programme is designed for people working across a diverse range of professions including education, health and social care. Inclusive practice extends to all of these disciplines. This programme reflects an interdisciplinary approach, recognising that inclusive practices are relevant across various sectors and preparing graduates to work in diverse settings.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Design Principles for Universal ParticipationThis module aims to develop a deep understanding of the principles and practices that promote inclusivity across various contexts. Students will critically evaluate the implementation of universal design principles, analyse the range of supports available to marginalised or disadvantaged groups, and develop appropriate responses to support these individuals. Through reflection and by fostering a critical consciousness, students will explore inclusive strategies and work practices, recognising and challenging deficit thinking cycles that impact equal access. The module also covers the implications of policy and legislation on equality, inclusion, and accessibility, equipping students with the skills to design and develop targeted resources that support inclusive practices. Through learning about community engagement initiatives, students will be well-prepared to advocate for and implement inclusive practices in their professional and personal lives. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and recognise the impacts of marginalisation on specific groups. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Leadership and Development for Inclusive PracticeThis module examines the pivotal role of leadership in inclusive practice, emphasising the interplay between theory and practice in fostering equitable environments. It aims to build advanced skills for leading, managing, and innovating within diverse contexts and community settings. Through engagement with theoretical frameworks, evidence-based methodologies, and reflective practices, students will develop competencies in organisational leadership, strategic policy formulation, and inclusive, research-based strategies. A core focus is placed on developing and sustaining inclusion infrastructure, the systems, policies, and collaborative structures that underpin inclusive environments across interagency and interdisciplinary settings. This holistic approach prepares students to address the complex needs of diverse populations, driving inclusive and transformative change through leadership and development. Learning Outcomes 1. Define and critically evaluate inclusive practice, including its theoretical foundations, frameworks and relevance across educational, healthcare, community, interagency, and interdisciplinary settings. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Transformative Approaches to Inclusive PracticeThis module explores the theoretical underpinnings of transformative approaches to inclusive pedagogy and how these apply across diverse settings. Students will explore social justice theory, anti-bias, critical race theory, anti-oppression, intersectionality, interculturalism and cultural competency, analysing these theoretical frameworks alongside empirical case studies. Through engagement in discussions related to equity, diversity and access students will develop a depth of understanding in relation to the systemic barriers to inclusion faced by marginalised communities. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, students will be supported in designing and implementing inclusive interventions that support inclusion and belonging. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically evaluate transformative approaches in the context of marginalised communities and their effectiveness in addressing social inequalities. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Action Project Through Professional PracticeThis module supports students in applying theoretical knowledge to practical experience within a professional setting that actively creates the conditions where all individuals, particularly those from marginalised or under-represented groups, can participate meaningfully. Students will undertake an action-based project, involving the planning, implementing, and evaluating initiatives to improve access, participation, and outcomes for individuals or groups within the identified setting. Through this process, students will develop key professional skills, engage in reflective practice, and critically assess the effectiveness of inclusive approaches and active engagement. The module aligns with ethical and professional standards, emphasising responsibility, accountability, and the importance of ongoing professional development. Combining theory and practice prepares students for professional roles that support inclusivity and engagement. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply theoretical knowledge to practice by designing, implementing, and evaluating an action-based project. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Empowering Inclusive Participation for Healthier LifestylesThis module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and evaluate inclusive projects promoting physical and mental well-being, particularly for marginalised communities. Students will explore the principles of inclusion, understand marginalised groups' unique challenges, and learn contemporary approaches to promote meaningful participation in various activities. Through theoretical knowledge, practical application, and active engagement, students will develop strategies to create supportive environments that enhance all individuals' health, well-being, and social-emotional development. The module emphasises a Human Rights and strength-based approach, encouraging students to become advocates for inclusive practices. By collaborating with local communities, healthcare professionals, educators and social care workers, students will gain hands-on experience and insights into the importance of partnerships and collaborative efforts in promoting well-being and inclusion. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and discuss the sources of prejudice, perceptions, and stereotypes that have historically hindered the participation of individuals from marginalised communities in physical, non-physical and cognitive activities. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Research to Promote Inclusive PracticeThis module aims to build on students' prior knowledge of research, equipping with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research that promotes inclusive practices in a variety of settings. It offers a broad overview of the culture of research relevant to inclusion, and provides both theoretical foundations and an opportunity for practical application to prepare students to design a capstone research project. The module seeks to develop and apply students' grounding in research, enriching their understanding through further exposure to key debates in evidenced-based inclusive practice. Research ethics, professional standards and advocacy will be embedded in the context of learning throughout the module. Students will engage in an independent project, exploring workable methodologies from a range of disciplines to inform findings and approaches relating to inclusivity. They will critically evaluate existing research, identify gaps, and develop their own research questions. Through this process, students will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and creative opportunities in promoting inclusive practices and will be prepared to make unique contributions to the professional and academic communities through their research findings. Learning Outcomes 1. Formulate research questions that address issues of inclusivity. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Transitions ManagementCentring on effective and inclusive transition planning, the module explores the challenges and barriers individuals may encounter when developing skills and competencies for the world of work and community engagement. It offers a critical insight into various models of transition, policy and legislative frameworks, and best practices for transition planning processes and strategies across different professional sectors. The module is underpinned by values of rights, independence, choice, and control. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically analyse traditional and contemporary models of transitions from a rights-based perspective, evaluating outcomes for children and adults. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mental Health and Wellbeing in Contemporary ContextsThis module offers a comprehensive and critically reflective study of mental health and well-being across the lifespan. It traces the evolution of mental health concepts, critically engaging with historical, medicalised, and institutional approaches, while placing strong emphasis on contemporary, rights-based, and socially informed perspectives. Students will explore a wide range of psychological, social, cultural, and structural determinants that shape mental health outcomes in diverse populations and communities affected by trauma, discrimination, or marginalisation. The module challenges deficit-based thinking by foregrounding strengths-based, trauma-informed, recovery-oriented, and neuro-affirmative models. It integrates current research and theory with applied learning, preparing students to evaluate and implement evidence-informed interventions that promote psychological resilience, inclusion, and wellbeing in everyday practice. The module will draw connections between policy, lived experience, and ethical practice. Students will develop the capacity to support mental health across the lifespan in dynamic and person-centred ways across a range of educational, social care, community, and interdisciplinary settings. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the evolution of contemporary and historical approaches to understanding psychological well-being and mental health, evaluating foundational theories and their impact on modern practice. |
10 | Mandatory |
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Full time students will attend the full time programme delivered on-campus Mon-Fri 9.30 -17.30
Blended delivery on a part time basis comprises of up to two weekly evening engagements with weekend on campus workshops. Students can expect two weekend attendance requirements per module.
Progression
On successful completion of this programme students can apply for progression to a Level 9 programme.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Garda Vetting is a requirement for this programme.
Level 7 in Early Childhood (or equivalent), Health and Social Care (or equivalent) or BSc. in Inclusive Practice for Special Needs Assistance (or equivalent).
OR
Equivalent qualifications and scores from other countries will be assessed and scored by the university.
English Language Requirements will be as determined by ATU and as published in the Access, Transfer and Progression Policy. The current requirements are as follows:
Non-EU applicants who are not English speakers must have a minimum score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in each component) in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or equivalent. All results must have been achieved within 2 years of application to ATU.
EU applicants who are not English speakers are recommended to have a minimum score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in each component) in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or equivalent.
Careers
Graduates may expect to find opportunities in roles such as:
Advisors on Inclusive Practice
Classroom Assistant
SNA in Primary/Post-Primary setting
Special Schools and ASD classrooms
Assistive Technology Specialist
Life coach/mentor
Educational Consultant
Higher Education Disability Officer
Rehabilitation Specialist
Community Advocate
Disability Support Worker
Healthcare Advocate/Health Promotion
Criminal/Juvenile justice system
Homeless Sector
Further Information
Application Closing Date
Start Date
Who Should Apply?
This award is suitable for students with a Level 7 award in a relevant discipline (or equivalent) who wish to work or develop careers in the education, health and social care sectors to provide quality inclusive services for individuals in marginalised groups in an ever-evolving and diverse society.
Contact Information
Head of Department of Early Education and Social Studies
Dr Nigel McKelvey
E: EESS.Donegal@Atu.ie
Early Education & Social Studies