This M-Level specialist option is aimed at students who wish to develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to teach children with dyslexia. Dyslexic-type difficulties are recognised as being the largest single cause of literacy difficulties.
- ADDRESSING DIFFICULTIES IN LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
- UNDERSTANDING DIFFICULTIES IN LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
All modules listed are accredited by the British Dyslexia Association.
Click here for the BDA information leaflet.
Degree Outcomes
Full information on Degree outcomes for this pathway can be found here.
How will I study?
Teaching and learning is delivered fully online via virtual learning activities and classes. Students must ensure they have suitable technology to take part fully in the sessions – a home computer, headphones and microphone, web cam and Wi-Fi speed of at least 512 kbps.
Who will be teaching me?
You will be taught, assessed and supported by an exceptional team of internationally recognised, research-led and experienced practitioners.
How will I be assessed?
There are no written examinations. Modules are assessed by coursework.
Entitlement
A MEd, is awarded to students who have completed 180 CAT points at M-level. Students who have accumulated 60 points may graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate and those who have accumulated 120 points may graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma.
Programme Specification
For full programme specification click here
Download the Postgraduate Studies flyer here for more information on all programmes on offer.
To be awarded an MEd SEN Literacy, you will need to complete 180 CATs, which will normally comprise the four 30 CAT point taught modules plus a 60 CAT point final dissertation.
EDC9093 – FACTORS AFFECTING LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
SEPTEMBER 2025
Students will critically consider factors affecting the development of reading, spelling and writing from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Critical consideration will be given to how these areas are taught at both national and regional levels and the research evidence which has led to changes in pedagogy will be evaluated. Issues in the assessment of literacy difficulties using standardised assessment and informal methods will also be examined and debated, as will issues in the categorisation of special educational needs.
EDC9094 – INFORMAL ASSESSMENT OF LITERACY DIFFICULTIES AND MODELS OF INTERVENTION
JANUARY 2026
This module seeks to engage students in a comprehensive review of current thinking in the field of dyslexia and literacy difficulties, drawing on evidence from relevant research, literature and professional practice. Participants’ compare and contrast two specialist programmes of intervention to develop their practical knowledge and understanding of specialist intervention and the link between theory and practice.
EDC7069
SPECIFIC LITERACY DIFFICULTIES: ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING (30 CATS)
SEPTEMBER 2025 OR JANUARY 2026
This module focuses on the theory of psychometrics and the assessment of dyslexic-type difficulties. Student develop their understanding of test selection, administration, scoring and report writing to meet SASC criteria.
VALUE-ADDED ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE FOR THE AWARD OF ATS/APS & AMBDA
Students wanting to obtain ATS/APS must complete the value-added assessment of 20 hours of specialist teaching on a one-to-one basis, in addition to successful completion of EDC9093 and EDC9094.
Students wanting to obtain AMBDA must complete 32 hours of specialist teaching on a one-to-one basis (20 of these hours are completed for ATS) and the assessment of test administration, scoring and report writing (Part 1) in addition to successful completion of EDC9093, EDC9094 & EDC7069.
To enrol on the value -added course Test Administration, Scoring and Report Writing Part 1 students must have access to the WRIT, WIAT 111 T-UK (or similar attainment test to be agreed with the course leader) and CTOPP 2 or Dyslexia Portfolio.
To enrol on the optional value -added course Test Administration, Scoring and Report Writing Part 2 students must have access to the TOMAL 2, TOWRE 2 & SDMT.
Students must complete these value-added assessments within two years of completing the related modules to have eligibility to apply to the BDA for ATS/APS or AMBDA.
EDC7024 – RESEARCH METHODS
JUNE 2025, SEPTEMBER 2025 & JANUARY 2026
The Research Methods module must be completed before a student starts their dissertation. The module covers the areas required for effective educational research including; qualitative and quantitative research methods and techniques: the quasi experimental approach; psychometric techniques; research method selection; questionnaire design and analysis; research and project preparation; and reporting the findings.
EDC7030 – DISSERTATION
September 2025
Students who obtain AMBDA and complete their dissertation on an aspect of specific literacy difficulties will be awarded the degree title M.Ed in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) Assessment and Intervention. Students who obtain ATS and complete their dissertation on an aspect of literacy difficulties can exit with the title M.Ed in Addressing Difficulties in Literacy Development.
Click here for the BDA information leaflet.
All modules are 30 CATs unless otherwise started.
All Modules are taught online.
Full information on Degree outcomes for this pathway can be found here
Applicants will normally hold a relevant 2:2 Honours degree or above in a related discipline, and preferably a professional teaching qualification. Please note The British Dyslexia Association permit graduates who are not qualified teachers, but have relevant experience in an educational setting, to achieve APS (Approved Practitioner Status) and to proceed to work towards the award of AMBDA. It is important that applicants who are not qualified teachers understand that the degree does not give them QTS (qualified teacher status). Applicants who do not meet the requirements of a relevant 2:2 Honours degree or above in a related discipline will be considered on an individual basis, where there is evidence of relevant experience. Applicants may be required to attend an interview to determine their suitability for entry.
How to Apply
Please follow the link above – apply now.
A summer school option is available for Research Methods in June 2025 for returning students. The closing date is Friday 30th May.
The next intake for new students to the MEd Literacy programme is September 2025. Applications will open mid-June.
Please note this pathway only has one intake a year for new students in September.
Tuition Fees
| 2025 - 26 MEd /MA ECS/ MTeach | CATS Points | NI/ROI | GB | EU Other* | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate per module | 30 | £1,217 | £1,542 | £3,584 | £3,584 |
| Dissertation Module | 60 | £2,434 | £3,084 | £7,168 | £7,168 |
| Full-Time Course | 180 | £7,300 | £9,250 | £21,500 | £21,500 |
*EU Other – Students from the EU (excluding Republic of Ireland), other EEA and Swiss Nationals and their family members.
Tuition Fee loans are available for Postgraduate Study via Student Finance NI.
Additional Course Costs
There may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from the Library. However, If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the Library, prices per text typically range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
There may be costs associated with transport and materials for your dissertation research project and additional costs for printing and binding.
Additional accreditation fees apply on this pathway as follows:
Students must complete these value-added assessments within three years of completing the related modules to have eligibility to apply to the BDA for ATS/APS or AMBDA.
Teaching Route A (20 hours of teaching): £1250 (Compulsory for ATS)
Teaching Route B (32 hours of teaching): £1650 (This is an option for students who want to enrol at the outset on ATS and AMBDA)
Teaching Route C (12 hours of teaching for students who already have undertaken Teaching Route A and would like to work towards AMBDA): £750
Test Administration and Report Writing Part 1 (Compulsory for AMBDA): £1250
Test Administration and Report Writing Part 2 (optional): £1250
Please note costings for 25/26 may differ.
Loans are not available for additional accreditation, however payment in full or direct debit payment options are available. Please contact the College Finance Office for further information on studentfinance@stran.ac.uk
This M-Level specialist option is aimed at students who wish to develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to teach children with dyslexia. Dyslexic-type difficulties are recognised as being the largest single cause of literacy difficulties.
- ADDRESSING DIFFICULTIES IN LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
- UNDERSTANDING DIFFICULTIES IN LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
All modules listed are accredited by the British Dyslexia Association.
Click here for the BDA information leaflet.
Degree Outcomes
Full information on Degree outcomes for this pathway can be found here.
How will I study?
Teaching and learning is delivered fully online via virtual learning activities and classes. Students must ensure they have suitable technology to take part fully in the sessions – a home computer, headphones and microphone, web cam and Wi-Fi speed of at least 512 kbps.
Who will be teaching me?
You will be taught, assessed and supported by an exceptional team of internationally recognised, research-led and experienced practitioners.
How will I be assessed?
There are no written examinations. Modules are assessed by coursework.
Entitlement
A MEd, is awarded to students who have completed 180 CAT points at M-level. Students who have accumulated 60 points may graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate and those who have accumulated 120 points may graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma.
Programme Specification
For full programme specification click here
Download the Postgraduate Studies flyer here for more information on all programmes on offer.
To be awarded an MEd SEN Literacy, you will need to complete 180 CATs, which will normally comprise the four 30 CAT point taught modules plus a 60 CAT point final dissertation.
EDC9093 – FACTORS AFFECTING LITERACY DEVELOPMENT
SEPTEMBER 2025
Students will critically consider factors affecting the development of reading, spelling and writing from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Critical consideration will be given to how these areas are taught at both national and regional levels and the research evidence which has led to changes in pedagogy will be evaluated. Issues in the assessment of literacy difficulties using standardised assessment and informal methods will also be examined and debated, as will issues in the categorisation of special educational needs.
EDC9094 – INFORMAL ASSESSMENT OF LITERACY DIFFICULTIES AND MODELS OF INTERVENTION
JANUARY 2026
This module seeks to engage students in a comprehensive review of current thinking in the field of dyslexia and literacy difficulties, drawing on evidence from relevant research, literature and professional practice. Participants’ compare and contrast two specialist programmes of intervention to develop their practical knowledge and understanding of specialist intervention and the link between theory and practice.
EDC7069
SPECIFIC LITERACY DIFFICULTIES: ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING (30 CATS)
SEPTEMBER 2025 OR JANUARY 2026
This module focuses on the theory of psychometrics and the assessment of dyslexic-type difficulties. Student develop their understanding of test selection, administration, scoring and report writing to meet SASC criteria.
VALUE-ADDED ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE FOR THE AWARD OF ATS/APS & AMBDA
Students wanting to obtain ATS/APS must complete the value-added assessment of 20 hours of specialist teaching on a one-to-one basis, in addition to successful completion of EDC9093 and EDC9094.
Students wanting to obtain AMBDA must complete 32 hours of specialist teaching on a one-to-one basis (20 of these hours are completed for ATS) and the assessment of test administration, scoring and report writing (Part 1) in addition to successful completion of EDC9093, EDC9094 & EDC7069.
To enrol on the value -added course Test Administration, Scoring and Report Writing Part 1 students must have access to the WRIT, WIAT 111 T-UK (or similar attainment test to be agreed with the course leader) and CTOPP 2 or Dyslexia Portfolio.
To enrol on the optional value -added course Test Administration, Scoring and Report Writing Part 2 students must have access to the TOMAL 2, TOWRE 2 & SDMT.
Students must complete these value-added assessments within two years of completing the related modules to have eligibility to apply to the BDA for ATS/APS or AMBDA.
EDC7024 – RESEARCH METHODS
JUNE 2025, SEPTEMBER 2025 & JANUARY 2026
The Research Methods module must be completed before a student starts their dissertation. The module covers the areas required for effective educational research including; qualitative and quantitative research methods and techniques: the quasi experimental approach; psychometric techniques; research method selection; questionnaire design and analysis; research and project preparation; and reporting the findings.
EDC7030 – DISSERTATION
September 2025
Students who obtain AMBDA and complete their dissertation on an aspect of specific literacy difficulties will be awarded the degree title M.Ed in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) Assessment and Intervention. Students who obtain ATS and complete their dissertation on an aspect of literacy difficulties can exit with the title M.Ed in Addressing Difficulties in Literacy Development.
Click here for the BDA information leaflet.
All modules are 30 CATs unless otherwise started.
All Modules are taught online.
Full information on Degree outcomes for this pathway can be found here
Applicants will normally hold a relevant 2:2 Honours degree or above in a related discipline, and preferably a professional teaching qualification. Please note The British Dyslexia Association permit graduates who are not qualified teachers, but have relevant experience in an educational setting, to achieve APS (Approved Practitioner Status) and to proceed to work towards the award of AMBDA. It is important that applicants who are not qualified teachers understand that the degree does not give them QTS (qualified teacher status). Applicants who do not meet the requirements of a relevant 2:2 Honours degree or above in a related discipline will be considered on an individual basis, where there is evidence of relevant experience. Applicants may be required to attend an interview to determine their suitability for entry.
How to Apply
Please follow the link above – apply now.
A summer school option is available for Research Methods in June 2025 for returning students. The closing date is Friday 30th May.
The next intake for new students to the MEd Literacy programme is September 2025. Applications will open mid-June.
Please note this pathway only has one intake a year for new students in September.
Tuition Fees
| 2025 - 26 MEd /MA ECS/ MTeach | CATS Points | NI/ROI | GB | EU Other* | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate per module | 30 | £1,217 | £1,542 | £3,584 | £3,584 |
| Dissertation Module | 60 | £2,434 | £3,084 | £7,168 | £7,168 |
| Full-Time Course | 180 | £7,300 | £9,250 | £21,500 | £21,500 |
*EU Other – Students from the EU (excluding Republic of Ireland), other EEA and Swiss Nationals and their family members.
Tuition Fee loans are available for Postgraduate Study via Student Finance NI.
Additional Course Costs
There may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from the Library. However, If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the Library, prices per text typically range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
There may be costs associated with transport and materials for your dissertation research project and additional costs for printing and binding.
Additional accreditation fees apply on this pathway as follows:
Students must complete these value-added assessments within three years of completing the related modules to have eligibility to apply to the BDA for ATS/APS or AMBDA.
Teaching Route A (20 hours of teaching): £1250 (Compulsory for ATS)
Teaching Route B (32 hours of teaching): £1650 (This is an option for students who want to enrol at the outset on ATS and AMBDA)
Teaching Route C (12 hours of teaching for students who already have undertaken Teaching Route A and would like to work towards AMBDA): £750
Test Administration and Report Writing Part 1 (Compulsory for AMBDA): £1250
Test Administration and Report Writing Part 2 (optional): £1250
Please note costings for 25/26 may differ.
Loans are not available for additional accreditation, however payment in full or direct debit payment options are available. Please contact the College Finance Office for further information on studentfinance@stran.ac.uk