Education, Psychology and Special Educational Needs (with Foundation Year)

This is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study at our Llandaff campus and leads directly into the degree course, which will be taught at our Cyncoed campus. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence, before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.

The Education, Psychology and Special Educational Needs degree is a unique applied programme offering an opportunity to examine educational issues and additional learning needs from psychological perspectives. The degree will provide you with an in-depth theoretical knowledge and the practical strategies needed to support a range of learners, including those with additional learning needs.

You will explore the varying fields of psychology and how they can contribute to our understanding of such things as social, emotional and physical development, additional learning needs, school behaviour, mental and biological processes of learning, and the influence of self-esteem and motivation on learning and achievement. There is also an emphasis throughout on the importance of critical thinking in the context of educational practice, and the development of interdisciplinary research skills.

You will be taught by staff who are highly experienced in each of the degree’s subject specialisms, and how they apply to a range of professional contexts.

Throughout this exciting degree you will undertake two work experience placements in a range of educational organisations, which can include special needs schools and specialist provisions within mainstream schools. These are essential components that make up two of the modules you will study, ensuring that you will graduate with valuable first-hand experience in professional work settings. You will also have opportunities to complete additional training and accredited courses, such as Autism Aware training, further enhancing your employability and career options.

There’s still time to secure an award-winning university experience at Cardiff Met, ranked a top 3 Welsh university (Uni Compare Rankings 2026).

Whatever your goals, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential through expert teaching and a supportive environment. Gain real-world experience via placements and live briefs, and graduate with the skills to make a positive impact.

Professionally accredited courses prepare you for the world of work, alongside year-round careers support, entrepreneurship opportunities and options to study abroad.

Cardiff is also one of the UK’s most affordable cities (NatWest Student Living Index 2025), offering vibrant food, nightlife, green spaces and more on a student budget.

Into sport? Cardiff Met is a leading UK university for student sport, supporting both academic and athletic success.