Ph.D. in Special Education

The Ph.D. in Special Education prepares special educators as innovators, teachers, leaders and researchers whose work contributes to enhancing the quality of life of exceptional learners and their families. This program provides the solid research foundation needed for the rapidly changing field of special education. Alumni of the program are currently employed as special education faculty, research scientists and special education administrators. Our program welcomes students from a variety of professional backgrounds, including those with classroom or related experience at different stages of their careers. Students may enroll full-time or part-time and progress through the program in a supportive cohort model that fosters collaboration, networking, and peer mentorship. We blend doctoral seminars, research methods, specialty coursework, and self-directed learning guided by a dedicated faculty advisor. You’ll complete a carefully sequenced series of core doctoral seminars in four key areas: research, teaching, collaboration, and leadership. You’ll also engage in courses focused on research and practice in special education, gaining skills in professional writing, research implementation, grant writing, leadership, and university teaching. These experiences will help you build professional portfolios, completed at two specified time points prior to the dissertation, that showcase your competencies and accomplishments.

The following criteria will be considered in the admission decision: GPA, Master’s degree in Special Education or a related field, high level of professionalism and potential for leadership, strong writing skills, experience with individuals with exceptional needs, years of teaching experience and clear career objectives related to obtaining a Ph.D. In your application, we require: Two official transcripts of all academic work attempted since high school indicating a GPA of 3.5 (on a scale of 4.0) in a graduate degree program. The GRE/MAT is no longer required for admission to the PhD Program. At least three references of someone who knows your current work and/or academic achievements in previous degree work.