doctoral programs in special education

Top 20 PhD Programs in Special Education

Reviewed by Mary McLaughlin, Special Education Teacher; M.S. SpEd

Heading to graduate school for a Doctor of Philosophy is an option worth considering for special educators seeking career advancement. The PhD in Special Education is a terminal degree that provides the highest level of research-based methods for studying and developing new pedagogical tools that improve outcomes for exceptional children. Many PhD graduates enter faculty positions in higher education to teach tomorrow’s teachers. The BLS predicts faster-than-average job growth in academia at 13 percent through 2024. University-level education professors report a mean annual wage of $70,260. Education PhD holders could also become special education directors, school principals , curriculum developers, superintendents, and childcare administrators.

Therefore, we’ve constructed the following list of the Top 20 Ph.D. Special Education Programs in the United States. We consulted with the U.S. News and World Report rankings to narrow down the best campus-based colleges for graduate teaching degrees. We visited the website for each high-ranking school to find Ph.D. programs, which are more scientific and lab-oriented than Ed.D. degrees. Our ranking favored programs offering several degree specializations. Special priority was given to teacher programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or similar entities. Other conditions considered were doctoral tuition support, graduate assistantships, student-faculty ratio, admission selectivity, academic rigor, and dissertation opportunities.

1. University of Wisconsin – Madison

Image Source

As a “Public Ivy,” land-grant institution with RU/VH status, the University of Wisconsin-Madison stands upon 936 urban acres along Lake Monona to educate over 13,800 post-graduates. The U.S. News applauded UW-Madison for the third best graduate education school nationally. Within the NCATE-accredited School of Education, advanced cohorts of four to eight students pursue the 56-credit Special Education Ph.D. program yearly. Over $50 million in extramural funding supports dissertations in the Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER).

Doctoral Tuition: $791 (in-state) or $1,623 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Wisconsin – Madison here.

2. Columbia University

Endowed for $9.04 billion, Columbia University is a private, Ivy League AAU member founded in 1754 before the Declaration of Independence that’s now enrolling around 19,500 post-grads on 299 urban acres in Upper Manhattan. The U.S. News ranked Columbia’s Teachers College seventh nationally for best graduate education. Special educators have several doctoral options, including a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis, Ph.D. in Intellectual Disability/Autism & Severe/Multiple Disabilities, or Ph.D. in Deaf and Hard of Hearing, with CAEP approval.

Doctoral Tuition: $9,072 (half-time) or $18,144 (full-time) per semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Columbia University here.

3. Vanderbilt University

Attracting 5,800 post-grads from 90 foreign countries, Vanderbilt University is a private, nonprofit RU/VH institution in the 568 Group that’s located on a 330-acre urban campus in Middle Tennessee near midtown Nashville. According to the U.S. News, the Peabody College is tied for America’s seventh best graduate education school. The NCATE-accredited Ph.D. in Special Education provides four tracks: Early Childhood, High Incidence, Severe Disabilities, and Visual Impairments. Doctoral candidates also contribute to Vanderbilt’s premier Kennedy Center Research on Human Development.

Doctoral Tuition: $1,854 per credit hour

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Vanderbilt University here.

4. University of Washington

Affiliated with seven Nobel Prize laureates, the University of Washington is a public, land-grant APRU institution in the Pac-12 Conference that’s endowed for $2.9 billion and serving over 14,600 post-grad Huskies from 703 acres in Seattle. The U.S. News placed the UW College of Education ninth nationally for graduate teaching programs. Offering tuition waivers and $1,700 monthly stipends, the Ph.D. in Special Education degree has three specializations: High- and Low-Incidence Disabilities, Secondary Education, and Applied Behavior Analysis.

Doctoral Tuition: $5,992 (in-state) or $10,404 (out-of-state) per quarter

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Washington here.

5. University of Texas at Austin

Led by president Gregory L. Fenves, the University of Texas at Austin occupies 434 urban acres as a flagship public, space-grant RU/VH institution with 11,350 post-graduates. UT-Austin has America’s 11th best graduate education according to the USNWR. Linked to the Texas Center for Disability Studies, the Ph.D. in Special Education program lets Longhorns choose from four concentrations: Autism & Developmental Disabilities, Early Childhood Special Education, Learning Disabilities & Behavioral Disorders, or Multicultural Special Education.

Doctoral Tuition: $5,062 (in-state) or $9,232 (out-of-state) each semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin here.

6. New York University

New York University is a private, nonprofit RU/VH institution with an $8.04 billion budget to educate over 24,300 post-grad Violets from a 230-acre urban campus in Greenwich Village. Founded in 1890, NYU’s Steinhardt School was ranked 13th nationally for best graduate education by the U.S. News. Holding CAEP accreditation, the 60-credit Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning program offers a Special Education emphasis. Students work with poverty-impacted children at 25 partnering schools in East Harlem and South Bronx.

Doctoral Tuition: $10,390 (half-time) or $20,368 (full-time) per year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at New York University here.

7. University of Oregon

Boasting over 195,000 living alumni, including Columbia’s President Lee Bollinger, the University of Oregon is a flagship public, Pac-12 RU/VH institution endowed for $758 million on a 295-acre urban campus in Eugene along the Willamette. The U.S. News ranked the UO College of Education 14th nationally. Linked with the award-winning Pearl Duck Autism Center, the Ph.D. in Special Education offers five emphases in Positive Behavior Support, Low-Incidence Disabilities, Early Intervention, Prevention & Academic Intervention, and Secondary/Transition Services.

Doctoral Tuition: $16,602 (in-state) or $27,591 (out-of-state) each year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Oregon here.

8. University of Kansas

Chartered in 1864 after “Bleeding Kansas” ended, the University of Kansas is a flagship public, land-grant AAU member with a $1.86 billion endowment and 28,100 Jayhawks enrolled on its spacious 1,100-acre urban campus on Mount Oread. Kansas placed 17th for best graduate education school according to the U.S. News. Taking a scientific-practitioner model, the Ph.D. in Special Education maintains CAEP accreditation for six specializations, such as Early Childhood Unified, Instruction Design and Technology, and Special Education Policy.

Doctoral Tuition: $402 (in-state) or $909 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Kansas here.

9. Ohio State University

Reporting $652 million in research expenditures, Ohio State University is a public, sea-grant RU/VH institution contributing to the Big Ten Academic Alliance with over 13,500 post-grad Buckeyes studying on its 1,765-acre headquarters in Columbus. The U.S. News ranked the NCATE-accredited College of Education and Human Ecology 18th nationwide. In Ramseyer Hall, students begin the 63-credit Ph.D. in Educational Studies, Special Education program every Autumn with self-designed specializations like Applied Behavior Analysis or Urban Issues in Special Education.

Doctoral Tuition: $12,888 (in-state) or $33,334 (out-of-state) each year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Ohio State University here.

10. University of California – Berkeley

Created under the Dwinelle Bill of 1868, the University of California-Berkeley is a public, land-grant IARU member noted for the Free Speech Movement that’s teaching 10,800 post-grad Golden Bears across its 1,232 urban acres in Alameda County. The Berkeley Graduate School of Education was tied for 18th nationally by the U.S. News. Partnering with San Francisco State University, the Joint Doctoral Program in Special Education offers a Ph.D. and access to the UC SPEDDR Center for Research.

Doctoral Tuition: $11,220 (in-state) or $26,322 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of California – Berkeley here.

11. University of Virginia

Since becoming the South’s first AAU member in 1904, the University of Virginia has grown its $5.85 billion endowment as a flagship public, land-grant RU/VH institution to engage over 6,500 post-grad Cavaliers upon its 1,682-acre historic campus in Charlottesville. UVA’s Curry School of Education holds CAEP accreditation as the 18th best teacher educator nationwide according to the U.S. News. Advanced cohorts can enter the 72-credit Ph.D. in Special Education program specialized in High-Incidence Disabilities or Gifted/Talented Education.

Doctoral Tuition: $15,224 (in-state) or $25,174 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Virginia here.

12. Michigan State University

Split into 17 colleges with 11,400 post-grad Spartans total, Michigan State University is a public, land-grant and sea-grant RU/VH powerhouse with a $2.25 billion endowment that occupies 5,200 acres on the Red Cedar River in East Lansing. The U.S. News applauded MSU for America’s 21st best graduate education degrees. Within the CAEP-accredited College of Education, there’s a 67-credit Special Education Ph.D. program available. Doctoral students conduct dissertations in state-of-the-art labs like the Research on Teaching and Learning Institute.

Doctoral Tuition: $698 (in-state) or $1,372 (out-of-state) per credit

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Michigan State University here.

13. University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Sitting atop a 2,730-acre urban campus in Minneapolis-St. Paul overlooking the Mississippi River, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is a public, land-grant and space-grant BTAA member with nearly 15,900 post-grad Golden Gophers enrolled. Minnesota’s CAEP-accredited College of Education & Human Development is ranked 21st nationally by the U.S. News. Teachers could earn the 69-credit Special Education Ph.D. degree on-campus. Several are recruited for the National Center for Leadership in Intensive Intervention (NCLii) Fellowships.

Doctoral Tuition: $8,120 (in-state) or $12,560 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities here.

14. University of Illinois – Chicago

Easily accessed from the UIC-Halsted Blue Line, the University of Illinois-Chicago is a public, state-funded GCU Coalition member that will “Teach, Research, Serve” with 11,400 post-grad Flames yearly from 244 urban acres on Chicago’s Near West Side. Illinois was ranked 24th for best graduate education by the U.S. News. Adhering to NCATE standards, the 96-hour Ph.D. in Special Education offers practice in the UIC Educational Assessment Clinic and research in the Center for Urban Education Leadership.

Doctoral Tuition: $5,740 (in-state) or $11,860 (out-of-state) each semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Illinois – Chicago here.

15. Utah State University

Established in 1888 from Anthon H. Lund’s vision, Utah State University is a public, land-grant and space-grant RU/VH institution drawing over 3,900 post-grad Aggies from the “Beehive State” and beyond to its 400-acre suburban campus in Logan. According to the U.S. News, USU’s Emma Eccles Jones College is the 26th best graduate education school. Special educators could pursue the 70-credit Disability Disciplines Doctoral Program for seven Ph.D. specializations, including Applied Behavior Analysis, Rehabilitation Counseling, and Special Education.

Doctoral Tuition: $3,138 (in-state) or $9,793 (out-of-state) per term

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Utah State University here.

16. University of Connecticut

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Connecticut here.

Belonging to Universitas 21 Global with Ohio State, the University of Connecticut is a public, land-grant, space-grant RU/VH hub located on 4,400 rural acres in Storrs to educate 8,300 post-grad Huskies in New England’s Knowledge Corridor. The NCATE-accredited Neag School of Education has America’s 27th best graduate degrees according to the U.S. News. Full-time students could earn full-tuition coverage for the Ph.D. in Special Education tracks for Literacy Supports, Positive Behavior Supports, Postsecondary Transition, or Early Childhood.

Doctoral Tuition: $7,998 (in-state) or $18,516 (out-of-state) each semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Connecticut University here.

17. University of Pittsburgh

Positioned on 132 urban acres in Western Pennsylvania’s Schenley Farms Historic District, the University of Pittsburgh is a public, land-grant RU/VH center tracing back to 1787 that’s endowed for $3.52 billion and educating 9,800 post-grad Panthers. The NCATE-accredited School of Education is tied for 27th place according to the U.S. News. Special educators have three doctoral options: the Ph.D. in Early Intervention, Ph.D. in Education of Students with Mental & Physical Disabilities, or Ph.D. in Vision Studies.

Doctoral Tuition: $21,260 (in-state) or $34,944 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Pittsburgh here.

18. University of Florida

Continuously operating in Gainesville since 1906, the University of Florida is a public, land-grant and sea-grant RU/VH superpower with a $1.46 billion endowment and more than 16,200 post-grad Gators gobbling knowledge on its 2,000-acre suburban campus. The U.S. News ranked UF 29th for best graduate education programs. With NCATE accreditation, the 90-hour Ph.D. in Special Education gives research-oriented training in cutting-edge institutes like the CEEDAR Center. Doctoral candidates could add the Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia or Disabilities in Society.

Doctoral Tuition: $12,740 (in-state) or $30,134 (out-of-state) per year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of Florida here.

19. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Under Chancellor Carol Folt’s leadership, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill educates more than 10,600 post-grad Tar Heels as a public, land-grant SURA member with a $2.89 billion endowment and sprawling 729-acre urban campus near Raleigh. The CAEP-accredited School of Education stood out for America’s 31st best graduate degrees on the U.S. News survey. The 64-credit Ph.D. in Education program offers an Applied Developmental Sciences and Special Education track with emphases like Autism and Early Childhood.

Doctoral Tuition: $11,940 (in-state) or $29,150 (out-of-state) each year

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill here.

20. Indiana University – Bloomington

Occupying a 1,937-acre urban campus atop Salem Limestone near Giffy Lake Nature Preserve, Indiana University-Bloomington is a public, land-grant URA research institution endowed for $1.98 billion that’s training 10,150 post-grad Hoosiers. According to the U.S. News, the NCATE-accredited W.W. Wright School of Education has the 32nd best graduate teaching degrees. Admitting each January, the Ph.D. in Special Education program grants seven unique specializations, such as Family Supportive Practices, Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders Intervention.

Doctoral Tuition: $4,002 (in-state) or $12,161 (out-of-state) per semester

Learn more about the Top PhD Programs in Special Education at Indiana University – Bloomington here.

All schools shown here have been contacted and informed of their inclusion on this list. Schools that do not wish to be featured are immediately removed. School names are the registered trademarks of their original owners. The use of any trade name or trademark does not imply any association with the school.

Become a Special Education Teacher

Ph.D. in Special Education

What you can earn, credits earned, time commitment, upcoming deadline, our graduates are leaders and change agents.

The Special Education Doctoral Program is more than a traditional Ph.D. It's a transformative journey designed to create special education leaders who bring systemic change to educational and community settings. With a strong focus on inclusive education, we will prepare you with the skills, knowledge and relationships needed to drive structural and systemic change.

You'll craft a tailored program of study, blending advanced coursework in special education with diverse perspectives from outside disciplines. Our apprenticeship-style model combines face-to-face learning with real-world experiences, ensuring you're ready for impactful roles in research, teaching and service.

• We are a community that values the range of strengths, interests, and career goals that lead one to pursue a Ph.D. in special education
• We approach our work with a spirit of inquiry and collaboration, leading to differentiated experiences with each student
• We view doctoral graduates as leaders and change agents, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and relationships for advancing structural change

Our faculty specialize in the following areas:

• Research methodologies in special education (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, single case design)
• Teacher education and ongoing professional learning of special educators
• Intersectional issues of and approaches to addressing educational (in)justice
• Early intervention and early childhood 
• Critical and disability studies perspectives on inclusive education 
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Literacy and reading instruction for individuals with disabilities
• Mathematics learning disabilities (dyscalculia)
• Positive behavior interventions and supports, social emotional learning, and multi-tiered systems of support
• Supporting learners with disabilities in inclusive settings  

What you'll learn

In our program, you'll delve deep into specialized topics within special education and master research traditions, explore the historical and theoretical underpinnings of the field and construct meaningful research designs. You'll gain expertise in addressing the critical issues that affect children/youth (birth-21) and their families: access, inclusion and equity

After graduation

Upon graduation, our Ph.D. alumni go on to shape the future of special education. Whether as faculty members, researchers or leaders in educational institutions, they drive innovation and advocate for equitable access. Our graduates impact communities locally, nationally and even internationally.

Let's connect

We're excited that you're interested in our program! By joining our mailing list, you can receive updates on info sessions, deadlines, financial aid and more!

Connect with us

For additional information or questions regarding the doctoral degree, please email [email protected] or Maggie Beneke, Program Director .

Our program is designed to be both flexible and comprehensive. While most students complete their Ph.D. in 4-5 years, we understand that each academic journey is unique. You'll work closely with advisors to tailor your program, focusing on areas of research specialization that align with your goals and interests.

Within the first year of study, each student enrolls in the Educational Inquiry series with other first-year doctoral students across the College of Education. This helps you learn more about research traditions in educational research.

Special education doctoral students also enroll in a seminar which supports your:

• Understanding of the historical and theoretical background of special education
• Writing of a literature review related to a topic of interest
• Constructing of a research design

Admission requirements and process

As one of the top-rated doctoral programs in the U.S., we have more applicants than we can admit. Please pay close attention to all admission requirements. We also strongly encourage you to contact individual faculty members whose work aligns with your interests. Finding a fit with an advisor is critical to the admissions process.

To meet the individualized needs of students and advisors, our acceptance rate may vary. We generally accept annual cohorts of roughly 5-8 students.

Application deadlines are usually in January of each year for incoming fall cohorts.

Your degree can be in-progress when applying but must be completed before program starts

• Include one from each institution from which you've earned a degree and one from every institution you have attended in the previous 5 years.
• Your transcripts must include your name, coursework and degree (if completed)
• If you are offered admission , the UW Graduate School will request an official transcript from your most recent degree earned

The UW Graduate School requires a cumulative GPA of 3.0, or 3.0 for your most recent 90 graded quarter credits (60 semester credits). However, we review your application holistically. If your GPA is below 3.0, contact us at [email protected] for advice on how to strengthen your overall application.

During the online application process, you will be given instructions for adding your recommenders and getting their letters submitted electronically. All recommenders must submit their letters online.

A current academic and professional resume or vita is required. In addition to educational degrees and professional experience, you should include a listing of all relevant awards, publications, presentations or other achievements that will help us evaluate your application.

The admissions committee uses your statement of purpose, along with other evidence, to determine whether your goals are well-matched with our programs. Your statement should address goals, relevant experience, future plans and how the desired specific program meets your needs. Be sure to include personal experiences that have prepared you for the challenge of graduate school, topics like:

• Scholarly interests
• Career goals
• Your match for the program
• Faculty interests

Your statement should be 3-5 pages, double-spaced.

While optional, you can add to your application by submitting a personal history statement with each application. This statement should address your intellectual growth and development, inclusive of and beyond your academic goals. Speak to topics like:

• Educational, cultural and economic opportunities and disadvantages you've experienced
• Ways these experiences affected the development of your special interests, career plans and future goals.
• Any additional topics requested on a specific program's page

Statements should be no longer than two pages long. And while there are no standard formatting requirements, we encourage double-spaced text with a legible font.

• Gather all required documents
• Visit the Graduate School website
• Log into your account or create a new profile if you are a first-time applicant
• Complete all steps in application process and upload your documents
• You may request a fee waiver during the application process
• Submit your application

Here is our general timeline for decisions. Have questions about the process? Visit our graduate admissions page .

Step 1: Application processing

• Within 7 business days after the deadline, we will check if your application if fully complete
• We will email you whether your application is complete or incomplete
• If your application is missing anything, you will have a short amount of time submit these items
• You can also log into the online application and check your status and see any missing items

Step 2: Application review

• Committees begin reviewing applications about three weeks after the deadline
• You will receiving an email when your application has entered the review phase

Step 3: Decision notification

• The final decision will be emailed to you
• Your status will also be updated in the online application

We value and welcoming applications from international students! If you are applying from outside the United States, there are additional requirements and application materials.

• At minimum, you must have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree (a four-year degree from an institution of recognized standing)
• The national system of education in the foreign country
• The type of institution
• The field of study and level of studies completed
• If a transcript is in English, you can upload the transcript in the online application.
• If the degree is on a separate certificate, you will need to upload this as well. An evaluation from a 3rd party is not needed for this.
• All transcripts and degree conferral documents that are in a language other than English must be accompanied by certified English translation and must be in the same format as the original(s).

Per  UW Graduate School policy , you must submit a demonstration of English language proficiency if your native language is not English and you did not earn a degree in one of the following countries:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Trinidad and Tobago

The following tests are accepted if the test was taken fewer than two years ago:

• Minimum score: 80
• Recommended score: 92+
• The UW's 4-digit code is 4854
• University of Washington All Campuses, Organisation ID 365, Undergrad & Graduate Admis, Box 355850, Seattle, WA, 98105, United States of America
• Minimum score: 6.5
• Recommended score: 7.0+
• School information for submission: University of Washington, All Campuses Undergraduate & Graduate Admission Box 355850 Seattle, WA 98195
• Minimum score: 105
• Recommended score: 125+
• Follow the instructions on the Duolingo website to submit your scores

If you apply and are offered admission to UW, you will need to submit a statement of financial ability.

Costs and funding

We are a tuition-based program. Estimated tuition rates are based on your residency: 

• Washington state residents: $19,584 per year
• Out-of-state students: $35,352 per year

Estimates are subject to change and may differ due to course load and summer quarter enrollment. Estimates include building fees, technology fees, U-Pass, etc. Additional program-specific fees are not included in this estimate.

View the UW tuition dashboard → Visit the Office of Planning & Budgeting →

Currently, nearly all students seeking funding are supported throughout their program. Our special education program and associated research centers strive to fund each student throughout their program. Funding is contingent upon various factors including levels of funding, student prior experience (e.g., practical experience as a former teacher or therapist), enrollment status as a full-time student, and student performance.

Graduate Student General Scholarships

Frequently asked questions.

Your primary consideration should be specialization and fit with a potential advisor based on your research interests and career goals. We strongly encourage you to review the faculties’ areas of specialization, read faculty bios, and contact individual faculty about your interests in pursuing a special education doctoral degree at UW.

There are a number of supports and affinity spaces for graduate students within and beyond the College of Education. These include (among others):

• Associated Students of the College of Education
• Center for Communication, Difference, and Equity
• Disability Resources for Students
• The D Center
• Indigenous Wellness Research Institute
• Intellectual House
• Latino Center for Health
• Native Organization of Indigenous Scholars
• Office of Student Diversity and Inclusion
• Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center
• Washington Institute for the Study of Inequality and Race
• Women of Color Collective
• Women’s Center
• Writing Center

Seattle is a city of self-starters who believe that anything is possible when we work together. We’re adventurous and entrepreneurial, caffeinated and connected. This global hub for innovation is an international epicenter for turning ideas into actions, and the UW is at the heart of it. Whether you’re into art or food, history or tech, city living or the outdoors, there’s a community for you here.

We hold a virtual interview process for applicants with competitive applications. You are welcome to schedule a visit on your own - please let us know if you are planning to come! The College of Education also holds annual Admitted Student Day in the spring. Once applicants are admitted, advisors may apply for funds to support student visits. If you have been admitted and are interested in visiting, we encourage you to speak with your advisor about applying for student visit funds.

As one of the top-rated doctoral programs in the U.S., we have more applicants than we can admit. Please review admission requirements. Beyond the application requirements, finding a fit with an advisor or advisor(s) is critical to the admissions process. Again, we strongly encourage you to contact individual faculty members whose work aligns with your interests.

To meet the individualized needs of students and advisors, our acceptance rates vary. We generally accept annual cohorts of roughly 5-8 students.

Our application deadline is usually in January of each year for incoming autumn quarter cohort.

No. The doctoral program is designed for face-to-face coursework and experiences. Such an apprenticeship model is critical for doctoral preparation in the areas of research, teaching, and service. 

Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Special Education go on to a range of careers locally, nationally, and internationally. Graduates go on to careers as faculty members, researchers, or leaders in school districts, state agencies, or educational businesses.

Program Director

Angel Fettig

Program faculty.

Maggie Beneke

Carol Davis

Alice Bravo

Roxanne Hudson

Katherine Lewis

Kathleen Artman Meeker

Charles Peck

Selma Powell

Carly Roberts

Nancy Rosenberg

Ilene Schwartz

Scott Spaulding

• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Teacher Certification Options
• International Admissions Information
• 50% Master’s and CAS Scholarships
• Baldanza Fellows Program
• Project IMPRESS
• Project IMMERSE
• Undergraduate Leadership Scholarship
• Endowed Scholarships
• Undergraduate Majors and Minors
• Master’s Programs
• Certificates of Advanced Study
• Doctoral Degree Programs
• Online, Hybrid, and Flexible Programs
• Career Services and Certification
• For Families and Supporters
• Learning Communities
• Student Organizations
• Undergraduate Peer Advisors
• Bridge to the City
• Engaged BIPOC Scholar-Practitioner Program
• Field Placements & Internships
• Orange Holmes Scholars
• Spector/Warren Fellowship
• Study Abroad
• Research News
• Faculty Bookshelf
• Faculty Publications
• Grants & Awards
• Doctoral Dissertations
• Research Resources and Support
• Office of Professional Research and Development
• Atrocity Studies Annual Lecture
• Antiracist Algebra Coalition
• Ganders Lecture Series
• InquiryU@Solvay
• Intergroup Dialogue Program
• Otto’s Fall Reading Kickoff
• Psycho-Educational Teaching Laboratory
• The Study Council
• USASMA Fellowship Program
• Writing Our Lives
• Center for Academic Achievement and Student Development
• Center on Disability and Inclusion
• Center for Experiential Pedagogy and Practice
• Latest News
• Upcoming Events
• Education Exchange Magazine
• Get Involved
• Ambassador Program
• Advisory Committees
• Advisory Board
• Tolley Medal
• Administration
• From the Dean
• Convocation
• Accreditation
• Request Info
• 50% Master's and CAS Scholarships
• Grants & Awards

Special Education, Ph.D.

• Admissions & Financial Aid
• Requirements

The doctoral degree in special education examines critical issues in special and inclusive education, and prepares our graduates to become advocates and change agents for full inclusion in policy and academic settings.

Full tuition scholarships, competitive stipends, and tailored mentoring and cohort experiences available for Special Education Ph.D. applicants through Project IMMERSE .

This program invites expansive thinking on critical educational issues as well as in-depth study. You will select a concentration in either Inclusive Educational Studies or Disability Studies and Policy, and then work with faculty to engage in cutting edge research in inclusive education and policy. Opportunities are available for conducting in-service seminars and collaborating with faculty members in research, teaching, and grant writing.

Application Deadline: January 15 | More admissions information

Syracuse University has a long tradition of leadership in the field of special education and is recognized nationally and internationally. Syracuse was among the first universities to bring attention to the educational needs of students with disabilities and to effectively develop and refine assessment and educational strategies for diverse learners. Syracuse faculty and students continue this important legacy of promoting the rights of students with disabilities.

Expertise in teaching and instruction is also developed with the department and with participation in the Future Professoriate Program . This includes orientations, year-round services for teaching assistants, and opportunities to co-teach with fellow doctoral students and department faculty, guest lecture, and independent instruction.

Our graduates hold prestigious leadership positions in special education and related fields, including careers in higher education, as researchers, government/policy specialists, public and private agency/organization directors, program developers, or as special education consultants and advocates. The majority of our graduates secure tenure track faculty positions at colleges and universities.

I chose to pursue my Ph.D. in special education at Syracuse because as I was working in schools around the country, I saw a real lack of understanding from teachers of what research and best practice say regarding inclusive education of disabled students-particularly students with intellectual disabilities. This led me to develop a passion for teacher preparation and ensuring all teachers are prepared to educate ALL students. Post Ph.D. I plan to become a teacher preparation program professor where I can continue researching and supporting undergraduate pre-service teachers to become truly inclusive educators.

Recent student dissertations include:

• Struggles of Korean Americans Labeled with Intellectual Disabilities to Claim Adult Status , Eun Young Jung
• Opening the Doors: A Collaborative and Digital Exploration of Inclusive Secondary Classrooms , Kate MacLeod
• Inclusive Education in Practice: District-Level Special Education Administrators’ Leadership , Chelsea Tracy-Bronson
• The Tensions of Northern Imports: Disability and Inclusion in Kenyan Primary Education , Brent Elder
• Blazing Trails, Being Us: A Narrative Inquiry with Five High School Students with Autism who Type to Communicate , Casey Woodfield
• Implementation of School-wide Positive Behavior Supports in the Neoliberal Context in an Urban Elementary School , D.L. Adams
• Trying Times: Disability, Activism, and Education in Samoa, 1970-1980 , Juliann Anesi

Program Contacts

• Special Education

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Advance Your Career

The mission of the Special Education Doctoral Program at Purdue University is to prepare scholars for faculty positions in higher education. This residential, full time, and competency-based program is designed to prepare students to conduct rigorous scientific and applied research, to teach at the university level, and to become leaders who strive to improve educational outcomes and quality of life for individuals with special needs. Our mission is accomplished through challenging coursework, competency-based faculty mentorship, and active student involvement in applied research.

This residential program has rolling admission . Applications must be fully complete and submitted (including all required materials) and all application fees paid prior to the deadline in order for applications to be considered and reviewed. For a list of all required materials for this program application, please see the “ Admissions ” tab.

Application Deadlines

*Those applicants interested in being considered for any available PhD funding should submit completed applications by December 1 for the following Fall semester .

All other applicants have a deadline of April 15 for the Fall semester.

Program at a Glance

• Major/Department: Educational Studies
• Research Area: Special Education
• Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Program Delivery: Residential
• Does this program lead to licensure? * No , this is a non-licensure program

Start Your Giant Leap with One Small Step

Request Information

The Special Education doctoral program includes 45 credits in Special Education coursework, 15 credits in statistics and research design coursework, 9 credits in coursework for a cognate area outside of, but related to Special Education (e.g. educational policy, child development, social justice, etc), and approximately 21 credits in core competencies of research, grant writing, university teaching, and professional engagement.

Statistics and Research Methods Courses

• EDPS 55600 and 55700
• STAT 50100 and 50200
• EDPS 63000 (EDPS 53300 or equivalent as prerequisite)

Core Special Education Courses

• EDPS 65000 – Critical Issues in Special Education
• EDPS 66100 – Review and Implications of Research in Special Education
• EDPS 66400 – Research Seminar in Special Education (students register for rotating topics each fall until they pass prelims)

Such course work may be from other education programs or may include audiology and speech, language pathology, language development, instructional development, child development and family studies, psychology, etc. The Plan of Study must have at least one related area primarily outside of Special Education (in another program or Department, or combination of programs or Departments). The minimum requirement for the cognate is 9 credits.

Signature Areas

Research is an important and integral part of each doctoral student’s program at Purdue. The specific course requirements for the major emphasis will be determined by the student, the advisor, and the advisory committee, subject to approval by the Graduate School.

The Ph.D. program in Special Education offers four signature areas for students to conduct research:

• Autism and Developmental Disabilities
• Challenging Behavior Assessment and Intervention
• Disproportionality in Identification, Placement, and Discipline
• Mathematics Instruction and Learning Disabilities/Difficulties

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), the following materials are required for admission consideration, and all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

A completed master’s degree is required prior to admission.

Application Requirements

Here are the materials required for this application

• Transcripts (from all universities attended)
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• 3 Recommendations
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• GRE Scores (optional)
• International Applicants must meet English Proficiency Requirements set by the Purdue Graduate School

We encourage prospective students to submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

How to Apply

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Educational Studies
• Please select an Area of Interest: Special Education
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

This program does not lead to licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Contact the College of Education Office of Teacher Education and Licensure (OTEL) at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state Department of Education about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

• Ackerman Center
• Serious Games
• CnI Online Fac
• Curriculum Studies
• Education for Work and Community
• Elementary Education
• English Education
• English Language Learning
• Learning Design and Technology
• Literacy and Language Education
• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Social Studies Education
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Counseling and Development
• Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
• Educational Psychology and Research Methodology
• Gifted Education

Juliana Aguilar

Jasmine begeske, rita carlisle, kirsten elliott, melissa grabner-hagen, kharon grimmet, david jackson, kelly jackson, kristie jones, pam martien-koch, beverly nichols, scott opsahl, richard a. price, margaret “peg” rideout, kathryn rusnak, madeline sandberg, rachel scalzo, jennifer smith, lisa steward, wade wingler, yan ping xin, questions contact the office of graduate studies at [email protected] ..

• Alumni & Giving
• Faculty/Staff Directory

The Graduate School of Education and Human Development

• CAEP Accreditation
• Faculty/Staff Resources
• Adrienne Robinson
• Andrew Flagel
• Anissa Rodriguez
• Aristide Collins
• Brenda Simmons
• Brigid Griffin
• Callie Hyder
• Carol Pankow
• Carol Stapp
• Celia Pena-Gomez
• Chris Dietrich
• Christine Johnson
• Crystal Garry
• De' Von Henderson
• Diane Koffenberger
• Diona Emmanual
• Elana Riback Rand
• Eli Gottlieb
• Esther Friedman
• Francine Krull
• Holly Snyder
• Ilana Weltman
• Joyce Moreland
• Julya Doyle
• Laura DeLuca
• Linda Hedenblad
• Linda McCullough
• Lois Elaine Rhymers
• Madison Thurston
• Marcia Brightman
• Maria Coyle
• Marian Jarrett
• Marion Flythe-Inman
• Mary Ellen Solomon
• Meg Holland
• Melissa Diehl
• Monique Barner
• Naomi Gamoran
• Nichole Tichy
• Patty Rosario
• Rebecca Dedmond
• Rebecca Vander Schaaf
• Reyna Smith
• Samantha Cropper
• Samantha Long
• Sandra Miller
• Sarah Boland
• Sarah Buscher
• Sevinj Mammadova
• Shreyas Bhatnagar
• Stephanie Spar
• Tal Vaizman
• Talia Hurwich
• Thelma Davis-Myers
• Touran Waters
• Vinnie Mitchell
• Wesal Abdelbasit
• Yael Findler
• Yuliya Stone
• Zachary Nichols
• 2023-2024 Year in Review
• Doctorate in Counseling
• Graduate Certificate in Counseling and Life Transitions
• Graduate Certificate in the Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling
• Post-Master's Certificate in Counseling
• Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling
• Master's in School Counseling
• Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction
• Graduate Certificate in STEM Teaching
• Master's in Curriculum and Instruction
• Master's in Elementary Education
• Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation, and Development
• Graduate Certificate in Literacy Education
• Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
• Graduate Certificate in Assessment, Testing, and Measurement in Education
• Master's in Assessment, Testing, and Measurement in Education
• Master's in Experiential Jewish Education
• Educational Technology Leadership Programs
• Master's in Educational Leadership and Administration
• Post-Master's Certificate in Educational Leadership and Administration
• Education Specialist in Educational Leadership and Administration
• Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration
• Master's in Education Policy Studies
• Juris Doctorate / Master's in Education Policy
• Master's in Higher Education Administration
• Juris Doctorate / Master's in Higher Education Administration
• MBA / Master's in Higher Education Administration
• Doctorate in Higher Education Administration
• Master's in International Education
• Graduate Certificate in Incorporating International Perspectives in Education
• Master's and Graduate Certificate in Israel Education
• Master's in Museum Education
• Graduate Certificate in Organizational Learning and Change
• Doctorate in Human and Organizational Learning
• Master's in Organizational Leadership and Learning
• Graduate Certificate in Leadership Development
• Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership
• Education Specialist in Special Education Leadership
• Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum
• Graduate Certificate in Secondary Transition Leadership
• Master's in Interdisciplinary Secondary Transition Services

Doctorate in Special Education

• Master's in Special Education
• Master's in Early Childhood Special Education
• Master's in Special Education for Children with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
• Graduate Certificate in Special Education for Cultural Responsiveness and Equity in Teaching
• Individualized Master's Program
• Comparative and International Education Concentration
• Education and Inequality Concentration
• Human and Organizational Learning Concentration
• Human-Technology Collaboration Concentration
• Curriculum and Instruction Concentration
• Education Policy Concentration
• Online Programs
• Prospective Students
• Request Info
• How to Apply
• International Applicants
• Funding Your Education
• Visit Campus
• Admitted Students
• Student Resources
• Dates & Deadlines
• Student FAQs
• New Student Orientation
• New Student Guide
• Student Life & Engagement
• Career Services
• Dissertation Guide
• Research Lab
• UNESCO Chair & Fellowship
• Futrell Scholars
• EdFix Episode 34: From Virtual to Victorious - The Remarkable Success of an Online High School
• EdFix Episode 35: The End of Affirmative Action in Admissions? Experts Explore the Implications for Higher Education
• EdFix Episode 36: Community Colleges - America's Hidden Economic Engines?
• EdFix Episode 37: Policy Perspectives and Possibilities - A Conversation with Jack Jennings
• EdFix Episode 38: Can Standardized Tests Bridge the Equity Gap?
• EdFix Episode 39: ChatGPT and Beyond - Teaching in the AI Era
• EdFix Episode 40: From Civil Rights to Civics - Dr. Raymond Pierce on Equity in Education
• Feuer Consideration
• Refer a Student

Lead the Way in Creating an Equitable and Inclusive Education System

Break barriers and reform special education by gaining cross-disciplinary expertise in our doctoral (EdD) program. The program is designed to support the development of researchers, educators, and scholar leaders as they acquire knowledge in the fields of cognitive psychology and the developmental sciences in an effort to meaningfully translate that knowledge to the most pressing issues in special education today.

As a doctoral student in our program, you'll collaborate with faculty in a variety of areas, including early childhood education, elementary, secondary and transition to post-secondary education, and working with culturally and linguistically diverse learners with exceptionalities. We also focus on students with various disabilities, such as emotional and behavioral challenges.

We're looking for students who are passionate about improving outcomes for children and families, and who are eager to work with transdisciplinary partners to advance research in this field.

Request Information     

How to Apply     

Upcoming Info Sessions     

Transform Knowledge into Action Our program infuses cutting-edge theoretical lenses in the field of SEDS to translate and apply research related to learning for diverse populations, developing scholar leaders who are changing the landscape in academic and community settings.

Collaborative Research Students have a unique opportunity to work alongside SEDS faculty, who are nationally recognized researchers in the field, on funded research projects, resulting in a wide range of experiential learning outcomes, such as presenting at conferences and co-authoring research publications.

Convenient Schedule Courses are scheduled once a week in late afternoons and evenings (Monday-Thursday) to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, and for internship experiences.

The GW Advantage

Benefit from our unique location in the heart of our nation’s capital. With close proximity and connections to government and private organizations, along with the area's diverse school settings, our students have access to opportunities to truly affect systems change in special education policy, research, and practice. Our diverse community allows students to explore and investigate the most pressing issues in the education and development of students identified with disabilities, as well as support a more inclusive and equitable world.

Jump to Section:   Curriculum   |  Admissions   |  Fees & Aid   |  Careers   |  Faculty   |  Events   |  Request Info

 Program at a Glance

Doctor of Education (EdD) in the Field of Special Education

Department:

Special Education & Disability Studies

Course Delivery:

Main Campus

Program Entry:

The mission of the doctoral program in the Department of Special Education and Disability Studies Department (SEDS) is to prepare scholars and leaders who can translate and determine the appropriate application of research at the school, local, and federal levels for people with disabilities. In other words, scholars draw from findings in developmental science, disability studies, and intervention research practices to develop and implement equitable, inclusive practices for students and adults with disabilities. Our mission is to prepare doctoral candidates for leadership roles in special education and related fields with a strong foundation in developmental science and strength-based, inclusive pedagogy.

 Apply Now

• Guide to Applying
• Admission Requirements
• Application Deadlines

GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information. Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD > To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283.

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.

• Prerequisite: Master's Degree
• Statement of Purpose
• 2 Letters of Recommendation (must be academic)
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities

*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants .

View more details about requirements      

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2025 . We encourage you to apply as early as possible.

For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283.

 Tuition & Financial Aid

• Tuition Overview

We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.

Learn more about scholarships, grants & financial aid     

Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.

The tuition rate* for the EdD in Special Education program is $1,905 per credit hour .

This program requires 54 credits .

Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.

*Summer 2024, Fall 2024 and Spring 2025

View the current fee chart     

Scholarships are available to eligible admitted students. Review eligibility requirements and learn more about funding your education >

The national, even global perspectives in my fields of passion that GW offered me through various co-curricular experiences are essential to my career development and are something I cannot get anywhere else. Also, as an international student and a working mom, the support and understanding I’ve received from the program have been invaluable. I'm truly grateful for my experience at GW and proud to be part of such a forward-thinking and loving community.

XINXIA LI Current Student, EdD in Special Education

 Career Outlook

Graduates are prepared to have an impact through leadership in academic settings, research communities, policy institutions, and advocacy organizations. You will become a leader, innovator, and change agent in the field of special education.

Our graduates serve as:

• Academic Faculty
• Research Scientists
• Senior-level Policy Analyst
• Special Education Program Directors/Coordinators

• Universities or Colleges
• PreK-12 Educational Settings
• Policy Think Tanks
• Research Organizations, Centers, and Institutes

Special Education (EdD) Faculty

Associate Dean for Research and External Relations; Director of Accreditation; Professor, Special Education and Disability Studies

Assistant Professor, Special Education and Disability Studies

Associate Professor, Special Education and Disability Studies

Department Chair and Associate Professor, Special Education and Disability Studies

Upcoming Events

Program info sessions.

Schedule a Meeting to Learn More

GSEHD Student Events

View All Events

Request Information

• Enroll & Pay
• Jayhawk GPS
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Current Faculty

Ph.D. in Special Education at KU

Program Overview

The Ph.D. in special education at the University of Kansas is built on a mission to prepare civically committed scholars who, through rigorous and relevant research and transformational interventions, address significant educational and social problems in ways that advance education, social policy, research, care giving and public service to enhance the quality of life of persons of all ages with disabilities and their families. Program students and graduates rely on interdisciplinary theoretical knowledge and the full range of methodological approaches to engage, influence, and transform educational and social institutions and their practices to promote learning, equitable opportunity, full participation, inclusiveness, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.

Career Outcomes in Special Education

Graduates of the special education Ph.D. program are scholars who steward the profession, working across disciplinary boundaries to address the educational and social challenges of the 21st century. Moreover, as civic professionals, they also engage in stewardship with their communities. Our graduates are scholars who recognize that resolving the great social and education challenges requires a sense of collective social purpose among the professions and inclusive of people with disabilities, and that the professions' greatest responsibility is to the people most affected.

Doctoral graduates are prepared to hold leadership positions in diverse sectors and organizations, including:

• Top-tier research universities
• Teacher preparation institutions
• Private and university affiliated research centers, foundations, research and development companies
• State and federal education agencies and legislative bodies.

Thus, the KU Doctoral program prepares graduates to take a variety of leadership positions. Doctoral graduates can hold faculty positions in comprehensive and research universities and leadership positions in state and national agencies. Accordingly, the doctoral program educates students to become a researcher and scholar who will then prepare prospective teachers and administrators to work in the profession. The career paths of recent graduates reflect the program's emphasis on reciprocal research to practice, civic professionalism, and stewardship of the field and discipline.

While the primary aim of the program is to prepare such scholars for tenure-line faculty positions in top tier research universities, program graduates’ knowledge and skill attainment prepare them for positions throughout the education enterprise and beyond. Graduates hold leadership positions around the country and the globe at top research universities, teacher preparation institutions, private and university affiliated research centers, foundations, research and development companies, and in various state and federal education agencies and legislative bodies.

• School scholarships
• Office of Graduate Studies

Program Specializations

Every year the Ph.D. in special education program admits a cohort of students from around the world. Each doctoral student chooses an area of specialization and potentially a secondary area of interest as a cognate or minor (e.g., research methodology). Program applicants are asked to identify the specialization area and faculty of interest (i.e., potential academic advisor).

Currently, our program has the following areas of specialization:

specializations

Disability & diversity in school & society.

This specialization focuses on the intersecting oppressions of disability, race, ethnicity, social class, language, gender, and sexuality in education and society. It will prepare students to evaluate, synthesize, and conduct research on and teach about two lines of social injustice. The first line is the historic oppression of people with disabilities in education and other social institutions, the primary sites where difference is constructed as disability and disability is excluded or segregated and controlled. Here, we are concerned with interdisciplinary theory and research that illuminates institutional and political processes, including those of disability oppression and prejudice, the social construction of disability and normalcy, the role of social movements in advancing disability rights and equity, the politics of actualizing rights in the offending institutions, and the application of interdisciplinary theoretical and empirical knowledge of disability oppression, construction, and movements to the identification and resolution of moral and ethical disability dilemmas. The second line of oppression is at the intersection of the social categories of disability, race, ethnicity, social class, language, gender, and sexuality. Students’ research and teaching focuses on educational and social injustices that result from these intersections. Additionally, the focus is on how such oppressions are perpetrated by the biased use of disability and special education, including educational policies and practices that produce persistent patterns of racial/ethnic, class, language, and gender in special education referral and identification, disability classification, instructional placement, teaching, behavior management, and transition practices.

Specialization faculty

Early Childhood Unified (Blending of Early Childhood & Early Childhood Special Education)

This specialization focuses on advancing equitable, inclusive, and effective intervention/instruction in early childhood/early childhood special education. Specialization priorities also include the importance of families; strengths-based perspectives, theoretical and methodological pluralism; diversity and cultural/linguistic responsiveness; and addressing persistent, complex educational and social problems in early childhood/early childhood special education. This specialization will assist doctoral students in acquiring foundational knowledge of the current evidence and trends in the field for providing effective early intervention (birth-3 years old) and education (3-8 years old) for each and every young child and their families including those with developmental delays and identified disabilities. Doctoral students are prepared to effectively and successfully serve as Early Childhood/Early Childhood Special Education leaders in the field including faculty in institutions of higher education engaged in research (conducted through a variety of methodologies; disseminated through various outlets), personnel preparation and teaching (implemented through various instructional approaches and modalities), and service (performed at organization and institution, local, national, and international levels).

Evidence-based Practices: Supporting Students with Intensive Interventions Needs in Tiered Systems

This specialization focuses on evidenced-based practices and strategies in tiered systems of support – specifically Comprehensive, Integrated, Three-tiered (Ci3T) models of prevention – for students with intensive, academic, behavior, and social needs, especially those with emotional and behavioral disorders, autism, and severe learning disabilities, and those without identified disabilities. This specialization will develop the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to (a) carry out an active and innovative research agenda; (b) use systematic screening tools to detect and assist students for whom Tier 1 practices are insufficient ; (c) design, implement, and evaluate strategies and practices to prevent and respond to academic, behavior, and social challenges with attention to procedural fidelity and intervention adaptation; (d) support collaborative partnerships between general and special educators within the context of tiered systems of support; and (e) serve as recognized leaders with expertise in school-based inquiry to improve academic, behavioral, and social outcomes for students with and at risk for learning, behavior, and/or social support needs. Doctoral students in this program will be prepared to teach in higher education and conduct research in areas such as systematic screening, test construction, and/or intervention studies (using group and single case design methodology) in academic, behavioral, and social domains for students with and without disabilities.

Instructional Design, Technology & Innovation

This specialization develops leaders focused on supporting learner variability in modern learning environments through instructional design and technology innovations. This specialization develops foundational knowledge and skills necessary to (a) carry out an active and innovative research and development agenda; (b) support the design and implementation of modern learning environments, especially in the area of teacher preparation and k-12 classroom application; and (c) serve as recognized leaders in instructional design and technology as it relates to individuals with disabilities and other diverse learning needs in modern learning environments. Doctoral students in this program study prepare to teach in higher education, and conduct research in areas such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), innovation and adoption technology in learning environments, online and blended learning, gaming and gamification, mobile learning, personalization, augmented and virtual reality, and technology enhanced performance.

Special Education Policy & Systems Studies

The Special Education Policy and Systems Studies specialization has an emancipatory focus that questions and seeks to reform oppressive aspects of education and disability policy and practice. Emancipation, through critical theoretical and empirical analysis and democratic participation of those who experience impairment and associated disabilities and those who care for, serve, and advocate for them, is essential because, like all professions, special education can be self-serving in advancing its policy agenda, failing to embrace changes in policies that affect practice, even when they are shown to be inadequate or damaging. With a critical policy perspective, special education can better address interests of those it exists to serve. Further, because special education has been enacted in federal law, it has resulted in a complex web of regulation and performativity that operate alongside but not necessarily as part of the general education system. A policy vantage point allows scholars to explore the justice narratives within education and special education while systems theories help to explain how injustice and oppression are embedded within everyday practice.

Strengths Based & Inclusive Approaches to the Education of Learners with Extensive & Pervasive Support Needs

This specialization develops leaders focused on supporting learners with disabilities—including intellectual disability, autism, and multiple disabilities—who need extensive and pervasive supports to be fully included in school, home, work, and community. The specialization focuses on the intersection of positive psychology and strengths-based approaches to disability, inclusive education, and students with extensive and pervasive support needs. The underlying conceptual elements of the specialization incorporate research and teaching to ensure that learners with extensive and pervasive support needs are provided the supports and experiences in school and the community to promote positive, self-determined, and inclusive experiences. Key areas of the doctoral research and teaching experience include: strengths-based approaches to the education of learners with extensive and pervasive support needs, particularly in the domains of inclusive practices; evidence-based practices that promote high levels of academic achievement; predictors of inclusive education and promoting access to the general education curriculum for learners with extensive and pervasive support needs; and measuring and promoting student self-determination and self-determined learning.

Thinking about special education?

Brag points, at a glance.

Stewardship

Doctoral funding opportunities

Doctoral student life.

Research Opportunities

Graduate Student Funding

Vibrant Campus Environment

Professional Development

More doctoral student life.

Study & Teach Abroad

Student Organizations & Engagement