Doctoral Degree

The Department of Special Education offers a doctoral degree in Special Education with a specialization in Autism and Developmental Disabilities. This program provides advanced preparation in the design, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based services to individuals with autism and related developmental and physical disabilities, and their families. In addition to coursework, students are expected to become actively involved in a variety of professional activities. Two doctoral degree programs are available: the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). Both programs prepare students for a variety of careers.

The Ph.D. Program trains students to conduct research in universities and in other environments. The dissertation, which demonstrates research skills, is a novel contribution to the field of special education.

The Ed.D. Program emphasizes applied research and prepares students for leadership roles in a variety of educational settings. This dissertation investigates an issue in special education or rehabilitation counseling and contributes to policy development or practice.

The Department offers two doctoral degrees, Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in six areas of specialization within Special Education. The Ed.D. degree focuses on preparing students for administrative, professional, and consultation roles. Conversely, the Ph.D. is a research degree. It is structured to provide students with both academic and practical experiences in conducting research. Both degrees culminate with successful presentation and defense of the doctoral dissertation comprised of a theoretically-based piece of original research.

The graduate faculty encourage the holistic development of students’ knowledge and skills in a variety of areas including teaching, consulting, counseling, research, assessment, and administration. Advanced graduate study in special education and rehabilitation counselor education prepare graduates for leadership roles in fields that serve children, youths, and adults with exceptionalities. Cultural and linguistic diversity and life span needs are emphasized in all program areas.

• Autism and Developmental Disabilities provides advanced training in the design, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based services to individuals with autism and related developmental and physical disabilities, and their families.

• Early Childhood Special Education focuses on early intervention programs for children from birth through six years of age, reflecting a family-centered philosophy and application of the most recent theoretical concepts in natural and inclusive settings.

• Learning Disabilities/Behavior Disorders provides advanced coursework in learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, instructional design, and assistive technology, and field-based experiences to prepare graduates for leadership roles.

  (*A limited number of scholarships are currently available through federally funded grants.)

• Multicultural Special Education focuses on critical issues, knowledge, and skills related to the complex relationships among culture, race and ethnicity, language, and disability. Students are prepared for leadership roles in the provision of culturally and linguistically responsive educational services for exceptional children and youth from diverse backgrounds.

  (*A limited number of scholarships are currently available through federally funded grants.)

• Rehabilitation Counselor Education is accredited by the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) and prepares individuals to counsel youth and adults with disabilities who are experiencing difficulties related to personal and vocational adjustment.
• Special Education Administration offers students advanced training appropriate for general and special education leadership positions, creating an interface between general education administration and special education.

Admission Deadlines

Priority Deadline	February 1
Final Deadline	April 15