The Ph.D. program in the Department of Special Education (SPED) is a noncategorical terminal degree, suiting the interests of the student and the expertise of the faculty. Our philosophy is that doctoral students and faculty often learn together; therefore, many interests in the special education field can be accommodated in SPED. The doctoral program prepares researchers and future university faculty in the following subfields of exceptionalities:

  • Autism spectrum disorders
  • Behavior disorders and prevention
  • Early childhood special education/early intervention
  • Gifted and talented/creativity/twice-exceptionality
  • High incidence disability
  • Learning disabilities
  • Severe disabilities
  • Transition

The Ph.D. degree in special education requires more extensive contact with and immersion in the university culture than does the online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree (e.g., 18 coursework hours and 24 hours of dissertation research; residency requirement, extensive interaction, dialogue, and work with faculty on research projects; and expectations that students disseminate their research at conferences or in publications). The Ph.D. program emphasizes the development of theoretical thinking and knowledge development in the field of special education through the development of strong research skills. Ideal graduates are those who cannot only provide a detailed critique of existing research in their areas of expertise but also contribute to the research knowledge. Prospective applicants should pay attention to the distinctions between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. degrees. It is important to note that students cannot switch between the Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs after admission.