fully funded phd programs in special education online

Where Can You Earn An Online Ph.D. In Special Education In 2024?

Updated: Jul 10, 2024, 11:07am

Key Takeaways

• A doctorate in special education allows you to conduct original research in specialized areas of the field and take an active role in shaping the education of students with physical and intellectual disabilities and other exceptionalities.
• Online Ph.D. in special education programs are comparatively rare, but online learning may help you balance graduate study with other obligations and let you access programs across the country without having to relocate.
• For full-time doctoral students, an online Ph.D. in special education typically takes three to five years to complete.

Education professionals who want to pursue leadership roles and change the future of special education should consider earning a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in special education. This terminal graduate degree develops advanced expertise in particular areas of special education.

Special education doctoral programs explore educational research methodology, special education law, public policy and pedagogy. Program requirements may include an internship, a comprehensive or qualifying examination, and a doctoral dissertation. Some programs offer specializations like administration, autism, applied behavior analysis and university teaching.

An online Ph.D. in special education can prepare you to work in university teaching and research, program development, specialist teaching and consulting, or educator preparation and training. Learn where you can earn a Ph.D. in special education online.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Online Ph.D. in Special Education Degree Options

Texas tech university, university of northern colorado.

Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, offers a fully online Ph.D. in special education that prepares students for leadership roles in special education and accepts up to 30 transfer credits.

The curriculum explores educational statistics and research, program evaluation in special education and grant writing for special education. Students complete a doctoral internship, a qualifying exam and a 12-credit doctoral dissertation to graduate. The program requires one year of residency, which in most cases entails full-time enrollment for two consecutive semesters.

Applicants need GRE scores, a résumé, three professional recommendations and an applicant statement. Total tuition costs approximately $460 per credit for full-time, in-state students; TTU charges an additional distance learning fee of up to $100 per credit.

At a Glance

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 90 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time, full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Introduction to educational statistics, qualitative research in education
• Concentrations Available: Assessment, generic: high incidence disabilities special education, applied behavior analysis, autism, deaf/hard of hearing, deaf/blind, orientation and mobility, visual impairment
• In-Person Requirements: No

Learners can earn a Ph.D. in special education online in three to five years from the University of Northern Colorado Extended Campus in Loveland, Colorado. The program prepares students to conduct research, use evidence-based practices and advocate for change in special education. The curriculum explores grant writing, individualized instruction, collaboration in education and leadership. Students can add a director of gifted education endorsement.

The program requires doctoral core, research core and elective graduate coursework. Students also complete an externship, a comprehensive exam and a doctoral dissertation. Tuition costs $734 per credit, and the program has one annual start date each fall.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 77 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Theories of exceptionality, grant writing seminar
• Concentrations Available: Transition of children and youth with exceptionalities; education of infants and preschool children with exceptionalities; one of the categorical areas of special education (e.g., autism, blindness or visual impairment, deaf or hard of hearing, learning disabilities); gifts and talents; curriculum development; special education administration; university teaching and research

How To Find the Right Online Ph.D. in Special Education for You

Consider your future goals.

Before choosing an online Ph.D. in special education, think about what you want to do after graduation. No two programs are identical, so you should find the one that best aligns with your future career goals.

In a program where faculty members are already conducting research in your interest area, you’ll have an easier time getting the support and opportunities you need to succeed.

If you want to concentrate your research on a specific population or area of special education, make sure to find a program that makes this possible. For example, if you want to research special education issues related to children with autism spectrum disorder, find a program with an autism concentration, or one that will let you design your own area of focus.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Total tuition rates for the degrees discussed on this page amount to about $41,400 for TTU’s Ph.D. and $56,500 for UNC’s.

For comparison, The National Center for Education Statistics reports that one year of graduate school tuition and fees costs about $11,500 for in-state students at public universities. Private, nonprofit universities charge just over $20,000 per year for graduate tuition and fees. (These figures include master’s degrees; it’s tough to parse out the average cost of tuition for a doctorate since program costs vary widely at the doctoral level.)

To apply for federal student aid that can help pay for your online Ph.D. in special education, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Federal aid may include student loans, grants and scholarships. Your department and school also may offer funding options like scholarships, fellowships, and graduate student research and teaching assistantships.

Should You Enroll in an Online Ph.D. in Special Education Program?

Online Ph.D. in special education programs can provide flexibility and convenience, making it easier for working educators to go back to school. However, online learning does not suit everyone. Consider the below factors before committing to a delivery format for your degree.

Online programs can offer savings since distance learners do not pay for expensive on-campus housing or transportation costs. In general, tuition rates for distance education programs tend to be similar to or lower than rates for on-campus offerings.

Learning Style

Succeeding in an online learning environment usually takes good time management and organizational skills. You must be able to motivate yourself to do the work, even when you don’t feel like it. If you tend to procrastinate, or if you otherwise benefit from the structure and accountability of in-person classes, an online program might not work for you.

Time Commitment

Compared to in-person programs, which require you to attend class at a specific place and time, online programs usually provide greater scheduling flexibility. Asynchronous programs in particular allow you to work through your course material at your convenience. This flexibility can especially benefit learners with full-time jobs and other time-intensive commitments.

Accreditation for Online Ph.D. in Special Education

Universities can pursue institutional accreditation to showcase their high-quality educational offerings.

To award institutional accreditation, independent accrediting bodies approved by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) evaluate schools based on factors like quality of faculty, availability of student services and responsible financial management.

Programmatic accreditation signals that a specific department or program within a university has passed a rigorous quality assurance process. Online Ph.D. in special education programs may hold programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

You can research school and program accreditation using CHEA’s searchable directory . Most schools also provide accreditation information on an accreditation page of their website.

Our Methodology

We scored two accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ph.D. in special education programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes, student experience and application process.

We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of January 2023.

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We listed all two schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Ph.D. in Special Education Programs

What is the difference between a ph.d. and an ed.s..

An education specialist (Ed.S.) degree, similar to a doctor of education (Ed.D.), is a postgraduate education degree that is more advanced than a typical master’s degree but less intensive than a Ph.D. While a Ph.D. in special education usually prepares graduates to work on high-level special education research, policy or university teaching, an Ed.S. prepares graduates to assume leadership roles as special education practitioners.

Is a Ph.D. better than an Ed.D.?

The answer depends on your career goals. Ph.D. special education programs focus primarily on university-level research and teaching, while Ed.D. programs are designed for practitioners. If you want to take a leadership role working directly with special education students, an Ed.D. is a good choice. On the other hand, if you want to design and conduct studies on special education issues, choose a Ph.D.

How long does it take to earn a Ph.D. in special education online?

How long it takes to earn your online Ph.D. in special education depends largely on whether you study full time or part time. Full-time Ph.D. candidates can typically complete their coursework and doctoral dissertation in three to five years.

What can you do with a Ph.D. in special education?

Many Ph.D. in special education graduates go on to teach at the university level or conduct academic research in the field. Others work at individual schools or school districts as special education coordinators, curriculum specialists, administrators or consultants.

Is a Ph.D. in special education worth it?

Depending on your career goals, a Ph.D. in special education may be worth it. This terminal degree is typically required if you plan to conduct research and train future special education professionals as a university professor. It can also benefit those seeking advanced special education roles in schools and school districts, although other graduate degrees—such as an Ed.S. or Ed.D.—may also help you qualify for these positions.

• Best Affordable Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
• Best Online Doctorate In Educational Leadership Programs
• Best Master’s In ESL Online Programs
• Best Master’s In Education Online
• The Best And Worst States For Teaching Jobs
• Early Childhood Education Degrees Online: Best
• Best Online Teaching Degrees
• Best Online Ed.D. Programs
• Best Online Elementary Education Degrees
• Best Online History Degrees
• Best Higher Education Online Master’s Programs
• Where To Earn An Online Physical Education Degree
• Best Online Secondary Education Degrees
• Guide To Early Childhood Education Careers
• Finding A Career In Educational Leadership
• Higher Education Career Guide
• How To Become A Professor
• Career Paths For Different Types Of Teachers
• Earning A Doctoral Degree In Education
• Earning A Bachelor’s Degree In Early Childhood Education
• Earning An Associate Degree In Education
• Your Guide To Earning A Master’s In Higher Education
• Earning An Associate In Early Childhood Education
• Earning A Master’s In Early Childhood Education
• What Can You Do With An English Degree?

Best Online Doctorates In Education Of 2024

The Best And Worst States For Teaching Jobs In 2024

Where Can You Earn A Ph.D. In Early Childhood Education Online In 2024?

Best Online Ph.D.s in Educational Leadership Of 2024

Best Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees Online Of 2024

Best Online Master’s In Educational Leadership Programs Of 2024

Liz Simmons has been writing for various online publications about career development, higher education and college affordability for nearly a decade. Her articles demystify the college application process and help prospective students figure out how to choose a major or career path.

Search this site

College of education menu, college of education, phd in special education.

Fully Funded    |    Impressive Research   |    SPED Handbook    |    Information Session    |    Apply Now

Learn from leading researchers in the field of special education 

Our nationally ranked University of Oregon Special Education program has a track record of preparing graduates to stand out in their careers and improve educational practices. The research, resources, and practices our program faculty conduct impacts the field of education in the US and globally.

Our doctoral training experience is unique and individualized. Our program competencies (see handbook ) are designed to support you to develop expertise in the domains of teaching, service, and research. Working with your advisor and other program faculty, you will create a plan that will provide you expertise in the areas you are interested in studying while being exposed to all of the service and research experiences our program and COE faculty conduct.

Our program faculty teach and research a wide range of topics in the field of special education (e.g., dual language learners, assessment, autism, social emotional learning, early childhood, behavioral analysis, post-school community engagement, instruction, equity in school discipline, etc.) with a critical eye toward improving systems and practices to promote equity in educational outcomes for all students. We typically admit 4-8 students a year to work as a cohort to maximize your learning and experiences.

All admitted students receive four years of funding (including tuition and health insurance coverage).

New Training Opportunity! Project LMAESTRO will prepare future special education leaders in research, practitioner preparation, and community collaboration focused on:

• supporting young children with special needs including children with autism
• implementation science
• culturally and linguistically responsive practices

Accepted students will receive full tuition, insurance, and a stipend plus:

• Mentorship and training opportunities with autism experts across our project network
• Community partnered research and practical training opportunities

For more information on LMAESTRO, contact Dr. Stephanie Shire [email protected]

Information Session

Want to learn more? Didn't get a chance to attend our info session Monday, October 23, 2023? That's okay, we've got you covered! Watch a recorded information session to learn more about the doctoral degree program.

View Info Session PowerPoint

We have a proven track record of students completing in less than 5 years and our graduates obtain leadership positions in the following areas:

What our students are saying .

Why did you choose to come to the UO?       “I saw an opportunity to work with UO faculty members who are making a tremendous impact in the local and global communities.”

--Rikki Wheatley, Current third year doctoral student

What projects are you excited to work on?      The SIMPLE grant - Dr. James Sinclair focusing on mental health supports and integration of mental health for high school students with disabilities.

--Current second year doctoral student

Check out the impressive research our students are doing by visiting the Doctoral Ducks research site: https://blogs.uoregon.edu/speddoc/ .

Graduate student showcase .

Meet our Special Education program graduate students and learn about their varied background, research interests, and future aspirations.

Graduate Student Showcase

Unique and Individualized Doctoral Training Experience

• Individualized plan of study: Our program competencies (see handbook) are designed to support each candidate to develop expertise in the domains of university teaching, service, and research. How a candidate satisfies each competency is individualized to the candidate’s interests in collaboration with program faculty. 
• Collaborative Learning Environment: Each year approximately 4-8 students are accepted and work with one another using a cohort approach to create a collaborative and supportive learning experience.

SPED PhD Handbook

30 Online PhD/Doctorate in Special Education

Find your degree.

Change the educational system from within with a Ph.D. or doctorate in Special Education from one of our top-ranked online schools!

Being an implementer of positive social change often requires a comprehensive knowledge of the problem at hand. Teaching and researching more effective ways to address the particular needs of special education students is what Ph.D. or doctorate programs in special education are all about. While earning this degree won’t be a cakewalk, the positive impact you could have on thousands of students make this journey worth the effort. Keep reading to find out what you’ll be learning in this kind of program!

What Will You Learn in a Ph.D. or Doctorate in Special Education Program?

Ph.D. and doctorate programs are designed to concentrate the student’s focus in one of two directions—to either conduct research or to improve instructional methods. Carefully consider what you want to gain by completing a Ph.D. or doctorate in special education and choose a program that caters specifically to that need. Special education is a discipline that is concerned with helping those with disabilities overcome obstacles to learning through addressing the individual’s particular needs. 

In an online Ph.D. or doctorate in special education program, you’ll take a core set of classes and complete a dissertation or comprehensive research project. A dissertation is a process in which students research a new topic in their specific discipline and report their findings in an academic paper. This is a comprehensive and extensive process that is overseen by experts in the field, designed to teach students who wish to become doctors on how to research, design, and write academically about a question or topic of interest. 

Examples of some courses you may take during your Ph.D. or doctorate in special education include: 

• Historical and Theoretical Foundations of Disability in Education
• Inquiry in Special Education
• Advanced Learning Theory & Research
• Applied Research Concepts & Methodology
• Literature Review for Applied Research

What Are the Best Online Ph.D. or Doctorate in Special Education Degrees?

Online College Plan uses data from the National Center for Education Statistics to determine the best programs. We factor in how robust the school’s online education is, how well that school delivers on its promises, how affordable the program is, and how selective the school is as a whole. For more information, see our methodology page.

The doctorate with an emphasis in special education from Liberty University is not a degree for those looking for licensure as a teacher. The degree is more geared toward individuals who already have a teaching license and those that want a terminal degree credential. The degree is accredited through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). 

This degree offered through Liberty University is 54 credit hours in length, which takes students around three years to complete. The courses are held in eight-week modules, and students have the option to meet other students in their cohorts through optional intensives held on-ground at the university’s main campus in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The Ph.D. in special education from the University of Washington is not for the faint of heart as the program is rigorous and challenging, but if you’re up for this adventure, your hard work is sure to be paid off by earning a top-notch degree from an excellent school. During the first two years in this program, you will be considered to be in a post-master’s program in which you will take the required courses necessary to complete the doctorate. 

During the first two years, you will also be required to select a topic you would like to explore further during your dissertation. The program directs students to gain teaching and instruction skills by presenting presentations at conferences. The program is designed to produce a well-rounded researcher with expertise in special education.

Educators who are looking to transform their approach to educating those with disabilities, as well as gain a better understanding of the current policies and issues surrounding special education, will be an ideal fit for the University of Florida’s Ed.D in special education. This program encompasses both theory and application of strategies and techniques that are most effective in educating people with disabilities as well as the ethics and family dynamics that are related to special education.

Each graduate student will select an area of specialization with the help of their advisor. Areas of specialization include dyslexia, autism, and disability in society, among others. Students must achieve a B or higher in all of their coursework to continue on with the program. In addition, 12 credit hours of research is part of the Ed.D program at the University of Florida.

Walden’s Ed.D in special education trains its graduates to solve problems commonly faced in the special education community. Using real-life case studies, students learn to become critical thinkers and arrive at solutions to educate those with disabilities. Walden allows up to eight years to complete the 79 credit program. 

Students will complete two courses per 11-week semester. The program includes training in policy creation and policy assessment, along with how to implement research-based changes to current education approaches. In addition to coursework and a dissertation, the program also includes a face to face residency, which, of course, cannot be completed online. After graduation, students will be prepared to take on leadership and educator roles in a variety of settings, including schools, government, and educator director positions.

The Ph.D. in special education from the University of Minnesota was named in the top ten special education graduate programs in 2019 by U.S. News and World Report. The program trains students to find solutions for people with disabilities to help them thrive academically and personally. This program is 69 credit hours in duration, which can be completed over an average of four years of full-time study. 

This program allows students to choose a minor in which they can select a topic that they would like to explore more deeply. Students will complete 24 credit hours of thesis work while working toward their degree and are required to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA to remain in good academic standing.

The goal of the Ph.D. in special education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is to train special education teachers to address pressing issues in the special education field. Students can select a research interest that intrigues them, such as transitional and vocational education or diversity issues within special education. 

This online degree program is designed to be 56 credit hours with core coursework comprising 18 credit hours. Students will gain the necessary credits by taking courses in research design and statistics, internship experiences, electives, and dissertation courses. The school allows up to seven credit hours of coursework to be transferred into this degree program from another educational institution.

Students wishing to have control of what they learn should check out the Ph.D. in curriculum, instruction, and the science of learning from the University of Buffalo. The degree program allows students to choose a concentration in elementary education, English education, literacy and reading education, mathematics education, or science education. Students who wish to have more control over what they learn should select the general track, which has a more interdisciplinary focus. 

This degree can be completed in as little as four years (but some students take five or more years) and consists of 72 credit hours of coursework. Those with a master’s degree can transfer ten credit hours of coursework into this program bringing down the total credits needed to complete this program to 62. The program also has optional teaching and research internships that online students can complete for credits toward their degree.

The Ph.D. in special education from Texas Tech University is a first-rate degree designed to train graduates to be leaders inside and outside of the classroom. The program is 90 credit hours of coursework, but 30 credit hours can be transferred into this program from another school. Applicants to this program are required to submit official GRE scores, which cannot be more than five years old. 

Students are also expected to participate in at least one internship experience during the course of earning this degree. The internship will count for three credit hours of coursework and can be taken over one semester. Around 21 credit hours of coursework will be spent in studying special education core topics with an additional 24 credit hours in special education electives of the student’s choosing.

The Ph.D. in educational studies with a concentration in special education from Ohio State University is fully funded for students that are accepted into this program. To be a competitive applicant to this program, students must have already completed a master’s degree and have experience teaching or working with the special education population. This program only starts one time per year, in August, and the application deadline is December of the previous year. 

This Ph.D. program is 63 credit hours in duration, with the core curriculum composed of 15 credit hours. The school dedicates 42 credit hours of the program’s total to specialization courses in special education. The remaining six credit hours are accumulated during the dissertation process. The school also provides graduate associateships to its students for those looking to get new teaching experiences. 

The Ph.D. in special education is a joint degree offered by the University of California Berkeley and San Francisco State University, which allows students to specialize in a wider range of subjects than can be offered by just one school. Throughout the Ph.D. program, students pursue three areas of specialization with the ability to choose between predetermined specializations and creating their own specialization by consultation with a faculty advisor. 

Online students participating in this program will complete the same requirements as on-ground students, which include two position papers, empirical study, an internship, oral examinations, and the completion of a dissertation and its defense. Students have the opportunity to participate in the school’s UC SPEDDR Center for Research, a program built specifically to address the special education population.

The Ph.D. in special education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a strong research emphasis designed to train top-notch research scientists. Students in this program will also learn how to write grants and present at state and national conferences. Students can apply for funding for this program, including teaching and research assistantships, and also NC-LEND Fellowships. 

Students in this Ph.D. program can select a concentration in applied developmental sciences, special education, or sociocultural diversity. The program is between 60 to 69 credit hours in duration. This Ph.D. is a non-licensure program, so those wishing to teach may want to consider another program. The degree is estimated to take students anywhere from four to five years to complete.

With Michigan State University’s Ph.D. in special education, you’ll be taught by world-renowned professors with real-world special education experience. Students are able to select their own area of special interest for their concentration or choose a concentration in applied behavior analysis, language and literacy, mathematics or technology. 

When pursuing this degree, students will take six credit hours of coursework in foundational courses, 19 credit hours in research method courses, nine credit hours in special education courses, nine credit hours in an area of interest (concentration), and 24 credit hours in the dissertation, for a total of 67 total hours for the Ph.D.

In Indiana University Bloomington’s Ph.D. in special education, you’ll feel empowered to structure your program around topics that really interest you, and you’ll likely find a faculty member who shares your particular interest. The faculty in this program have vast amounts of experience that cover many areas of special education, so you’ll likely never feel like you’re learning the same thing over and over again. 

Students wishing to pursue this degree can apply for fellowships and assistantships to help cover most or all of the tuition. The program is 90 credit hours long, with 36 credit hours in the special education major. This degree allows students to choose a minor, which is composed of 12 credit hours in the topic selected.

Small class sizes and individualized attention are what you’ll find in the Ph.D. in teaching and learning with a concentration in special education from New York University. The program will prepare you to conduct independent research wherever you end up after graduation so you can contribute to the knowledge and progress in the field of special education. The program ranges from 48 to 60 credit hours in length and up to 72 credit hours for individuals without a master’s degree. 

Full-time Ph.D. students may be eligible for full tuition remission through the Steinhardt Fellows Program. The application deadline for this program is December 1st of each year, and the official start date is in the fall. This program is available in a full-time and a part-time option, so students can self-pace, but if you want to get some of your school paid for then you have to be a full-time student.

The doctorate program at Grand Canyon University will enable educators to hone their skills in working with special education populations. The curriculum includes proper educational interventions in a variety of environments, which allows teachers from K to 12 to work with the special education population in a meaningful and effective way.

Courses cover topics ranging from the political issues within special education, proper educational strategies, to family dynamics and ethics. Since this is an Ed.D program, the emphasis is less on research and more on real-world problem-solving. There are 60 credits in total, and many finish the program in about four years. Because this program is offered online, professionals can plan to continue to work through their doctoral program.

The Ed.D. program at the University of Pittsburgh is geared toward training teachers to develop advanced skills in education, specifically special education. The program is designed to be a part-time study spanning over three years. Therefore, it is suited for working professionals to complete in their off-time. In total, there are 90 credits to complete. 

Students select their area of focus from applied behavioral analysis, autism, blindness/ vision impairments/orientation and mobility, early intervention, emotional and behavioral disorders, or learning disabilities. Unlike Ph.D. programs in special education, the Ed.D program at the University of Pittsburgh is ideal for teachers in practice. 

The application deadline is in February of each year. To be considered for the program, applicants must have 30 graduate credits to transfer. For this program, a GRE is not required.

The University of Kansas’ Ph.D. in special education strives to generate leaders in education to address the institutional barriers which prevent students with special needs from receiving optimal education. The focus is on the needs of students with disabilities, as well as their families.

Students work with their advisors to determine their area of specialization within special education, which encompasses 24 credits. The primary focus is on developing the skills to solve specific problems in the special education field. This is achieved through a heavily researched based curriculum. This education program has been ranked #1, according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Public Institutions. For most, the program is four years in duration and 78 credits in total.

The curriculum of Northcentral University’s special education Ph.D. is concentrated on case law and research to provide evidence-based solutions to the issues faced by the special education population. The focus is on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA), which is a federal law that provides funding for students with special education needs. 

Proper special education student placement, discipline, family rights, and interaction with educators are the primary outcomes of this program. There is ample one-on-one mentoring with doctoral-level faculty who can facilitate exponential learning by sharing their first-hand experience and wealth of knowledge. 

The course itself is extremely flexible, which is ideal for students who are maintaining employment during their program or who thrive on working at their own pace. For most, it takes just under four years to complete the 60 credit hour curriculum.

The focus of the Ph.D. program in early childhood education/early childhood special education at the University of Colorado is on understanding the educational needs of children as well as children with special needs. This program takes a neuropsychological approach that emphasizes brain development and its implications on education style and technique. 

In total, the program is a 75 credit curriculum that is heavily researched based. The goal is to prepare graduates to become scholars and further the field and our understanding of early childhood education and special education. The dissertation is 27 credits, which is more than double the weight compared to some similar programs.

Students pick from seven areas of focus, including leadership for educational organizations, family science for human development, and research, assessment, and evaluation. Students are required to hold a master’s degree to apply for this Ph.D. For most, the program takes between 5-8 years to complete.

The Ph.D. in special education program at the University of Virginia has two avenues of study: high-incidence disabilities or gifted education. With either of these tracks, graduates will be qualified to become teacher educators, scholars, or researchers in the field of special education. 

Of the 72 credits in the program, 54 are coursework, and the remaining are research-based. Research is conducted alongside the esteemed faculty members at the University of Virginia, which fosters mentorship from experienced Ph.D.’s in special education. Furthermore, there are internship programs where students gain important first-hand experience, which they will use in their careers.

Students are evaluated in a variety of ways, including comprehensive examinations, multiple assessments from professors and faculty, and of course, a dissertation. Typically, the program takes students four years to complete.

The special education Ph.D. program at the University of Connecticut has been ranked in the top 20 by U.S News & World Report for education programs. The program includes a combination of hands-on experience as well as research to create graduates who can go on to conduct further research as well as train the next generation of special educators. 

Students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program can customize the direction of their curriculum. There are four foundational categories of coursework: knowledge and content, research and scholarship, university teaching and professional development, and service. For each category, there is a combination of coursework and research.

For students who need it, there are funding and living stipends available. For students who intend to become a full-time researcher at the university afterward, there is the Dean’s Doctoral Scholars Program, which provides all four years of tuition as well as living expenses.

Ball State University’s Ed.D in special education was designed to prepare its graduates to take on pivotal roles in the special education arena. This program is focused on building a core understanding of fundamental special education theories, as well as providing students with the flexibility to curate and develop skills in their individual areas of interest. 

Other essential concepts in Ball State’s Ed.D. program are community and working together. The courses are taught in such a way that reinforces collective problem solving, which is invaluable in a school setting among other teachers and administrators. 

In total, the curriculum has 91 credits, 10 of which are part of the research dissertation. Classes include study in Autism, Teaching Systems, as well as Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. In addition, there is a comprehensive examination at the end of the Ed.D program.

The Ph.D. in special education program at the University of Southern Mississippi is a 66 credit hour program that prepares its graduates to become teacher educator researchers. In this program, the focus is on designing research as well as sharing information to improve the knowledge and skills of special education teachers. 

Courses include a variety of research genres, such as Program Evaluation and Grant Writing in Special Education and Critical Issues in Special Education. Graduates will be able to apply for advance licensure within Mississippi as the program meets all the requirements to do so. Students who wish to become licensed in a different state must check with their state’s requirements for licensure locally.

Nova Southeastern University’s Ed.D program is ideal for students looking to gain valuable knowledge in special education that translates into helping to support educators and students with special needs in the real world. This program is different from Ph.D. programs in special education in that it’s focus is more hands-on versus on research. 

The program consists of 55 credit hours, 27 of which cover core classes such as Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorders. In terms of research, there are 12 credit hours of research classes as well as 12 hours allotted for the program’s dissertation. In general, this program is designed to prepare its graduates to work as educators, professors, mental health providers, or school education administrators.

The University of Toledo’s Ph.D. in special education is focused on helping its students become leaders in the field of special education at a local level as well as the national level. This means they emphasize the real-life implications of research and how to use research in a meaningful way in the field. 

This program has been approved by the Ohio Council of Graduate Schools and is the only program to hold this status. The program itself is four to five years in duration, with 70 credit hours. During the program, students have ample access to their professors and other faculty for guidance and support.

During each semester, students complete six credit hours (2 courses). The classes cover early intervention, assessment tools, research, and more. At the end of the program, students complete a dissertation on a topic of their choosing in special education.

Genuinely helping those that need special education often requires making changes through leadership in the educational system, which is the emphasis of the Doctor of Education from Gwynedd-Mercy College. Students that enter this program generally make it to the end with a 76% graduation rate, which is nearly double the national average for this type of program. 

The program is 54 credit hours long, which can be completed in less than three years for most students. The small class sizes will give you the focus and attention you need when you encounter obstacles. The school has an extensive network of alumni that you will be able to connect with after graduating with your degree that may help you find your next job!

After completing the Ph.D. in special education at Lehigh University, graduates can expect to find employment as teacher educators, professors at universities, as well as other leadership positions in the education arena. Their 60-credits program is completed over four to five years of study. 

The coursework is completed in close contact with an academic advisor, which is primarily research work. Students can select from a variety of areas of focus, such as autism, academic interventions for children with learning difficulties, ADHD, emotional/behavioral disorders, or applied behavior analysis. To enroll, applicants are required to pass the GRE, provide letters of recommendation, obtain a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate studies, as well as submit essays in their application.

The education leadership doctorate at Portland State University is ideal for education professionals who want to advance their careers into leadership positions within education. Although this is not a doctorate in special education specifically, students will choose an area of specialization, such as special education or administration. This program is geared toward people who aspire to become an authority and leader in education. Graduates will be qualified to take on high-level roles in schools and universities. 

In total, the course is designed to take two years and has 27 credits. Each term is 11-weeks in duration. The type of study is a hybrid between in-person learning and online learning. To be accepted into the program, applicants must demonstrate competency in writing, professional experience in the education field, as well as academic ability, among other things.

With the Doctor of Philosophy in educational management from Hampton University, you’ll learn how to navigate the often complex educational system while being able to specialize in special education, higher education, pre-K-12 education, or STEM leadership. If your goal is to effect positive change in the educational system, then learning leadership and management skills are necessary, which is what this degree teaches students. This is a 66 credit hour program that normally takes around 2.5 years for students to complete. 

Courses are held in nine-week modules, which will give you enough time to thoroughly digest the material taught, while quickly progressing through the program. The application deadline for this program is January 15th of each year, and to complete this degree, students are required to attend two summer sessions on-campus that lasts two weeks.

• Removed By Editor More Information

What Is the Difference Between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D? 

This is a good question that we are glad you asked. These degrees vary quite a bit, and one may be more suitable for your future goals than another. Let’s start out with what is similar about both of these degrees. Both of these degrees are doctorates, the highest degree possible in their respective fields, and both of these degrees can have a focus on special education. 

These degrees differ in that a Ph.D. is more of a research-focused degree, which places more emphasis on the production of academic writing than on the practical application of the subject. Conversely, Ed.D degrees place emphasis on the application of learned knowledge, in this case, special education. Students in an Ed.D still learn to evaluate and conduct research, but often these degrees don’t require a thesis. 

Ed.D students are typically required to perform a comprehensive research project in which they may have to select a question, formulate a survey, study, or improvement outline, conduct the project, and present the findings in an academic paper. These projects are commonly conducted in the student’s place of work or in a setting that is familiar to the student. While these projects may sound very similar to a thesis in a Ph.D., these projects tend to be less rigorous and can be completed in a shorter amount of time. 

What Will I Need to Apply to a Ph.D. or Doctorate in Special Education Program? 

So you’ve finally committed to the idea that you’re going to get a doctorate degree in special education, but you’re curious about what you’ll need to submit in the application. Some schools may have specific school and program requirements that are not talked about here, but many schools have some of the same requirements that are asked for in the school’s admission application. We’ll talk about the commonalities for admission into an online doctorate program, but you should check with the school you want to attend about any additional requirements that they may have. 

Many online Ph.D. or doctorate programs in special education, but not all, will want to see that students have completed a master’s degree in the subject, or at the very least a bachelor’s with evidence of work experience in the field. The school is going to want to see official transcripts from all the universities and colleges you have attended in the past. This will show the admissions group how you have been able to handle the academic rigors of college in your past. 

Some programs require that students submit an essay or sample of the prospective student’s writing in their application packet. There will be a lot of writing in a Ph.D. or doctorate program, and students must be able to communicate their ideas clearly and succinctly, and these writing samples held the school ensure you are ready for this level of education. When applying to this program, schools will likely also ask you to submit at least three references, with one being from a professor you have had in the past. 

Should I Attend an Online or On-ground Ph.D. or Doctorate Program? 

The decision to attend an online or an on-ground program has to be made after a careful evaluation of your learning style and the obligations and commitments you have in your life now. If you have completed online coursework in the past and didn’t have trouble turning in assignments on time and completing the coursework, then you’ll likely do fine in an online doctorate program. Students that have difficulty meeting deadlines and have a tendency to procrastinate may find an online program more challenging than an on-ground program. 

Additionally, individuals with full-time jobs and families often find that online programs offer the flexibility and convenience needed to reach their educational goals. Those with families should have a serious discussion about the commitment you are making to enroll in an online doctorate program. Family members of those in an online program often make sacrifices along with the learner with regard to time spent together, and having a fully supportive family will make the doctoral journey much easier. 

The Top 19 Online PhD in Special Education Degree Programs

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

Image Source

The Census Bureau reports that only 1.68 percent of U.S. adults over age 25 have finished a terminal doctorate degree. Attending graduate school for a PhD in Special Education can set you apart in the teaching field with top-level knowledge of childhood disabilities. Doctoral programs in special education develop the research and pedagogical skills required to adapt Common Core curriculum. Earning a doctorate in education leads to mean lifetime earnings at $2.80 million, which is significantly higher than the master’s-level average of $2.26 million. Advanced training can unlock jobs like special education administrator, educational diagnostician , applied behavior analyst, assistive technology specialist, and early intervention director. Some PhD graduates become tenured college faculty to train tomorrow’s special educators.

Thanks to digital technology, finishing your doctorate can happen wholly online too. We’ve devoted the following article to the Top 20 Online PhD in Special Education Degree Programs nationwide. We aligned our order with the U.S. News and World Report rankings for the best graduate online education offerings. Next, we narrowed down the list to universities offering doctoral concentrations for special education teachers primarily online. Strong preference was given to programs recognized by the Council on Accreditation of Teacher Preparation ( CAEP ) and/or Council for Exceptional Children ( CEC ). Other factors we considered were post-grad enrollment, curriculum model, academic rigor, teacher licensing, financial aid, dissertation support, and flexibility.

Here are our selections for the Top 20 Online PhD in Special Education Degree Programs:

1. University of Buffalo-SUNY

Endowed for $619.3 million, the University of Buffalo-SUNY is a flagship public, sea-grant and space-grant RU/VH doctoral institution with over 9,800 post-grad Bulls studying in New York’s Southern Tier and online. The U.S. News recognized UB for the10th best online graduate education programs nationwide. With CAEP approval, the Graduate School of Education confers a 72-credit PhD in Curriculum, Instruction and the Science of Learning online with research clusters like Spatial Literacy and Special Education.

Learn more about the Online PhD In Special Education Program at the University of Buffalo – SUNY here.

2. St. John’s University

Headquartered on Utopia Parkway in Queens, St. John’s University is a private, nonprofit Catholic NAICU member endowed for $644 million that’s upholding Vincentian values to educate over 5,600 post-graduates on-site and online. The U.S. News distinguished SJU for America’s 22nd best online graduate education degrees. Special educators with current NYSED certification could enter the CAEP-accredited School of Education to pursue the 42-credit PhD in Literacy for Diverse and At-Risk Learners online.

Learn more about the Online PhD In Special Education Program at St. John’s University here.

3. University of Colorado – Denver

Attracting over 18,000 students and $375 million in research funding, the University of Colorado-Denver is a public, land-grant RU/H institution created in 1912 that’s offering courses at the Auraria Campus, Anschutz Medical Campus, and online. According to the U.S. News, UC-Denver houses the country’s 47th best online graduate education programs. The CAEP-accredited School of Education grants its 75-credit PhD in Education and Human Development in seven concentrations, including Early Childhood Special Education, online.

Learn more about the Online PhD In Special Education Program at the University of Colorado – Denver here.

4. University of Pittsburgh

Classified as a public, doctoral-granting RU/VH institution with a community impact of $1.7 billion, the University of Pittsburgh has grown since 1787 to enroll more than 9,800 post-grad Panthers on its 132-acre urban campus in Oakland and online. The U.S. News honored Pitt for awarding the United States’ 47th best online graduate education degrees. Aligned to CAEP guidelines, the three-year, part-time EdD in Special Education offers hybrid online courses with specializations like Autism and Early Intervention.

Learn more about the Online PhD In Special Education Program at the University of Pittsburgh here.

5. Regent University

Affiliated with five Fulbright Scholars, Regent University is a private, nonprofit evangelical Christian institution led by Chancellor Pat Robertson with a $186 million endowment that’s serving 3,900 post-grads in Virginia Beach and online. The U.S. News applauded Regent for America’s 56th best online graduate education degrees. Maintaining CAEP accreditation, the Graduate School of Education awards a 66-credit EdD or 75-credit Online PhD in Special Education with only one four-day campus residency each year.

Learn more about the Online PhD In Special Education Program at Regent University here.

6. Concordia University Chicago

Established by Lutheran followers of Johann Konrad Wilhelm Lohe in 1864, Concordia University Chicago transformed from a private teacher’s seminary into a liberal arts institution with over 3,600 post-grad Cougars studying in River Forest and online. The U.S. News lauded CUC for the 66th best online graduate education degrees nationwide. The CAEP-accredited College of Education confers a 61-credit EdD or 67-credit PhD in Special Education Leadership online for master’s-level teachers with LBS1 Endorsement.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Concordia University Chicago here.

7. Drexel University

Opened in 1891, Drexel University is a private, nonprofit RU/H institution that’s enrolling over 10,900 post-grad Dragons in the AITU both online and on-site in Philadelphia’s Powelton Village. As a USDLA Best Practices Award winner, Drexel grants America’s 84th best online graduate education degrees according to the U.S. News. Within the CAEP-accredited School of Education, online cohorts can enter the three-year, part-time EdD in Educational Leadership and Management with a 15-credit Special Education Leadership Concentration.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Drexel University here.

8. University of West Georgia

Originally called the Fourth District A&M School in 1906, the University of West Georgia has evolved into a public, doctoral-granting RU/H institution with a $20.49 million endowment and around 2,000 post-grad Wolves studying from Carrollton to Dalton and online. The U.S. News tied UWG for America’s 84th best online graduate education programs. With CAEP approval, the three-year, 60-credit Online EdD in School Improvement degree confers an Area of Concentration in Special Education.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at the University of West Georgia here.

9. Nova Southeastern University

Sprawling across 480 acres in the Sunshine State’s eighth-largest city, Fort Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University is a private, nonprofit RU/H distance learning hub endowed for $102.7 million to educate nearly 20,100 post-grad Sharks yearly. The U.S. News designated NSU as America’s 84th best online provider of graduate education degrees. The CAEP-accredited Fischler College of Education awards a 54-credit Doctor of Education concentrated in Special Education online with an optional BACB-approved Applied Behavior Analysis track.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Nova Southeastern University here.

10. University of the Cumberlands

Nestled in Williamsburg, Kentucky, around 70 miles north of Knoxville, the University of the Cumberlands is a private, nonprofit Baptist institution that’s holding a $73.3 million endowment to educate around 3,150 post-grad Patriots on-site and online. According to the U.S. News, UC delivers the country’s 92nd best online graduate education offerings with CAEP accreditation. Tracing back to 1888, the School of Education began a 60-credit Doctorate in Educational Leadership with specialty areas like Special Education.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at the University of the Cumberlands here.

11. Texas Tech University

Belonging to the ORAU, Texas Tech University is the Longhorn State’s sixth-largest public, doctoral-granting research hub educating over 6,050 post-grad Red Raiders within the Big 12 Conference in Lubbock, Abilene, Dallas, and online. The U.S. News ranked TTU 108th nationally for the best online graduate education degrees. Adhering to CAEP and CEC standards, the College of Education offers a 90-credit Special Education PhD online for master’s-level teachers with optional Educational Diagnostician Certification.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Texas Tech University here.

12. Portland State University

Occupying a 50-acre, LEED-certified campus in Oregon’s “Rose City,” Portland State University is a public, co-educational APLU research center endowed for $58.4 million that’s welcoming around 5,600 post-grad Vikings on-site and online. The U.S. News recognized PDX as America’s 101st best graduate education school and ninth most innovative college. The CAEP-accredited Graduate School of Education offers an Educational Leadership Doctoral (EdD) in Special Education with hybrid, 11-week sessions with online D2L components.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Portland State University here.

13. West Virginia University

Enrolling around 6,600 post-grad Mountaineers, West Virginia University is a public, land-grant and space-grant RU/VH institution carrying a $515 million endowment for online and on-site teaching in Morgantown. The U.S. News congratulated WVU for America’s 123rd best online graduate education degrees. Approved by the CAEP and CEC, the College of Education and Human Services awards a 42-credit, post-master’s Doctoral Program in Special Education online for PreK-12 certified teachers with two full years of classroom experience.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at West Virginia University here.

14. New Mexico State University

Featuring nearly 121,000 living alumni like Alvy Ray Smith and Paul W. Klipsch, New Mexico State University is a public, space-grant Hispanic-serving RU/H institution endowed for $214.8 million to teach 3,700 post-grad Aggies in Las Cruces and online. The U.S. News ranked NMSU the 101st top graduate education school countrywide. The CAEP-accredited College of Education offers a hybrid, tech-based PhD in Educational Leadership for 78 credits with cognates like Child Development and Special Education.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at New Mexico State University here.

15. University of Northern Colorado

Established as the Colorado State Normal School in 1890, the University of Northern Colorado is a public, doctoral-granting institution located in Greeley to educate over 2,800 post-grad Bears online and on-campus. According to the U.S. News, UNCO houses the nation’s 123rd best online graduate education degrees. Through the Bresnahan-Halstead Center, the 72-credit Special Education PhD is conducted online with CAEP-accredited categorical emphases like Autism, Visual Impairment, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Behavioral Disorders.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at the University of Northern Colorado here.

16. Slippery Rock University

Positioned 52 miles north of Pittsburgh on western Pennsylvania’s largest campus, Slippery Rock University is a public, co-educational PASSHE member that’s endowed for $16.5 million to educate around 700 post-grads on-site and online. The U.S. News placed SRU as the North’s 75th best college and 23rd top public school. Maintaining CAEP accreditation, the College of Education offers a three-year, part-time Doctor in Special Education program primarily online with weekend face-to-face teaching during summers.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Slippery Rock University here.

17. Liberty University

Started by Southern Baptist televangelist Jerry Falwell of Thomas Road Baptist Church in 1971, Liberty University is a private, nonprofit faith-based NAICU institution endowed for $1.05 billion to educate over 12,500 online post-grads from Lynchburg, Virginia. The U.S. News crowned Liberty the 174th best online college nationwide for graduate education. Charging $595 per credit full-time, the CAEP-accredited School of Education grants a 60-credit EdD in Curriculum & Instruction for Special Education online.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education Program at Liberty University here.

18. Gwynedd Mercy University

Founded in 1948 on Willowbrook Farm in 1948, Gwynedd Mercy University is a private, nonprofit CIC member rooted in the Sisters of Mercy’s Catholic tradition to educate around 650 post-grad Griffins from eastern Pennsylvania and online. According to the U.S. News, GMU is the North’s 137th best regional college with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Online master’s-level cohorts finish the CAEP-accredited, 54-credit Accelerated Executive PhD in Educational Leadership in Special Education in just three years.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education at Gwynedd Mercy University here.

19. Walden University

Owned by Laureate Education, Walden University is a global publicly traded, for-profit network led by President Jonathan A. Kaplan that’s enrolling over 48,900 online students in 50 states and 29 countries from Minneapolis-St. Paul. Niche ranked Walden as America’s 73rd best online college and Minnesota’s 22nd top value. Featuring two in-person and two virtual residencies, the CAEP-accredited Riley College of Education’s 86-unit PhD in Education grants nine specializations, including the NAEYC-sponsored Early Childhood Special Education track.

Learn more about the Online PhD in Special Education at Walden University here.

The Top 20 PhD Programs in Special Education The Top 15 Accredited Online Special Education Doctoral Degree Programs The Top 15 Accredited Schools Online Offering Doctoral Degrees in Special Education

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

Online PhD in Special Education Every Student Needs Someone Who Cares

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Learn How to Meet Your Students’ Unique Needs with a PhD in Special Education Online

You are an education professional seeking a terminal degree. You love working directly in the classroom and equipping your students for success. You are passionate about helping students with special needs learn, grow, and thrive.

If that sounds like you, Liberty University’s PhD in Education – Special Education can help. Our program provides an in-depth look at learning theory and research methods with the goal of helping you bolster your effectiveness as an educator. You can learn how to help all of your students — including those with disabilities — excel at every level of education, from kindergarten through college.

Explore methods for making effective, data-driven decisions and implementing evidence-based practices in the classroom. This doctorate in special education online program can help equip you to work as a school leader at public and private institutions. Partner with us and prepare to serve as a Champion for Christ in the education field — and beyond.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty University’s PhD Program in Special Education?

Are you worried that school will get in the way of your other commitments and priorities? If so, we have just what you need! Our PhD in special education is offered 100% online, so you can complete your coursework from the comfort of your home and easily access your materials whenever you need them. Most importantly, you can stay invested in your family and career while furthering your education.

In this online doctoral degree program in special education, you’ll study under professors who have years of experience in research, teaching, and academia. With their guidance, you can gain the tools you need to help your students succeed.

We don’t just train educators — we equip qualified professionals who seek to use their skills in service to God and others. At Liberty, you will analyze education practices through the lens of a biblical worldview. Our faculty are grounded in the Christian faith and are committed to helping you lead with excellence and integrity in the education field.

What Will You Study in Our Online PhD Program in Special Education?

This special education doctoral program online is broken down into 4 main parts: core education courses, research classes, a dissertation project, and the special education concentration. You can gain foundational skills in the theoretical, historical, and philosophical aspects of education. Additionally, you can explore current trends in educational technology, allowing you to stay knowledgeable about the most cutting-edge research in the industry.

Our PhD in special education online courses can help prepare you to meet the needs of students with physical impairments, behavioral disorders, and learning disabilities. In particular, you can learn how to collaborate with families, service providers, and school administrators in helping these students set and achieve academic goals.

Every student is unique, so our courses can help train you to evaluate the needs of individual students and help them reach their full potential. Upon graduation, you could work directly in the classroom or as the director of a special education program. Whether you want to work in early childhood education or at post-secondary institutions, our online PhD in special education can help you pursue your career goals.

This program contains several research methods courses, culminating in an extensive final dissertation project. You’ll have the opportunity to conduct original research and contribute to the base of knowledge in your field.

Potential Career Opportunities

By earning your Doctor of Philosophy in special education, you can pursue a variety of job opportunities in the field of education. Some of the roles you may qualify for include:

• Educational consultant
• K-12 special education teacher*
• Rehabilitation facility director
• School superintendent
• Special education director
• Survey researcher
• Training and development specialist
• University administrator
• University professor

*This career may require a teaching license.

Featured Courses

• EDUC 701 – Advanced Learning Theory and Research
• EDSP 722 – History and Future of Special Education
• EDSP 725 – Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education
• EDSP 726 – Disability and Learning

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Graduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• This program contains optional on-campus intensives . Most intensives are offered in a week-long course format, with a few being offered in a weekend-only format.
• An extensive final dissertation project is required.

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s Doctor of Philosophy in Education Program

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of earning a phd in special education.

By completing this online doctorate degree in special education, you’ll earn a terminal credential that can help demonstrate your expertise to employers. With a PhD, you could potentially earn a higher salary or advance to top-level leadership roles.

Most importantly, our doctorate in special education online can help strengthen your ability to serve students with learning disabilities and make a positive impact on them. You will explore special education teaching philosophy and learn how to help students with disabilities thrive in their academic, professional, and personal life.

What is the difference between an EdD and a PhD in special education?

A Doctor of Education (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are both terminal degrees that offer advanced training in the field of education. However, they have some important differences.

An EdD is a professional doctorate designed to equip you with vocational knowledge. In contrast, our online PhD in special education program can help you pursue a career in research or teaching. Additionally, our EdD requires a final capstone project while our PhD program involves an extensive dissertation.

Both degrees are valuable — you’ll just need to evaluate which one best matches your career goals!

Does this degree require any culminating project?

Liberty’s online PhD program contains an integrated dissertation process, allowing you to work toward your final research project while completing your regular classes.

What are the benefits of pursuing a program like this online?

If you’re a full-time parent or working professional, we provide the flexibility you need to take the next step in your academic journey. Completing your PhD gives you a terminal educational credential that shows employers you have reached the pinnacle of achievement in your field.

What resources will be available to me in this program?

As a doctoral student, you can access a wealth of resources through our top-notch research portal while completing your PhD in Education at Liberty University.

Inner Navigation

• Why Choose Liberty?
• What Will You Study?
• Admission Information

Have questions?

Are you ready to change your future?

Apply FREE This Week*

Request Information

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, non-degree-seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and certificate students.

Request Information About a Program

Request info about liberty university online, choose a program level.

Choose a program level

Bachelor’s

Master’s

Certificate

Select a Field of Study

Select a field of study

Select a Program

Select a program

Next: Contact Info

Legal first name.

Enter legal first name

Legal Last Name

Enter legal last name

Enter an email address

Enter a phone number

Full Address

Enter an address

Apt., P.O. Box, or can’t find your address? Enter it manually instead .

Select a Country

Street Address

Enter Street Address

Enter State

ZIP/Postal Code

Enter Zip Code

Back to automated address search

Start my application now for FREE

Special Education Doctorate Degree (Ph.D.)

An individually crafted program of study prepares you for faculty and leadership positions in colleges, universities, research institutes, or human service agencies.

• Department of Special Education
• Special Education (B.S.)
• Special Education (M.Ed.)
• Early Childhood Education Track (M.Ed.)
• High Incidence Track (M.Ed.)
• Low Incidence: Severe Disabilities Track (M.Ed.)
• Low Incidence: Visual Disabilties Track (M.Ed.)
• Special Education (Ph.D.)
• Request Information

Program Overview

Acquire fundamental research methodology skills requisite for advanced positions in special education and engage in research on topics of particular interest and importance. Prepare and submit grant proposals-many of our students have received grants from the U.S. Department of Education. Have opportunities to publish throughout your program and present your work widely at state, regional, and national conferences. Develop a strong professional portfolio that leads to a faculty or research position in leading programs across the country.

Program Facts

Director of Graduate Studies: Robert Hodapp Admissions Coordinator: Kelly Limina Admission Term: Fall Application Deadline: December 1

Specializations

Early childhood program.

The Early Childhood Program is designed to serve infants, toddlers, young children, and their families who deal with a wide range of developmental delays including cognitive, communication, social, adaptive behavior, or motor skills.

High Incidence Program

The High Incidence Program is designed to serve children and young adults with learning disabilities, behavior disorders, and mild-to-moderate intellectual disability.

Low Incidence Program

The Low Incidence Program is designed to serve children, youth, and adults who have intellectual disability, autism, multiple disabilities, and other students with extensive support needs or visual disabilities.

Tuition and Financial Aid

All admitted Ph.D. students receive funding for at least four years of study, which includes full tuition, a monthly stipend competitive with any college of education in the nation, and health insurance. Based on presented qualifications, Peabody will nominate select students for additional honor scholarships and fellowships that supplement the baseline college award. SPED receives leadership training grants from the Office of Special Education Programs in the U.S. Department of Education that provide doctoral students with tuition, monthly stipends, health insurance, and professional travel. To be eligible for these grants, students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Other funding streams are available for those who do not meet these requirements.

• Application Process

Ohio State nav bar

The Ohio State University

• BuckeyeLink
• Find People
• Search Ohio State

Project LEADERS: Fully funded PhD in Special Education with specializations in severe disabilities and advanced research methods

Preparing future scholars in severe disabi l iti e s and ad vanc e d r e s earch methods.

The Department of Educational Studies Special Education program was recently awarded a grant through the U S Department of Education Office of Special Education Programming that will fund a cohort of five PhD students to study severe disabilities and advanced research methods.

Apply by December 1, 2021 at https://go.osu.edu/spephdapplynow

Learn more about the program at https://go.osu.edu/spedphd

Benefits include:

• Tuition, books, and fees
• Monthly living stipend
• Conference travel and training opportunities
• Mentorship from leading experts in severe disabilities and advanced research methods
• Total value of $194,000

Project LEADERS FAQs:

When does the program begin and end? Students will begin the program in Summer 2022 and graduate in Summer 2026. Prospective students must apply by December 1, 2021.

Is this a full-time or a part-time program? The program is full-time only. A monthly living stipend is included.

Is this an online program? Although some courses will be delivered in an online format, most coursework and training activities will be delivered in person.

What qualifications are required for acceptance? Successful candidates will have a master’s degree and practical experience working with students with severe disabilities in schools.

Is the GRE required? No, the GRE is not required for admission.

Do students need a background in research methods or statistics? No background in research methods or statistics is required. Training will be provided.

Who are students with severe disabilities? This program focuses on studying special education for students with intellectual disability, on the autism spectrum, or with multiple disabilities who have intensive support needs.

Who will advise students in LEADERS? Students will be advised by leading experts in severe disabilities ( Dr. Matt Brock ), advanced quantitative methods ( Dr. Ann O’Connell ), and complex communication challenges ( Dr. Laura Justice ).

How do applicants express interest in LEADERS funding? Every applicant who describes an interest in severe disabilities in their personal statement will be considered for LEADERS funding.

How many students will be accepted into LEADERS?

Five students will be accepted into LEADERS through a competitive admission process.

What research opportunities will be available? Students will receive mentorship on federally funded research projects such as FLIP Recess and PEERS , as well as opportunities to partner on other research projects at the Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy . In addition, students will receive access to restricted datasets from the U.S. Department of Education.

In addition to coursework and mentorship, what additional training opportunities will be available? LEADERS funding will pay for students to receive training to administer the Autism Program Environmental Rating Scale (APERS), attend the Council for Exceptional Children Leadership Summit, attend multiple national conferences in special education, and receive training and consultation from experts from other Universities.

What kind of training will be provided in advanced research methods? Students will complete the Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Quantitative Research Methods.

Will this funding be offered for students who apply after 2021? No, this funding is only available for students who apply by December 1, 2021 for admission in Summer 2022.

Where do students work after they graduate? Recent graduates in the severe disabilities program are currently working as special education faculty at major Universities across the United States including the University of Oklahoma, Duquesne University, and Cleveland State University.

What is it like to live in Columbus, Ohio? Columbus is the 15th largest city in the United States, and offers outstanding opportunities to enjoy art, music, live sports, dining, parks, and nightlife. In addition, Columbus has very affordable housing compared to other metro areas. Read more about living in Columbus here .

Additional questions? Please contact Dr. Matt Brock

One thought on “ Project LEADERS: Fully funded PhD in Special Education with specializations in severe disabilities and advanced research methods ”

Can a student from India living in a good condition with MS apply for any such course

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Alumni & Giving
• Faculty/Staff Directory

The Graduate School of Education and Human Development

• Accreditation
• Adrienne Robinson
• Andrew Flagel
• Anissa Rodriguez
• Antonio Nwozo
• 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
• Jordan Hurd
• 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
• Tammy Peery
• Thelma Davis-Myers
• Touran Waters
• Vinnie Mitchell
• Wesal Abdelbasit
• Yael Findler
• Yuliya Stone
• Zachary Nichols
• 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 Brain Injury and Transition Services
• Graduate Certificate in Secondary Transition Services
• 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
• Master's in Special Education for Cultural Responsiveness and Equity in Teaching
• 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

Jump to navigation

Doctoral Degrees

Disability & psychoeducational studies, special education ph.d..

The Special Education Ph.D. program is designed to develop the expertise needed to develop, examine, and disseminate culturally sustainable evidence-based in special education. Students in the program will develop knowledge and skills in four core areas:

Core 1: Culturally Sustaining Evidence-Based Practices in Special Education Students will gain an understanding of evidence-based practice in special education, issues of equity and justice, and the impact of race, culture, and language. Students will apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Core 2: Research Methods Students will understand statistical methods, research design, and qualitative research methods. They will apply these research skills in conducting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting their own research projects.

Core 3: Personnel Preparation Students will engage in effective teaching within teacher preparation programs at institutions of higher education and in high-needs schools. They will understand teaching methods, program coordination, school collaboration, and issues related to service delivery in high-need schools.

Core 4: Professional Knowledge and Career Skills Students will gain skills in professional leadership development, survival skills, ethics, professional writing, and grant writing. They will apply these skills in various contexts, such as job searches and professional presentations.

Study and evaluate existing research in special education literature in various topics, including assessment, instruction, service delivery, and technology

Learn to design research and use evidence-based practices to address the needs of all students in special education, including those who are culturally, linguistically, and economically diverse

Graduate prepared to be a leader in the field of special education within institutions of higher education

Ph.d. funding opportunities.

We have received two grants through the Office of Special Education Programs within the U.S. Department of Education to fully fund eight doctoral students for four years at the University of Arizona beginning in August 2024. These funding opportunities are only available to U.S. citizens. We aim to enroll students from underrepresented groups, including multilingual and racially diverse scholars, as well as scholars with disabilities. Funding includes tuition, a living stipend (starting at $40,000 per year), travel support, one-time needs-based funds, and more. We encourage you to apply to the Special Education Ph.D. program by January 15, 2024, if you want to be considered for grant funding; however, we will continue to accept applications submitted after the due date.

Apply to the Special Education Ph.D. program .

Preparation of Culturally Sustaining Leaders in Special Education Through Apprenticeship Learning

This doctoral program contributes to the preparation of the next generation of special education scholars committed to sustaining equitable and inclusive learning environments for children and youth with disabilities. Through this program, we aim to increase the number of scholars from underrepresented groups, including multilingual and racially diverse scholars, as well as scholars with disabilities who are interested in advancing equity in special education. Our program offers scholars rich courses through our department and college, and incorporates four structured apprenticeship learning opportunities: (1) a high-needs school apprenticeship to explore and advance culturally sustaining practices for diverse students with disabilities; (2) a program director apprenticeship to promote leadership in teacher preparation; (3) an external apprenticeship in another university, center, or policy organization to advance research skills and develop connections, and (4) a mentor apprenticeship with an external faculty member to cultivate retention and tend to scholars’ academic, social, and emotional well-being.

Learn more about this funding opportunity .

Systems Change for Inclusive Education, a National Collaborative Effort for Students with Extensive Support Needs (SCIENCE-ESN)

The University of Utah and the University of Arizona have partnered to prepare scholars for faculty positions with expertise in effective practices associated with systemic educational change toward equity and inclusion of diverse students with extensive support needs. Through shared coursework, internships in college teaching and student supervision, and externships at high-needs schools and policy agencies, we will prepare doctoral scholars to develop and disseminate knowledge to improve outcomes for students with extensive support needs in research, teaching, and service. We will leverage the expertise of five faculty members across the two institutions as well as ten National Experts, an External Evaluator, and a Community Advisory Committee of nine stakeholders to foster scholars' knowledge and skills in five areas that are associated with systemic educational change, including (1) equity and justice, (2) inclusive education, (3) leadership and policy, (4) positive behavioral supports, and (5) systems change and implementation science.

Sample Courses

SERP 595D Evidence-based Practice in Special Education (3 credits) SERP 603 Equity and Justice in Special Education (3 credits) SERP 590 Single Case Research Design (3 credits) SERP 605 Leadership, Policy, and Administration in Special Education (3 credits)

See Coursework  for more details.

Graduates of the program are national leaders who conduct and design research in higher education and school settings. They also serve as directors of special education and administrators in public or private facilities.

For more information about the program, contact Associate Professor Sunggye Hong .

Search Utah State University:

Available grants - disability disciplines.

Multidisciplinary Doctoral Program in Evidence-based Practice and Implementation Science

Interested in working to close the research to practice gap in special education?

Apply to our fully funded multidisciplinary and systematic doctoral program designed to produce highly effective higher-education faculty members in fields related to serving people with disabilities.

Program Details

Scholars in this program will complete the requirements of either the Special Education or Applied Behavior Analysis specializations within the Disability Disciplines Doctoral Programs, in addition to two implementation science courses. Learn more about the Disability Disciplines Doctoral Program requirements .

Contact Information

Kaitlin Bundock

Associate Professor

Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling

Grant Funding Details

Program starts August 2023

$20,000/year stipend

All tuition costs are covered

Conference travel funds

Eligible for university health benefits

Program Admission Requirements

• Application deadline is January 15, 2023
• Master's Degree or equivalent
• Demonstrated academic ability
• Documented research experience or potential
• Direct service school or clinical experience
• Clear and explicit commitment to use evidence-based practice to promote student outcomes
• Career goal to become faculty in Institute of Higher Education

Why apply to the USU Disability Disciplines PhD Program?

As part of the training program, you will acquire expertise in:

• evidence-based practice as it relates to your particular content area (e.g., applied behavior analysis, mathematics, literacy, transition)
• implementation science, an emerging innovative area of focus that merges research and practice
• transparent research methods (i.e., open science)

In addition to these specialized areas of training, you will also benefit from:

• A multidisciplinary doctoral training program with a strong record of graduates obtaining faculty positions
• Doctoral program faculty members with expertise in evidence-based practice, implementation science, research methods, and focused content areas
• Established relationship with local schools and clinics
• Collaborative doctoral coursework focused on evidence-based practice, implementation science, transparent and robust research methods, and areas related to your content specialization
• Close mentorship and advising by doctoral faculty members to guide you in completing program products that relate to research, university teaching, supervision, and implementation internships

January 25, 2024

USU Special Education Researchers Awarded $5.4M for Pilot Program with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grant awarded to the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. The DIF grant will expand access to transition services for youth and young adults with disabilities and will enhance partnerships among vocational rehab...

Applied Behavior Analysis Faculty

Sophia D’Agostino

Assistant Professor

435-797-3240

[email protected]

Thomas S. Higbee

Professor and Department Head

435-797-1933

[email protected]

Audrey N. Hoffmann

435-797-6371

[email protected]

Timothy A. Slocum

435-797-3212

[email protected]

Special Education Faculty

435-797-3911

[email protected]

Stephen Kwiatek

435-797-3251

[email protected]

Kristen Rolf

435-797-1584

[email protected]

Willa van Dijk

435-797-7320

[email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What emphasis areas under the Disability Disciplines Doctoral Program are eligible for funding under this grant?

Two emphasis areas are eligible for funding under this grant: Applied Behavior Analysis and Special Education

How do I apply?

Apply online through the School of Graduate Studies. Application fee waivers are available to students who demonstrate financial need, are first-generation students, identify as a member of a racial, ethnic, LGBTQ+, or other community or group historically underrepresented in our field, or have served or are serving as members of the U.S. military. Our overall goal as a department is to ensure the application fee is not a barrier of entry to our programs, so please reach out if it is. Fee waivers are confidential and are not disclosed to admissions committees. Please contact our graduate coordinator, Megan Murdock , 435-797-3245 , if you would like to be considered for an application fee waiver or if you have any further questions.

What are the admission deadlines

The application deadline is January 15, 2023.

Is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) required?

Is the program an on-campus or a distance program?

The program is on campus.

What does the grant cover, in regards to tuition and fees?

The grant covers the full cost of tuition, and also includes additional funds that can be used to cover the cost of required course books and supplies. Additional funding may be available to cover the cost of some student fees.

Is there funding available to support student research?

The grant includes funding for student research supplies (e.g., participant incentives, software, etc.).

Is there funding available to support student travel to conferences?

The grant includes funding to cover attendance and travel to approximately one academic conference per year per student.

What is the service obligation associated with receiving OSEP grant funding?

A condition of receiving the OSEP grant funding (as a scholarship) is that you must complete a service obligation to repay all or part of the costs. For each academic year scholars receive assistance, they must maintain full-time employment for the equivalent of two years, or repay the Federal government for the portion of assistance they received that has not been repaid through service.

How do scholars fulfill their service obligation?

Through eligible employment by providing indirect or direct service to students with disabilities. Scholars’ employers validate employment eligibility. Employment positions must meet the following criteria: Be a paid position that is not funded by any OSEP grant Must be direct or indirect service:

• Direct : at least 51% of the infants, toddlers, and children with whom the individual provides services are receiving special education, related services, or early intervention services from the individual, or the individual spends at least 51% of their time providing such services to infants, toddlers, and children with disabilities and the children must be eligible to receive services under IDEA
• Indirect: position involves supervision (e.g., principal, teaching at postsecondary level, research, policy, technical assistance, program development, admin) and the individual spends at least 51% of their time performing work related to the training for which a scholarship was received

• Prospective Undergraduate Students
• Prospective Graduate Students
• Scholarships and Financial Aid
• College of Education Scholarships
• Scholarship FAQ's
• How to Apply
• Professional Development
• Schedule a Visit
• ExCEL Program Details
• ExCEL Program
• Student Teaching Abroad
• Components of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
• Meet the Current Humphrey Fellows at Penn State
• Apply for ExCEL
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Teacher Testing & Certification
• World Campus Education Doctorate Faculty Affiliates
• World Campus Education Doctorate Students Fall 2023
• World Campus Education Doctorate Students Spring 2024
• World Campus Education Doctorate Students Fall 2024
• World Campus Education Doctorate Summer Summit
• CAPS Table of Contents
• Career and Technical Education Certifications
• Center Advisory Committee
• Cooperative Education
• Teaching the Educator
• Workforce Education Forum
• PPDC Territories
• Doctoral Degree Program
• WFED Faculty and Staff
• Postbaccalaureate certificates
• Graduate Minor in Adult Education
• M.Ed Degree
• D.Ed. Degree
• PH.D. Degree
• Careers in LLAED
• LLAED Resources
• LLAED Faculty
• Lifelong Learning and Adult Education
• LLAED Students
• Student Dissertations
• Scholarship and Research Integrity Requirements
• Visiting the Program
• Forms and Resources
• History and Ranking
• PDN Webinars
• Student Projects
• WFED Virtual Conference
• PDN Publications
• PDN Career Coaching Program
• PDN Upcoming Events
• PDN Directory
• Director's CTE Certification
• Master of Professional Studies in Organization Development and Change
• Master of Science in Workforce Education and Development
• Master of Education in Workforce Education and Development
• Organization Development and Change Master's Program
• Undergraduate Certificates
• Learning, Design, and Technology Students
• LDT Ph.D. degree
• Research and Teaching
• Students Information
• Rehabilitation and Human Services Special Interest Areas
• Rehabilitation and Human Services Minor
• Rehabilitation and Human Services Internship
• Educational Psychology Admission Information
• Educational Psychology Doctoral Degree Program
• Educational Psychology Master's Degree Program
• Counselor Education Ph.D. Degree
• Career Counseling Emphasis
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling in Schools and Communities Emphasis
• Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling Emphasis
• Rehabilitation Counseling Emphasis
• School Counseling Emphasis
• Counselor Education Ph.D. Application Information
• Counselor Education M.Ed. Application Information
• Dr. Edwin L. Herr Clinic
• Project TEAM
• Special Education Clearances and Insurance Requirements
• Special Education Competency Clusters
• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction
• Ph.D. Manual
• Exploring Directions in Ubiquitous Computing and Teacher Education (EDUCATE)
• K–12 Reading Specialist Certification
• Course Schedule
• How to Apply, Teaching with Immersion, ESL
• What Do TESL Alumni Say?
• PDS Intern Guide
• Social Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certification
• Curriculum & Supervision
• Curriculum and Instruction and Women Studies
• Early Childhood Education
• Language, Culture, and Society
• Literacies and English Language Arts
• Mathematics Education
• Frequently Asked Questions for Science Education
• Science Education Lab
• Secondary English Teacher Preparation
• Social Studies Education
• Doctor of Philosophy
• For New Students
• Assistantships
• Master of Science
• Secondary English Professional Development School Guidebook
• Welcome to our secondary English Professional Development School website
• PDS Application
• Research and Evaluation
• Student Aid and Awards
• Core Values of Elementary & Early Childhood Education
• Suggested Courses
• Middle Level Math Education, B.S. (4-8)
• Undergraduate Middle Level English Course Selections
• Undergraduate Social Studies Course Selections
• Undergraduate Secondary Literature Course Selections
• Secondary Education in Science Education, B.S. (7-12)
• Secondary Education in Math Education, B.S. (7-12)
• Secondary Education in English Education, B.S. (7-12)
• Secondary Education in Social Studies Education, B.S. (7-12)
• Penn State Teacher Education Framework
• Early Field Experience Overview
• Pre-Kindergarten through Fourth Grade Option
• Application for Student Teaching
• C I 495C Mentor Guidebook
• CI 495A Mentor Guidebook
• CI 495B Mentor Guidebook
• Next Steps after the Application
• Prerequisites for Student Teaching
• Short Term Student Teaching Abroad
• CIFE: Elementary & Early Childhood Education (PK-4)
• CIFE: Middle Level Education (4-8)
• Secondary Education & World Languages Student Teaching
• Professionalism
• Access the PSU Record of Application
• Entrance, Retention and Exit Criteria
• Certification Process
• Alternative Routes to Certification
• Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification
• Teaching in a State Other than Pennsylvania
• Act 48 - Professional Development Plans for PA Educators
• Education Majors in Other Penn State Units
• Student Forms and Policies
• EPS Department Contacts
• Education Policy Studies Teacher Leaders Conference
• Education Policy Studies - Not Sure?
• Center for Education and Civil Rights
• Broadband Access and Rural School and Community Development
• Charter Schools' Impacts on Rural School Districts
• Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Development
• Partnering to Strengthen Rural Indian Education
• Poverty, Housing Insecurity and Student Transiency in Rural Areas
• Researchers Find Few Positives in Vermont's Proposed Education Reforms
• Rural High School Student Aspirations & College Success for Rural Youth
• Rural Schooling and Agrarian Change: Global Perspectives on Education and Development
• Rural and Community Contexts for Childhood Obesity
• HEPAC Alumni Directory
• HEPAC Board of Directors
• HEPAC Committees, Philanthropy and Initiatives
• HEPAC Constitution and Bylaws
• HEPAC Faculty and Alumni in the News
• HEPAC Helpful Links
• HEPAC Meetings and Events
• HEPAC Membership Information
• HEPAC Past Board of Directors Members
• Pennsylvania School Study Council
• Center for Educational Disparities Research
• Center for Evaluation and Education Policy Analysis
• Higher Education Program Alumni Council
• Become a Member
• Agencies Supporting Education
• Research and Outreach
• Topics in Rural Education
• Meeting Needs
• Policy Briefs
• Technical Assistance
• Batschelet Conference
• CIED Admission Process
• CIED Alumni
• CIED Affiliate Faculty Information
• CIED Core Faculty Information
• CIED Master's Requirements
• CIED Ph.D. Requirements
• Doctoral minor in Comparative and International Education
• Dual-Title Doctoral degree in Comparative and International Education
• Dual-Title Master's degree in Comparative and International Education
• More Information about the CIED Program
• Admissions information, Ph.D. in Educational Leadership
• Current Educational Leadership students
• Admissions Information, D.Ed. in Educational Leadership
• Educational Leadership Alumni
• Admissions Information, M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (University Park)
• Admissions Information, M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (World Campus)
• Superintendency Graduate Certificate
• Admissions Information, Principalship Graduate Certificate
• Admissions Information, Teacher Leadership Graduate Certificate
• Educational Leadership and Joint Degrees with Penn State Law
• Educational Leadership/Comparative and International Education Dual-Title Degrees
• Educational Leadership: Centers, Councils & Journals
• Meet the Educational Leadership Faculty
• Education Policy and Leadership
• EDTHP Current Students on the Job Market
• Educational Theory & Policy with a Dual Title in Comparative & International Education
• Educational Theory & Policy: Application Process
• Educational Theory and Policy Alumni
• Educational Theory and Policy and Joint Law Degree
• Educational Theory and Policy Ph.D. Degree
• Educational Theory and Policy M.A.
• What is Education and Public Policy?
• EPP - Path Through the Major
• EPP - Internship Experience
• EPS Minor Program Description
• EPS Minor Requirements
• EPS Minor Career Paths
• Alum in Higher Education
• Contact the Program
• Current Students in Higher Education
• Higher Education M.Ed. Flexible Options
• Institutional Research Certificate FAQs
• Higher Education FAQs
• Higher Education & Comparative and International Education Dual-Title Degree
• D.Ed. Degree in Higher Education
• Higher Education Online M.Ed. via World Campus
• Higher Education Residential M.Ed. with Graduate Assistantship
• How To Apply, Higher Education, M.Ed.
• Higher Education and the Joint Law Degree
• How To Apply to the Institutional Research Certificate Program
• Meet the Institutional Research Certificate Program Faculty
• Meet the Higher Education Faculty
• How To Apply, Higher Education, Ph.D.
• Journey Success Center
• In The News
• Ways to Get Involved
• Community of Practice for Familiy Literacy
• Goodling & ISAL Bi-Monthly Newsletter
• Goal #1: Goodling Institute Research
• New Book on Family Literacy Theories, Policies, and Practices
• From scratch: Using AEFLA funds to develop a family literacy program
• Family Pathways Program
• Research Spotlight
• Career Pathways Program
• Data Support (eData)
• Workforce Development
• IES Career Pathways Research
• Integrated Education and Training (IET) Initiative Library
• Funding Opportunities
• Grant Resources
• D.C. Social Justice Initiative
• Equity Work Within The College
• Mission of the Office Of Education and Social Equity
• Office of Education And Social Equity Team
• Summer College Opportunity Program in Education
• College of Education Faculty Affairs Resources
• College of Education Commencement Information
• College of Education Curricular Affairs Meeting Schedule and Deadlines
• Faculty Resources
• First Year Seminars
• Professional Certification Coordinating Council
• Student Resources
• Diversity & Community Enhancement Committee
• Vision and Mission
• Strategic Planning
• Staff & Contact
• Annual Report 2017-18
• Annual Indicators
• CAEP Annual Indicators
• CAEP Overview
• Certification Requirements Met
• Completer Data Summaries
• Completer Survey Results
• Completers Hired
• Commonwealth Campuses
• Overview of the College
• Alumni Magazine
• Annual Giving Societies
• Atherton Society
• Lifetime Giving Societies
• Philanthropy Priorities
• Philanthropy in Action
• Ways to Give
• Alumni-Student Mentoring Program
• Program Alumni Groups
• Past Alumni Society Award Winners
• Alumni Resources
• Alumni Society Board
• Alumni Student Teacher Network
• Newsletter Signup
• Commencement
• Graduate Funding Opportunities
• Student Groups
• Council Members & Committees
• Minutes of the Faculty Council
• Carrara Education Technology Center (CETC)
• Communications Office
• Events Guidance
• College of Ed Conference Rooms
• Krause Studio Conference Room Reservation Request
• Research Conference Room Request
• Mailing Services
• Social Media Guidelines
• COVID-19 Forms
• College of Education Task Forces
• Commitment to Equity
• Councils and Committees
• Design Resources
• Faculty, Staff, and Student Awards
• Finance Office
• 25-Year Award
• College of Education Policies and Guidelines
• Messages for undergraduate students from Dean Lawless
• Checklist for remote working capability
• Staff Advisory Council
• Technology Committee
• Graduate Recruitment Funding Programs
• Research Conference

Special Education Ph.D.

The Ph.D. in Special Education is an academic degree designed to prepare special educators for leadership roles in research and graduate education. We provide doctoral candidates with the critical skills needed to be successful in higher education. Like most doctoral programs, our program requires coursework that provides knowledge about the field of special education, about theoretical models, and about research and statistical methods. Unlike most traditional doctoral programs, the Penn State program does not presume that day-to-day professional skills are learned incidentally during doctoral study or the first years on the job. Instead, the faculty provides models, mentoring, shaping, and response opportunities to help you acquire and practice the professional skills expected of professionals in the settings encountered subsequent to graduation. Our students learn by doing.

For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates. All applicants are expected to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher from prior coursework. All applicants are expected to have a minimum of three years professional experience working with individuals with disabilities.

The process of applying for graduate admission at Penn State requires the following application materials, all of which are submitted via  The Graduate School's online application .  

Graduate Application and application fee – Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. You will need to upload the following items as part of your online application.

Résumé or curriculum vitae

Personal statement – A one to two page statement addressing your purpose and objectives in enrolling in a graduate program in Special Education.

Transcripts – A copy of an official transcript from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State, but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. Upon admission and your acceptance of admission, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

Three references – Reference forms will be uploaded directly to the Graduate School application by the reference writer who will receive an email from the Graduate School after the applicant enters reference contact information into the application.

GRE Scores (PSU Institution Code: 2660) – Suspended for 2023-24 application cycle.   Official test results from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) must be submitted electronically by ETS directly to Graduate Enrollment Services at Penn State.  Advanced subject results are optional. The  GRE website  provides information about testing centers and dates.   To insure that the scores will reach us in time for consideration of your application, please schedule your exam no later than two (2) months in advance of the semester deadline. Test scores that are more than five (5) years old will not be accepted.

Proof of English Proficiency (PSU Institution Code: 2660) –  The language of instruction at Penn State is English. All international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with some exceptions. For detailed information please visit the Graduate School's  Requirements for Graduate Admissions  page.  Applicants should request that TOEFL scores be sent to Penn State electronically. Applicants should request that IELTS scores be mailed directly to Penn State's Graduate School at the following address: The Pennsylvania State University Graduate Enrollment Services 114 Kern Building University Park, PA 16802

How To Apply  

Create a Penn State account or log into your existing account.

Choose “DEGREE ADMISSION” as your enrollment type.

Choose "UNIVERSITY PARK" as your campus.

Choose “SPECIAL EDUCATION” as your major.

Choose “PH D” as your degree.

Applications deadlines for each semester are noted below. It is strongly recommended, however, that applications be submitted by December 1 of the prior academic year in order to receive full consideration for financial funding.

April 1 for Fall semester admission

November 1 for Spring semester admission

April 1 for Summer semester admission

Degree Requirements

Each student's program is guided by an academic adviser and committee of graduate faculty members. Student programs are structured according to students' past experiences and career objectives. Differentiation in preparation is reflected in different programs of study, cognate areas or minors, and areas of emphasis within special education. However, all Ph.D. candidates must pass a Qualifying Examination, meet specified English competencies, complete a series of Competency Activities, pass Ph.D. Comprehensive examinations (including the final oral examination), and complete a doctoral dissertation demonstrating the ability to use theory to develop and evaluate educational practice. In addition, all candidates must meet the minimum course requirements for the degree. These requirements include 24 credits of research methods, 9 credits in a minor or related field, and 36 credits in education. Up to 30 credits earned in a master's degree program may be applied with the approval of the student's committee. The specific courses used to meet these general requirements may vary considerably from student to student.

The professional requirements are designed to help students meet the criteria of the next environment (CONE). When developing the CONE model, our faculty performed several steps, two were critical: (a) identifying the major roles and responsibilities of the successful professional, and (b) organizing the program to prepare students to meet these expected demands. The major roles were, for the most part, taken from university promotion and tenure guidelines and an analysis of the day-to-day responsibilities of university faculty. While some of the information and skills are presented in graduate seminars, the majority of the competencies are learned through one-to-one interactions with individual faculty.

Cone Competencies

Doctoral students are expected to be effective college teachers. Typically, doctoral candidates take a course, then assist in that course (frequently giving two to three lectures). Then, the doctoral candidate enrolls in SPLED 602 and takes major responsibility for teaching that course. This sequence allows the student to become familiar with the content and structure of the course before taking over major responsibilities. Students are provided with guidance and feedback by the professor in charge of the course throughout the entire process. Additionally, students will have an opportunity to deliver guest lectures in other classes. Along with college teaching, doctoral students will have opportunities to supervise undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in student teaching or other practicum experiences. Faculty work closely with doctoral students during supervision to develop supervisory competency.

A variety of closely supervised writing experiences, using feedback systems common to professional publishing, are also part of the program. Students learn to write and submit grant proposals and several kinds of scholarly papers (including literature reviews and data- based studies). Because of these experiences, students are amply prepared to complete their dissertations and have at least one published manuscript before graduation. Furthermore, as a result of the grant writing experience, many students have received funding to conduct their dissertation research.

With faculty guidance and support, students design and conduct in service training, submit proposals for presenting at state and national conferences, and provide consultation to local and state agencies. Because most of our faculty are on the editorial boards of major special education journals, students also have opportunities to review manuscripts submitted to these journals

All students will be able to attend faculty meetings at the departmental, college, and university levels. These experiences allow students to see first-hand the types of decision making processes taking place in higher education. Additionally, doctoral students take part in interviewing new special education faculty and learn what it will be like when they seek their first college position.

A variety of other skills are included as part of the CONE program. While these skills do not fall under areas typically included in promotion and tenure guidelines, they are nonetheless important. Topics include interviewing for jobs, vita preparation, academic freedom, professional ethics (especially when working with students), negotiating publishing contracts, and working with support staff. The majority of these topics are covered in the context of a professional seminar.

• Development Testing

Contact the Professor in Charge

Associate Professor of Education (Special Education) Professor in Charge

215 CEDAR Building , University Park, PA, 16802

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 814-865-3567

Contact the Academic Program Coordinator

Academic Program Coordinator

125 CEDAR Building , University Park, PA, 16802

Phone: (814) 863-1699

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
• International transcripts must be submitted in the original language.
• Your transcript should include date of graduation and title of the awarded academic degree
• If your transcript is not in English, you must also provide a certified English translation
• You do not need to have your transcript evaluated for the degree by an agency

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 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 Faculty

Maggie Beneke

Carol Davis

Alice Bravo

Angel Fettig

Roxanne Hudson

Katherine Lewis

Kathleen Artman Meeker

Charles Peck

Selma Powell

Carly Roberts

Nancy Rosenberg

Ilene Schwartz

Scott Spaulding

Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

Last updated July 15, 2022

Next in my series on  How To Fully Fund Your PhD , I provide a list below of universities that offer full funding to all students admitted to their PhD programs in education, international education, and educational leadership.

You can find several competitive, external fellowships in the ProFellow database for graduate and doctoral study, but it is useful to seek out PhD programs that offer full funding to all admitted students. When a doctoral program indicates that they provide full funding to their PhD students, in most cases this means they provide each admitted student full tuition and a stipend for living expenses for the four to the six-year duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Not all universities provide full funding to their doctoral students, which is why I recommend researching the financial aid offerings of all the potential PhD programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools both in the U.S. and abroad.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Universities offering Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

Boston university, phd in educational studies.

(Boston, MA): Students admitted to the program will be fully funded for five years. Students work closely with BU Wheelock faculty as assistants in research and teaching.

Drexel University, PhD in Education & Educational Leadership

(Philadelphia, PA): Drexel University provides tuition remission, a living stipend, and health insurance subsidies through research and teaching assistantships.

Harvard University, PhD in Education

(Cambridge, MA): Harvard guarantees full financial support to PhD students—including tuition, health fees, and basic living expenses—for a minimum of five years. This multi-year funding package includes a combination of tuition grants, stipends, traineeships, teaching fellowships, research assistantships, and other academic appointments.

New York University, PhD in Education

(New York, NY): NYU Steinhardt awards all students (including international students) who are offered full-time admission to our Ph.D. programs a full funding and mentoring package.

Queen’s University, PhD in Education

(Ontario, Canada): Queen’s guarantees a minimum funding package currently valued at $18,000 [CAD] per year for four years for full-time doctoral students; in most cases, funding packages are higher (2011-12 Average: $25,800). In addition, Queen’s guarantees an international tuition award (or equivalent award) valued at $5,000 per year for four years for eligible international doctoral students.

University of California Irvine, PhD in Education

(Irvine, CA): Effective 2015, all incoming UC Irvine PhD in Education students, including California residents, non-residents, and international students, are offered five years of financial support. Funding includes an academic year stipend or salary, tuition and Student Services Fee waiver, and student health insurance.

University of California San Diego PhD in Education

All PhD students at UC San Diego are guaranteed funding for five years which is equivalent to the amount allocated for a 50% TA position. Funding packages can consist of instructional assistantships, Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) positions, university or outside fellowships, and/or stipends. A minimum financial support package of $20,000 for the first year.

University of Colorado, PhD in Education

(Boulder, CO): Admitted doctoral students received four-year funding packages including a stipend and a tuition grant equal to the cost of tuition (in-state and out-of-state).

University of Michigan, PhD in Education

(Ann Arbor, MI): Funding for students admitted into our doctoral programs includes tuition, health and dental benefits for students and their families, and a stipend for living expenses. Each of the programs also provides additional support for conference travel, research projects, and writing. 

Michigan State University PhD in Education

(East Lansing, MI): For most students in the doctoral program, international and domestic, the primary source of on-campus support is graduate assistantships. Assistantship stipends depend on the level of assistantship. In addition to the stipend, all graduate assistants receive a waiver of nine (9) credits of tuition per semester. They offer a variety of multi-year recruiting fellowships for incoming doctoral students.

University of Virginia, PhD in Education

(Charlottesville, VA): Financial support packages, which may include a combination of fellowship funding, bi-weekly pay, tuition remission/adjustment, and health insurance, are decided at various administrative levels.

Vanderbilt University, PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy

(Nashville, TN): All Peabody graduate (Ph.D.) students receive full tuition funding through a combination of University Tuition Scholarships and/or merit awards.

Stanford University Fully Funded PhD in Education

(Stanford, CA): Stanford GSE offers all admitted Ph.D. students a five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance. Click here for more funding information.

University of Arkansas, PhD in Education Policy

(Fayetteville, AR): Graduate assistantships offer qualified applicants a full tuition waiver, a health insurance benefit plus an attractive annual stipend. Distinguished Doctoral Fellowships are combined with graduate assistantships to provide a package of stipends totaling $40,000 per year a tuition waiver, and further benefits.

University of Washington, PhD in Education

(Seattle, WA): The UW College of Education Faculty Council distributes a number of scholarships annually. The College of Education supports 120+ graduate students each academic year through teaching, research, and staff assistantship positions. Primary consideration is usually given to doctoral students.

Washington University in St. Louis, PhD in Education

(Saint Louis, MO): Ph.D. students receive full tuition remission, a health fee subsidy, and a monthly stipend to defray living expenses. The stipend is paid over 12 months (August-July), which includes summer funding. Washington University guarantees funding for Ph.D. students for up to six years as long as satisfactory progress is made in their program. Competitive fellowships are also available.

Concordia University, PhD in Education

(Quebec, Canada): Competitive funding packages in the form of awards, teaching, and research assistantships are offered at the time of admission to most students to allow them to focus on their research and studies. Students are automatically considered for all entrance graduate awards when they apply to Concordia, provided they meet eligibility criteria.

Indiana University, PhD in Education

They offer a variety of funding opportunities for Ph.D. students, including fellowships, research, and teaching assistantships which include a stipend, tuition remission, and student health insurance. All admitted graduate students who meet departmental deadlines are automatically considered for available fellowships.

University of Pennsylvania, PhD in Education Policy

(Philadelphia, PA ): All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and they offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

University of Delaware, PhD in Education

(Newark, DE): Full-time Ph.D. in Education students receive financial support for four years through a variety of sources, including assistantships and tuition scholarships. Students with assistantships receive a 100% tuition scholarship and a 9-month stipend, plus health insurance. Merit-based supplemental funding is available.

For application tips on applying to a PhD program, see  How To Get Into a Fully Funded PhD Program: Contacting Potential PhD Advisors .

Find more graduate fellowships for doctoral study and dissertation research in ProFellow’s fellowships database .

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved.

Related Posts:

• Fully Funded PhD Programs in School Psychology
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Psychology
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in English
• Fully Funded PhD Programs in Mathematics
• Fully Funded MD-PhD Programs

Education Fellowships , Fully Funded PhD Programs , PhD in Education

Exploring Europe: 3 Questions With Marshall Memorial Fellow Dean Fealk

Peace corps perks: post-service graduate school fellowships, 62 thoughts on “fully funded phd programs in education”.

Thank you so much for compiling this useful information. Finally a resource that cuts out the fat and leans right into the meat of the information!

Now I am doing Master in Marketing & Management from India Pune University. So I have dream that I want do PhD in Retail which is in the abroad and I am unable do that due to fund so I need guidance of fully funded PhD program.

I am Binod k.c from Nepal. I have a masters degree in management. I have an education of 17 years, can I apply for Phd or not. To apply for Phd I need the education of 18 years or I can study by 17 years. What percentage is needed in masters to apply for the Phd. I hope for the reply.

I am a professional teacher and need to do my PhD on scholarship as i cannot foot the the fees

Hi I have interest in obtaining a phD in education how do I apply for a scholarship?

PLS I AM INTERESTEDIN PHD IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT. I HAVE M.SC IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH MAJOR ININTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

I am Lekha Erandi,Lecturer in Mass communication ,Open University of Sri Lanka. I’m interested in the field of development communication, women and media and Environmental communication. For my post graduate studies, I did the research based on religious communication. Now I already submitted my MA thesis, it is based on communication for community development. Through study,I strongly believe that communication is the bridge to empower grass root people. My basic degree and post graduate programs were done locally. But as an academic I hope to explore my knowledge widely. and I hope to start my PHD studies in a foreign university as believe that explore would be more important to develop academic credentials.i would like to get some information about fully funded phd in mass communitarian.

I hold Masters in Mathematics Education. Is it possible for me to get fully funding PhD in Mathematics Education to offer. Thank you.

Now I am on the way o finishing M.A in educational leadership and management in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) university. I wish to continue PhD as soon as possible in abroad country…….Could you please help me?

I have Masters in Educational management and I would like to do a PhD in the same field but I have no money.Help me get a scholarship.I will be grateful.Thank u.

i want to do my phd in education.i have completed my master in education. But i need full funded scholarship.How is it possible?

How can I get funding as a Ugandan who has MA Education and worked for six years as adjunct a lecturer in Education.

Thank you very much… The information was useful.

This is really good information.

OK, BUT what is their application based acceptance rates? That is, how many valid applications do they get and how many applicants are then offered acceptance letters?

My Directory of Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education, available at the link above, includes acceptance rates of the programs.

I just applied to a PhD program at Drexel’s School of Education. Fully Funded co-horts are not available. It is $1100 per credit, plus fees…

Hi Meg, thanks for this update! I will look into this and remove Drexel from this list.

Yikes, that price is literally insane.

Very useful information you’ve presented here after scouring the internet for weeks. This term fully funded was the buzzword I was missing. Now to find fully funded PhD programs that can be done online with minimal residency so I don’t have to uproot my family and my current teaching load. Are there any online programs that are fully funded?

Tracy, I have not been able to find any so far. Online programs are typically offered by for-profit universities. However, if you can find a 3-year PhD position that does not require the normal 2 years of course (typically you need to have a Master’s/postgraduate degree already to be eligible for these), you may not need to be in-resident. These programs are more common in Europe, Asia and Oceania. Thus you might spend some time abroad to get started, and then could complete your PhD dissertation remotely. This would require negotiation with your supervisors.

Vicki Johnson, do you have any specific ideas for programs? I have a Master’s degree in English but looking into a doctoral program in International Education or similar. My background is teaching ESL and English.

Try Colorado State University, their program is fairly new (10) but they have some online portion and a short residency program.

Do you have any information about fully funded Ed.D programs?

Same question!

Thank you for the information. I will be finished with my MAT (Biology ) in 2018 and am looking for a PhD program in Education. The program must be fully funded and in Maryland because I am a new Mom and my husband’s job is here in MD. I hope to find something so that we don’t have to move.

Hi Taj, I would suggest looking into the university programs that are nearby you. You can call the admissions office to find out if they offer full funding packages to incoming doctoral students.

Thank you so much and I will do that asap.

Johns Hopkins

Thank you so much Ms. Love.

Really? Do they fully fund?

Hello Johns Hopkins university has a fully funded Phd program in Education.

Did you find something? Same here!

Have you looked at the Universities at Shady Grove?

Hello I am looking now after reading your suggestion!! Thank you.

Is there any Ph.d course after graduation of 4 years in elementary education?

I am looking for the right fellowship for an Ed.D. with a focus on training of teachers in developing countries. I am looking for the university already doing research in African countries. Can you give me any recommendations?

Most of these fellowships sound like assistantships that waive tuition and provide a stipend in exchange for work. NSF gives out fellowships that amount to more than $100,000 for 3 years of study, plus you can work an assistantship. Stanford is making three fellowships each year with a total value of $160,000 for business students. Compared to Fellowships in Science and Technology, Education majors get almost nothing. Education is just not a national priority and is certainly not on an equal footing with STEM fields.

Hi there. I’m looking for a fully-funded PhD degree in education in Australia or Canada. Is there any available? Your kind advice is highly appreciated.

Hi, my Directory available at the link above includes 2 fully funded programs in Canada.

Vicky, fully funded only in Public Health or Education too?! Thanks!

Good day. Any ideas about scholarship opportunity for Africans I to study in the UK apart form the Common wealth. I need a fully opportunity to carry out a PHD in a UK based uni in a Public health related topic that focuses on indigenous women reproductive health

i will appreciate a fully funded on-line course Ed.D in early years/early childhood education.

I have not been able to identify any fully funded online PhD programs in any subject.

Good day. I like to have a PhD fully funded scholarship in Educational Technology and I will appreciate this if I could be directed to the right University. Thank you.

Please see my comment above!

Greetings. I am an experienced minority teacher with strong science and computer technology background. I look forward to a fully funded PhD program in “Educational Technology for the future” research studies. I believe I possess all the tools and an exceptional will to pursue my research in this direction. Any assistance in this direction will be greatly appreciated.

Hi. I wanted to share that you do not need to enter a PhD program specifically in the subject of Educational Technology to do a PhD dissertation in this subject. You can do a dissertation in this subject in a general PhD in Education program. The key is to identify universities with professors who have done research in this subject who are availble serve as your advisor. You might also do a dissertation in this subject in Business PhD program.

Hi: Thank you very much for your response regarding my request. I am a believer of STEAM not just STEM, and an interdisciplinary approach to develop a comprehensive immersive educational programs. I look forward to some kind of an educational foundation or an agency to hear about my proposal to develop a pilot program to implement a “comprehensive immersive educational system” with a strong technology foundation where Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Arts (including Philosophy) to achieve the maximum learning experience of young minds.

Greetings. I appreciate your work here. I am interested in a fully funded PhD programme in Special Education. I shall be very appreciative of your anticipated kind gesture. Thanks

I wish to study fully funded PhD program in Special Education ( especially in the field of autism). Is there any university is conducting this program.

I’m from Asia And fully funded doctoral / PhD courses you know of?

Hi, Looking for a fully funded Ph.D.in education in the Philadelphia area. Are there any? Seems like most listed are out of my state. Thank you.

Try University of Pennsylvania.

I am a Chemical Engineer (BS – Chemical Engineering) with an MBA in Project Leadership & Management, I have applied to George Washington University’s Distance & Online Doctorate Program – Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng) in Engineering Management. I am looking for scholarships & fellowships to enable foot the tuition fees. I am based in Nigeria

My name is Katura Fennell and I am looking into any schools that will fully fund a doctoral program in the area of education. I am currently a teacher in Nashville TN and enrolled at Lipscomb University receiving my Ed.S in leadership, but really want to continue my education and help make a difference in the world of education. Any guidance or list of recent schools that will supply funding? I can be emailed at [email protected] with any information. Thanks in advance.

Hi Katura, the list of fully funded Phd programs in Education above is current as of May 1, 2017. We also sell the exclusive Directory of Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education, which is a detailed directory of 22 universities in the U.S. and Canada offering full funding to all incoming students. You can purchase the Directory here: https://www.fullyfundedcourse.com/free-directory . Best of luck!

Hello, Can I get some information on fully funded Ph.D program in IT and Computer science in US for an international student(Graduate in Information Assurance)? I can be emailed at [email protected] for extra information. Thank you.

Hi Nikhitha, please see our article Fully Funded PhD Programs in Computer Science: https://www.profellow.com/fellowships/fully-funded-phd-programs-in-computer-science/

Hi, thanks for the wonderful info. I’m interested in a few different areas for a PHD that I don’t see listed: Buddhism, Comparative Religions, Psychology, Mythology or Stories (lit, film, poetry, all forms). Given that these subject are not exactly the cats’ meow in terms of financial opportunities afterwords, the study is a labor of love and philanthropy. Could there possibly be a school for me somewhere? I would do a part-time online program with an international university if needed too – I’m in Southern California.

I’m a nurse educator in Singapore. Have been teaching in academic school and hospital for more than 10yrs. I have master of education from university of Sydney. How can I do a part time PhD in education which is fully funded? Please assist.

I have a JD, a few credits short of a LLM (in Comparative Law), and a MA (in African-American World Studies). I have been working as a lawyer for a non-profit Public Interest firm for 12 years, but I want to get a PhD. I have a small family now (3,8 year old girls), so I need a PhD program that is fully funded. I am interested in “Justice” so I can pursue a PhD in either Law, African American Studies, or Education. I have been out of the scholarly environment for so long, I really don’t know where to start. Any help would be appreciated.

Comments are closed.

Find and win paid, competitive fellowships

Be alerted about new fellowship calls for applications, get insider application tips, and learn about fully funded PhD and graduate programs

Fellowship Resources

• Calls for Applications
• Upcoming Fellowship Deadlines
• Fellowships Database
• Interviews with Fellows
• International Fellows Network
• Graduate Funding Directory

Fellowship Tips

• What is a Fellowship?
• Fully Funded Course
• Graduate School Funding
• Fellowship Application Tips
• Fulbright Application Tips
• Fellowship Application Guide
• Our Mission, History & Values
• ProFellow Winner Testimonials
• Fully Funded Course Testimonials
• Fellowship Industry Report
• Advertise With Us
• Terms & Privacy

ProFellow is the go-to source for information on professional and academic fellowships, created by fellows for aspiring fellows.

©2011-2024 ProFellow, LLC. All rights reserved.

• Enroll & Pay
• 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

Special Education

Undergraduate Learner Specialty Concentration/Pathway

Please visit the Purdue University 2024-2025 Catalog for additional program information

Total Credit Hours – 13

2.50/4.00 Overall GPA is required for the Teacher Education Program, with all Learner Specialty Concentration/Pathway course grades “C” or higher, no “I” (Incomplete).

The Special Education Learner Specialty Concentration/Pathway does not lead to licensure in Indiana or elsewhere.

For additional information regarding Teacher Education guidelines, please reference:

2024-2025 Teacher Education Program (TEP) Requirements and Milestones

*Embedded in Teacher Education Program major.

• Annual reports
• College offices
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Grand challenges
• Institutional Standing Committees
• Office of the President
• Tomorrow: Strategic Plan

Academic Programs

• College Catalog
• Colleges & Departments
• Experiential Learning
• Extended Learning
• Graduate Studies
• International Opportunities
• Penfield Library
• Research/Scholarship
• SUNY Oswego in Syracuse
• Contact Admissions
• Cost/Financial Aid
• Excelsior Scholarship
• International
• Non-traditional Students
• Undergraduate
• Virtual Campus Tour
• Visit SUNY Oswego
• Campus Dining
• Career Services
• Commitment to Safety
• First Year Programs
• Health & Wellness
• Clubs & Organizations/Laker Life
• Orientation
• Residence Life & Housing
• Student Services
• About Oswego Alumni Association
• Publications
• Athletics home
• Events calendar
• News stories
• Photo galleries
• Search news
• Brightspace
• Academic Calendar
• Current Students
• Dining Menu
• Faculty / Staff
• Majors List
• Search --> --> Search oswego.edu --> --> --> --> --> --> -->

Technology Education (All Grades) Online

Master of science in education.

Bring a deeper understanding of technology into schools to help students apply technological understanding and processes of the present and the future. Oswego’s technology education program helps students gain a strong foundation in teaching, both theory and practice.

Quick Facts

Rolling Admission Apply Anytime

You Can Start Fall, Spring or Summer

Delivery Option Online

Cost Per Credit Hour $565

Credit Hours 30

Estimated Completion Time 14 months full time, 2-4 years part-time

This program, designed for those who have or are eligible for initial certification in technology education, is online and synchronous. Meeting together provides an opportunity to collaborate with others throughout the state and our dedicated professors to dig deeper into technology education content and pedagogy. Tailor your education to what suits your interests by choosing one of three tracks to complete your education. Options include a research project, a thesis or directed coursework.

20240419_king_spring24stock_431.jpg

A Leader in Tech Education

You’ll study in one of the largest technology education departments in the country. SUNY Oswego has been a consistent leader in developing technology curriculum, and every year hosts one of the largest technology education conferences in the Northeast.

Successful completion of this program provides the necessary degree requirements to obtain your New York State professional teaching certification to teach technology from kindergarten to grade 12.

Career Opportunities

• Technology education teacher

What attracted me to Oswego was not only the history and quality of their education programs, but also the investments made into getting the latest equipment to learn and teach others on. 

Tyler Morris

Technology Education, MSEd

Program Resources

Information Sessions

Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!

SUNY Oswego adapts to local workforce needs by introducing a fully online master ’s program. Professor  Richard Bush shared insights on the virtual program.

Watch the Bridge Street segment>

SUNY Oswego offers a flexible and convenient master’s degree in technology education that is 100% online. Professor Karin Dykeman and student Akil Atiba shared more information about the program and outcomes.

AAQEP Accredited

This program has earned national accreditation by demonstrating excellence in the areas of content and pedagogy, clinical experiences, selectivity, program impact, and capacity for continuous improvement.

Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program

Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.

More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered

Assistantships  provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.

in total awards given every year to our graduate students

The Power of SUNY Tuition

Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.

Admission Requirements

A cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better is  recommended for  applicants to be competitive in the application process. 

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are optional for admission. For those students who have a GPA below a 3.0, it is highly recommended.

Possession of or eligibility for initial NYS teacher certification in technology education will be verified as part of the admission process.

In 500 words or less, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. This statement will help the review team better understand and evaluate your application.

Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.

Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities. (At least one of these recommendations must be from your school district.)

Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.

Request Information

Tuition and costs.

Graduate school can be affordable. See our in-state and out-of-state tuition and costs.

Visit Oswego

Experience what makes Oswego special in person. We have a variety of visiting options through the year.

Next Steps to Apply

Ready to get started? We’re here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Take the next step by creating an application account and save your progress at any time.

Scholarships

The American Indian College Fund provides scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native college students who are enrolled in certificate, undergraduate, or graduate programs at tribal colleges and universities, or nonprofit, accredited schools.

I am a…

High school student, student at a tribal college/university, student at a non-tribal college/university, hover to learn more.

The College Fund manages a wide portfolio of scholarship programs, and TCU students are eligible for all our opportunities. Applicants only need to submit one application every year to be considered. Award amounts vary but average between $2,000 to $3,000.

The American Indian College Fund offers merit-based scholarships for American Indian and Alaska Native high school students that plan to pursue higher education. Our application is available every year starting on February 1st in anticipation of the upcoming fall term. High school students should apply in the last semester of their senior year.

The American Indian College Fund has a close relationship with the 35 accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU) . Students attending TCUs are eligible for all the different merit-based scholarship programs we offer. Our application is available every year starting on February 1st in anticipation of the upcoming fall term. We encourage TCU students to complete their application by May 31st to receive priority review.

The American Indian College Fund offers merit-based scholarship opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native students attending accredited nonprofit colleges or universities in the U.S. Our application is available every year starting on February 1st in anticipation of the upcoming fall term. We encourage students attending these institutions to complete their application by May 31st to receive priority review.

Additional Scholarships

There are thousands of scholarship opportunities in addition to the scholarship programs we offer. We advise all students to apply to as many scholarships as they are eligible for. Discover more scholarship opportunities available outside of the American Indian College Fund.

48 Facts About Izhevsk

Written by Harriette Feeley

Modified & Updated: 25 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Izhevsk, the capital city of the Udmurt Republic in Russia, is a city steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. With a population of over 600,000, Izhevsk has grown from a small village to a bustling urban center known for its industrial prowess and natural beauty.

In this article, we will explore 48 fascinating facts about Izhevsk, delving into its past, present, and future. From its famous residents and landmarks to its thriving economy and traditions, Izhevsk is a city that has seamlessly blended tradition with modernity.

So, whether you’re planning a visit or simply want to learn more about this captivating city, join us on this journey as we uncover the diverse and intriguing aspects that make Izhevsk truly unique.

Key Takeaways:

• Izhevsk, the capital of Udmurt Republic, is famous for its industrial prowess, cultural heritage, and vibrant attractions, making it a must-visit city for history and culture enthusiasts.
• With its rich history, diverse culture, and iconic attractions like the Kalashnikov Museum and Udmurt State Puppet Theater, Izhevsk offers a fascinating blend of industrial heritage and artistic charm.

The capital of Udmurt Republic

Izhevsk serves as the capital city of the Udmurt Republic. It is a major administrative, industrial, and cultural hub in the region.

Named after Izhevsky Hrabar

Izhevsk derived its name from the founder of the city, Izhevsky Hrabar, who established a settlement on the Izh River in the 18th century.

Birthplace of Mikhail Kalashnikov

Izhevsk is famous for being the birthplace of Mikhail Kalashnikov, the renowned inventor of the AK-47 rifle. The city pays tribute to this iconic figure in various ways.

Dynamic industrial center

Izhevsk is a major industrial center, known for its production of firearms, motorcycles, and other metalworking products. The city’s manufacturing prowess contributes significantly to the region’s economy.

Home to iconic firearms factories

Izhevsk houses the legendary Izhevsk Machinebuilding Plant and Izhmash, which have been producing firearms for over a century. These factories have played a significant role in the city’s history and reputation.

A city of parks and greenery

Izhevsk prides itself on its abundance of parks and green spaces. With over 180 parks and public gardens, the city offers a refreshing escape into nature for its residents and visitors alike.

The hometown of the Udmurt people

Izhevsk is the cultural heart of the Udmurt people, an indigenous Finno-Ugric ethnic group. The city celebrates and preserves their traditions through various cultural events and institutions.

Education hub

Izhevsk boasts several prestigious educational institutions, including Izhevsk State Technical University and Udmurt State University. These universities attract students from all over Russia and abroad.

Olympic champions

Izhevsk has produced several Olympic champions in sports such as shooting, biathlon , and wrestling. The city takes pride in nurturing talented athletes and promoting sports culture.

The Izhevsk State Circus

The Izhevsk State Circus entertains audiences with captivating performances by talented acrobats , clowns, and animal trainers. It is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

The Kalashnikov Museum

The city is home to the Kalashnikov Museum, dedicated to showcasing the life and legacy of Mikhail Kalashnikov . Visitors can explore the history of firearms and learn about the inventor’s contributions.

The Izhevsk Philharmonic Society

The Izhevsk Philharmonic Society hosts a wide range of classical music concerts , ballets, and theater performances. It is a cultural hotspot that enriches the city’s artistic scene.

Renowned Izh-Bike

Izhevsk is famous for its Izh-Bike, a brand that produces high-quality motorcycles. These bikes are known for their durability and have a dedicated fan base among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Izhevsk State Circus School

The city houses the renowned Izhevsk State Circus School, which trains aspiring circus performers from a young age. Many graduates have gone on to achieve great success in the circus industry .

The Kama River

Izhevsk is situated on the banks of the Kama River, which is one of the longest rivers in Russia. The river offers opportunities for water sports and scenic river cruises.

Cultural diversity

Izhevsk is a melting pot of cultures, with various ethnic groups residing in the city. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, festivals, and customs.

Military heritage

Izhevsk has a strong military heritage, with its history closely tied to the development and production of firearms. The city played a crucial role in supplying weapons during times of war .

The Udmurtia State Puppet Theater

The Udmurtia State Puppet Theater in Izhevsk delights both children and adults with its enchanting puppet shows and performances. It is a popular destination for families.

The Izhevsk Art Museum

The Izhevsk Art Museum houses a diverse collection of artworks by local and international artists. It showcases various art styles and provides a platform for artistic expression.

Izhevsk Radio Plant

Izhevsk Radio Plant is a renowned manufacturer of electronic devices and equipment. It has contributed significantly to the city’s reputation in the field of electronics.

The Zavyalov Estate Museum

The Zavyalov Estate Museum offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy merchant family from the 19th century. Visitors can explore the elegant rooms and admire the exquisite interiors.

The Udmurt National Drama Theater

The Udmurt National Drama Theater presents captivating plays and performances, showcasing local talent and the Udmurt culture. It is a hub for theatrical arts in the city.

The Izhevsk Brewery

The Izhevsk Brewery is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts, offering a wide range of local brews. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the beer-making process.

The Udmurt Republican Museum

The Udmurt Republican Museum showcases the history, culture, and traditions of the Udmurt people. It preserves and promotes the unique heritage of the region.

Sportivnaya Square

Sportivnaya Square is a bustling public square in the heart of Izhevsk, surrounded by shops, cafes, and entertainment venues. It is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

The Udmurt Zoo

The Udmurt Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and provides an educational and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. It focuses on conservation and animal welfare.

Izhevsk Puppet Theater

Izhevsk Puppet Theater entertains audiences with its creative and engaging puppet shows, bringing classic fairy tales to life on stage. It is a must-visit for families with young children.

The State Historical-Architectural and Art Museum-Reserve

The State Historical-Architectural and Art Museum-Reserve in Izhevsk showcases the region’s history through its vast collection of artifacts, architectural landmarks, and art exhibits.

The Udmurt Ustinov State Puppet Theater

The Udmurt Ustinov State Puppet Theater provides captivating puppet shows that combine traditional and modern elements. It is renowned for its innovative approach to puppetry.

The Igrinsky State Nature Reserve

The Igrinsky State Nature Reserve, located near Izhevsk, protects the unique flora and fauna of the region. It offers nature trails and educational programs for nature enthusiasts.

Izhevsk State Technical University

Izhevsk State Technical University is a leading educational institution known for its excellence in engineering and technology education. It offers a wide range of programs and attracts students from all over Russia.

The Udmurtia State Symphony Orchestra

The Udmurtia State Symphony Orchestra mesmerizes audiences with its captivating orchestral performances. It showcases the exceptional musical talent of the region.

The Izhevsk State Circus School

The Izhevsk State Circus School provides comprehensive training in circus arts, grooming talented performers who excel in various circus disciplines. It is regarded as one of the best circus schools in Russia.

The Udmurt State University

The Udmurt State University offers a diverse range of academic programs and is recognized for its research contributions in various fields. It is a center for higher education in Izhevsk.

Izhevsk Aviation Plant

Izhevsk Aviation Plant is a major manufacturer of aircraft components and assemblies. It contributes to the aviation industry through its high-quality production.

The Shastinskiy Museum of Local Lore

The Shastinskiy Museum of Local Lore in Izhevsk explores the history, culture, and traditions of the region through its vast collection of artifacts and exhibitions.

The Moskovskaya Street Pedestrian Zone

The Moskovskaya Street Pedestrian Zone is a vibrant street in Izhevsk, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It is a popular spot for leisurely strolls and shopping.

The Udmurt State Drama Theater

The Udmurt State Drama Theater presents a diverse range of plays and performances, featuring talented actors and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The Izhevsk State Technical University Museum

The Izhevsk State Technical University Museum showcases the achievements and advancements in the field of engineering, highlighting the university’s contributions to scientific research and innovation.

The Musical Comedy Theater

The Musical Comedy Theater in Izhevsk delights audiences with its vibrant and entertaining musical performances, showcasing the impressive talent of the city’s performers.

The Izhevsk State Medical Academy

The Izhevsk State Medical Academy is a renowned institution for medical education, training healthcare professionals to serve the region and beyond.

The Votkinsk Military Historical Museum

The Votkinsk Military Historical Museum, located near Izhevsk, commemorates the military history of the region and pays tribute to the bravery of soldiers.

The Student’s Town

The Student’s Town is a vibrant area in Izhevsk, known for its lively atmosphere and numerous cafes, bars, and entertainment venues catering to the student population.

The Geology Museum of the Izhevsk State Technical University

The Geology Museum of the Izhevsk State Technical University showcases a diverse collection of geological specimens, providing insights into the Earth’s fascinating history.

The Udmurt State Puppet Theater

The Udmurt State Puppet Theater mesmerizes audiences with its enchanting puppet shows, bringing stories to life through captivating performances.

The Kalashnikov’s Shooting Complex

The Kalashnikov’s Shooting Complex is a popular attraction in Izhevsk, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of shooting firearms under supervision in a safe and controlled environment.

The Udmurt State Museum of Fine Arts

The Udmurt State Museum of Fine Arts houses an impressive collection of artworks by renowned Russian and international artists. It showcases various art movements and styles.

The Udgorie Ethnographic Park

The Udgorie Ethnographic Park offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, culture, and customs of the Udmurt people. Visitors can explore traditional wooden houses and partake in cultural activities.

In conclusion, Izhevsk is a fascinating city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions to explore. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Izhevsk offers something for everyone. From its famous firearms industry to its beautiful nature reserves, visitors will find plenty to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the local culture, Izhevsk has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to this hidden gem in the heart of Russia.

1. What is the population of Izhevsk?

The population of Izhevsk is approximately 629,455, making it the 19th largest city in Russia.

2. How can I get to Izhevsk?

Izhevsk can be reached by air, train, or bus. It has its own international airport, as well as regular train and bus connections from major cities in Russia.

3. What is Izhevsk famous for?

Izhevsk is famous for its firearms industry. It is home to the famous Kalashnikov Concern, which manufactures the world-renowned AK-47 assault rifle .

4. Are there any historical sites to visit in Izhevsk?

Yes, Izhevsk boasts several historical sites worth visiting, including the State Museum of Udmurt Republic, the Izhevsk State Technical University, and the Izhevsk Opera and Ballet Theater.

5. What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Izhevsk?

Izhevsk is surrounded by picturesque nature reserves, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and even skiing in the winter months.

6. Are there any traditional festivals in Izhevsk?

Yes, Izhevsk hosts various traditional festivals throughout the year, such as the Udmurt Kupala Night, celebrating the summer solstice , and the Udmurt National Day, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

7. Is Izhevsk a safe city?

Izhevsk is generally a safe city to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s always advisable to take common precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

8. What is the best time to visit Izhevsk?

The best time to visit Izhevsk is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Izhevsk, a city steeped in history and culture, offers visitors an unforgettable experience. From its vibrant parks to the iconic Kalashnikov Museum, there's no shortage of fascinating attractions to explore. Delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Russian cities like Orenburg, where you'll uncover even more captivating facts and stories. For those intrigued by the life and legacy of Mikhail Kalashnikov, our article on this legendary inventor provides astonishing insights into the man behind the world-famous assault rifle . Immerse yourself in the wonders of Izhevsk and beyond, as you embark on a journey of discovery through Russia's most remarkable destinations.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

Harvard’s Institute of Politics Announces Fall 2024 Resident Fellows

Introduction

CAMBRIDGE, MA - The Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School today announced the appointment of six Resident Fellows who will join the IOP for the Fall 2024 semester. The fellows bring diverse experience in politics, elected office, polling, journalism, and economic development to address the challenges facing our country and world today.

"We are thrilled to welcome this Fall's cohort of Resident Fellows to Harvard to engage and collaborate with our students and community, and to get their thoughts and insight in the final few months of this year's historic election. Their diverse experiences will no doubt inspire our students to consider careers in public service and prepare them to provide essential political leadership in the months and years ahead," said IOP Director Setti Warren .

"We are excited to have such a remarkable group of Fellows at the IOP this Fall. They bring varied perspectives on how to best approach some of our country's most consequential challenges, and I am confident our students will gain important insight into the fields of politics, civic engagement, journalism, and more," said Michael Nutter , Chair of the Institute of Politics' Senior Advisory Committee, and former Mayor of Philadelphia.

"We are thrilled to welcome the incredibly accomplished members of the 2024 Fall Fellows Cohort as we begin the fall semester prior to the incredibly important U.S. election. As we close out the 'biggest election year in history,' our world remains in the throes of a major period of democratic backsliding. American voters, including many Harvard students, will once again face the possibility of reactionary backsliding and threats to fundamental rights. Closer to home, we are keenly aware of the threats to free speech on campus. While this semester will bring renewed challenges to and debates concerning those fundamental rights, we are hopeful that study groups will remain a source of vibrant, productive, and gratifying discussions on Harvard's campus. In that spirit, this semester's cohort of Fellows will bring in critical perspectives from the varied worlds of governing, policymaking, polling, reporting, and campaigning to equip students with the tools necessary to create a better tomorrow. We are confident that this cohort of Fellows will help this program to remain a bastion of freedom of speech and civil discourse on Harvard's campus," said Éamon ÓCearúil ‘25 and Summer Tan ‘26 , Co-Chairs of the Fellows and Study Groups Program at the Institute of Politics.

IOP Resident Fellows are fully engaged with the Harvard community. They reside on campus, mentor a cohort of undergraduate students, hold weekly office hours, and lead an eight-week, not-for-credit study group based on their experience and expertise.

Fall 2024 Resident Fellows:

• Betsy Ankney: Former Campaign Manager, Nikki Haley for President
• John Anzalone: One of the nation's top pollsters and strategists, and founder of Impact Research, a public opinion research and consulting firm
• Alejandra Y. Castillo: Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development
• Asa Hutchinson: Former Governor of Arkansas and 2024 Presidential Candidate
• Brett Rosenberg: Former Director for Strategic Planning, National Security Council and Deputy Special Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, Department of State
• Eugene Scott: Host at Axios Live, and former reporter who has spent two decades covering politics at the local, national and international level, including at the Washington Post and CNN

Brief bios and quotes can be found below. Headshots are available upon request.

Betsy Ankney Ankney is a political strategist with over 15 years of experience on tough campaigns. She has been involved in campaigns and Super PACs at the national and state level and played a role in some of the biggest upsets in Republican politics. She has been an advisor to Ambassador Nikki Haley since 2021, serving as Executive Director for Stand for America PAC and most recently as Campaign Manager for Nikki Haley for President. After starting with zero dollars in the bank and 2% in the polls, the campaign defied the odds, raised $80 million, and Nikki Haley emerged as the strongest challenger to Donald Trump. Ankney served as the Political Director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee for the 2020 cycle. She advised senate campaigns across the country, working directly with candidates and their campaigns on budgets, messaging, and fundraising. Prior to her work at the NRSC, Ankney managed multiple statewide campaigns, including Bruce Rauner for Governor in Illinois and Ron Johnson for Senate in Wisconsin. For her work on Ron Johnson’s race, she was named “Campaign Manager of the Year” by the American Association of Political Consultants for 2016. Ankney got her start in politics at the 2008 Republican National Convention and served in various roles at the Republican National Committee as well as on multiple campaigns and outside efforts. She serves on the boards of The Campaign School at Yale and The American Association of Political Consultants. She is from Toledo, Ohio and attended Vanderbilt University.

"I am honored to be a part of the fantastic program at the Harvard Institute of Politics. As we enter the final stretch of one of the wildest and most unpredictable election cycles in modern history, I look forward to having conversations in real time about our political process, what to look for, and why it matters." – Betsy Ankney

John Anzalone Anzalone is one of the nation’s top pollsters and messaging strategists. He has spent decades working on some of the toughest political campaigns in modern history and helping private-sector clients navigate complex challenges. He has polled for the past four presidential races, most recently serving as chief pollster for President Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign. In that role, he helped develop the messaging and strategy that drove paid communications, major policy rollouts, speeches, and convention thematics. He has also polled for the campaigns of President Obama and Hillary Clinton, and has helped elect U.S. senators, governors, and dozens of members of Congress. Anzalone works with governors across the country, including current Governors Gretchen Whitmer (MI) and Roy Cooper (NC). He polls regularly for the Democratic National Committee, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Senate Majority PAC, and AARP. With more than 30 years of experience in message development and strategic execution, he has been called on by key decision-makers, executives, and CEOs to provide counsel in a changing world and marketplace. He has extensive experience using research and data to break down complex subjects into digestible messages that resonate with target audiences. He grew up in St. Joseph, Michigan, and graduated from Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is married and has four children, two dogs, and lives in Watercolor, Florida.

"After a 40-year career in politics I am so excited to give back by sharing and mentoring politically active and curious students, but also to have an opportunity to learn from them myself. During the next three months we will be living the 2024 elections together in real time. There is nothing more exciting than that regardless of your political identity." – John Anzalone

Alejandra Y. Castillo The Honorable Alejandra Y. Castillo was nominated by President Biden and sworn in as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development on August 13, 2021, becoming the first women of color to hold this position. Ms. Castillo led the Economic Development Administration (EDA) between August 2021-2024 through an unprecedented moment of growth and opportunity. As the only federal agency focused exclusively on economic development, she guided EDA’s the implementation of over $6.8 billion dollars in federal funding, powering EDA and its mission to make transformational placed-based investments to support inclusive and equitable economic growth across America. Spanning over two decades of public service and non-profit work, she has served in three Presidential administrations --Biden, Obama and Clinton. Her career has also included a drive to shattering glass ceilings and providing inspiration to multiple generations of diverse leaders. Castillo is an active member in various civic and professional organizations, including the Hispanic National Bar Association, the American Constitution Society, as well as the Council on Foreign Relations. Castillo holds a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the State University of New York at Stony Brook; a M.A. in Public Policy from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin; and a J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law. A native of Queens, NY., the daughter of immigrants from the Dominican Republic.

"I am excited to join this Fall semester IOP Fellowship class and have the opportunity to engage with students and faculty members across the University. The IOP fellowship presents a great forum to discuss and evaluate the future of U.S. industrial strategy and economic growth in light of the historic federal investments in place-based economic development during the last three years. I am honored to join my colleagues in making this an exciting and informative semester for students." – Alejandra Y. Castillo

Asa Hutchinson Governor Asa Hutchinson is a former Republican candidate for President of the United States. He served as the 46th Governor of the State of Arkansas and in his last election, he was re-elected with 65 percent of the vote, having received more votes than any other Republican candidate for governor in the State’s history. As a candidate for President, Hutchinson distinguished himself as an advocate for balancing the federal budget, energy production and enhanced border security. He also was a clear voice for the GOP to move away from the leadership of Donald Trump. Hutchinson’s time as governor is distinguished by his success in securing over $700 million per year in tax cuts, safeguarding the retirement pay of veterans from state income tax, shrinking the size of state government, creating over 100,000 new jobs and leading a national initiative to increase computer science education. The Governor’s career in public service began when President Ronald Reagan appointed him as the youngest U.S. Attorney in the nation for the Western District of Arkansas. In 1996, he won the first of three consecutive terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. During his third term in Congress, President George W. Bush appointed Governor Hutchinson to serve as Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration and later as the nation’s first Undersecretary of Homeland Security for Border Protection. He is a former Chairman of the National Governors. He grew up on a small farm near Gravette. He and his wife, Susan, have four children and seven grandchildren. Governor Hutchinson is currently CEO of Hutchinson Group LLC, a security consulting firm.

"After 8 years as Governor it is time to teach and mentor. I am honored to have the opportunity this fall to share my experiences and perspective but to also learn from the students and my colleagues who will also be resident fellows at the IOP. The timing is historic with our democracy facing a critical choice this fall as to the direction of our country." – Asa Hutchinson

Brett Rosenberg Rosenberg is a foreign policy expert who has served in the White House, Department of State, and Senate. During the Biden Administration, Rosenberg was the inaugural Deputy Special Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, President Biden’s and the G7’s flagship program designed to meet infrastructure needs in low- and middle-income countries. At the White House, Rosenberg served on the National Security Council as Director for Strategic Planning, working on shaping and realizing approaches to issues spanning from international economics to Western Hemisphere engagement, as well as helping to write the National Security Strategy. Prior to her service in the Biden administration, Rosenberg was Associate Director of Policy for National Security Action, where she remains a senior advisor. Rosenberg began her career in Washington as a legislative aide to then-Senator Kamala Harris, where she advised the senator on a range of domestic and economic policy issues. Rosenberg is a Nonresident Scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and her writing has appeared in outlets including Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, The New Republic, and McSweeneys. She received her A.B. in History from Harvard College and her PhD (DPhil) in International Relations from the University of Oxford, where she was a Rhodes Scholar.

"What a privilege it is to be part of this incredible community in this incredible moment. I can't wait to learn from the students, faculty, and other fellows as we dive in together to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the United States and the world." – Brett Rosenberg

Eugene Scott Eugene Scott is a host at Axios Live, where he travels the country interviewing political and policy leaders. He was previously a senior political reporter for Axios covering 2024 swing voters and voting rights. An award-winning journalist, Scott has spent two decades covering politics at the local, national and international levels. He was recently a national political reporter at The Washington Post focused on identity politics and the 2022 midterm election. Following the 2020 presidential election, he hosted “The Next Four Years,” then Amazon’s top original podcast. He also contributed to “FOUR HUNDRED SOULS: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019,” which topped the New York Times’ bestseller list. In addition to writing, Scott has regularly provided political analysis on MSNBC, CBS and NPR. Scott was a Washington Correspondent for CNN Politics during the 2016 election. And he began his newspaper career at the Cape Argus in Cape Town, South Africa not long after beginning his journalism career with BET News’ “Teen Summit.” Scott received his master’s degree from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and his bachelor’s from the University of North Carolina Hussman School of Journalism and Media. He is a D.C. native and continues to live in the Nation’s Capital.

"Learning from and with the professionals that visited the IOP during my time on campus was one of the highlights of my time at the Kennedy School. I am eager to help lead students in understanding the press and this country as we navigate the final weeks of arguably the most consequential election of our time." – Eugene Scott

Additional information can be found here .

About the Institute of Politics Fellows Program The Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School was established in 1966 as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. The Institute’s mission is to unite and engage students, particularly undergraduates, with academics, politicians, activists, and policymakers on a non-partisan basis to inspire them to pursue pathways in politics and public service. The Institute blends the academic with practical politics and offers students the opportunity to engage in current events and to acquire skills and perspectives that will assist in their postgraduate pathways.

The Fellows Program has stood as the cornerstone of the IOP, encouraging student interest in public service and increasing the interaction between the academic and political communities. Through the Fellows Program, the Institute aims to provide students with the opportunity to learn from experienced public servants, the space to engage in civil discourse, and the chance to acquire a more holistic and pragmatic view of our political world.

For more information on the fellowship program, including a full list of former fellows, visit: iop.harvard.edu  

Press Releases

• Yekaterinburg
• Novosibirsk
• Vladivostok

• Tours to Russia
• Practicalities
• Russia in Lists

Rusmania • Deep into Russia

• Republic of Udmurtia

Izhevsk is the capital of the Republic of Udmurtia and located almost midway between Kazan and Perm . The city began its history as the location of an ironworks founded in 1760 and today remains an industrial city. The most famous item to be produced here is the Kalashnikov AK-47 automatic rifle and its creator, Mikhail Kalashnikov, spent most of his life in the city. 

Top recommendations in Izhevsk

Udmurt Culture

Learn about the culture and traditions of the Udmurt people, as well as about the history and nature of Izhevsk and Udmurtia at the Kuzebai Gerd National Museum and the Museum of Applied Art. In additional, just outside the city is Ludorvai Archeological and Ethnographical Museum Reserve.

Industrial Heritage

See examples of the weapons and motorbikes produced by the Izhmash Factory at the Museum of the History of Izhmash and find out more about the Kalashnikov and its creator at the Kalashnikov Museum-Exhibition Centre.

Go and see the spectacular St Michael’s Cathedral – the most famous landmark in the city. The city has two other cathedrals which are also worth seeing: St Aleksandr Nevsky’s Eparchial Cathedral and the Trinity Cathedral.

Out of the City

Take the opportunity to see more of the republic. Two nearby options which can be easily visited from Izhevsk by bus are Votkinsk and Sarapul. Votkinsk is the birthplace of composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Sarapul is a quaint city on the River Kama with many historical buildings.

Plan your next trip to Russia

Ready-to-book tours.

Your holiday in Russia starts here. Choose and book your tour to Russia.

REQUEST A CUSTOMISED TRIP

Looking for something unique? Create the trip of your dreams with the help of our experts.