Special Education Specialization (Education Ph.D.)
About
The Special Education specialization within our Education Ph.D. degree program is designed to prepare students for leadership positions in both K-12 schools and higher education institutions, where they can contribute to special education teacher preparation and address a nationwide shortage of special educators. Our doctoral students gain knowledge and skills in research and evidence-based practices for supporting all students with inclusive learning opportunities. The program offers academic rigor with the flexibility to pursue a program of study specifically catered to your interests and goals. Our faculty have extensive experience with teaching and research in areas such as low-incidence disabilities (Autism Spectrum Disorder and intellectual disabilities), high-incidence disabilities (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, emotional disorders and ADHD), multi-tiered frameworks (Response to Intervention and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) and multilingual learners in special education. Throughout their doctoral program, students have opportunities to put research into practice, working with one of our many partner organizations both on- and off-campus that serve individuals with disabilities.
Program Highlights
Requirements
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Program Delivery
All of our Ph.D. specializations require a minimum of 57 graduate credits beyond a master’s degree. Students will develop an initial program of study with a faculty advisor. Before enrolling in their fifth course, students must form a program committee consisting of three or more faculty members to finalize their program of study. The curriculum includes of a minimum of 15 required foundation course credits, 15 required research core credits, 12 required program core credits and three elective credits combined with comprehensive exams, a research practicum and a dissertation:
As the state’s largest teacher preparation and training institution, the UMaine College of Education and Human Development has relationships with schools across the state that doctoral students in the Special Education specialization can collaborate with on research and acquire practical skills related to their program of study. The program provides opportunities for students who wish to become higher education faculty to teach courses in special education to undergraduates. In addition, our special education faculty lead or have relationships with several organizations both on- and off-campus that our students can work with while earning their degree. These include:
Advising & SUpport
The College of Education and Human Development provides students with academic guidance and personal support before they set foot on campus through graduation and beyond. Our graduate students work with faculty advisors, who build genuine relationships and provide timely information to help you navigate your program, your work in schools and communities, and whatever else is on your plate.
Program Learning Outcomes
Our curriculum is designed to help graduates attain the professional knowledge and competencies outlined by the Council for Exceptional Children’s Advanced Preparation Standards. The standards describe the necessary skills and expertise for practicing special education teachers. The Council for Exceptional Children is the premiere professional organization for special education.
Careers
Multiple states and the federal government have identified an urgent need to develop and train more special education teachers and related personnel. A shortage of special education faculty in higher education contributes to shortages and limits the capacity of colleges and universities to address the problem. Our Ph.D. graduates are prepared to meet the needs of children and communities as district special education directors, curriculum coordinators, school-based administrators and in positions at state education departments. The program also prepares graduates for faculty positions at higher education institutions, working with the next generation of teachers and producing transformative research.
At a Glance
College of Education & Human Development
Degree Level
Doctoral
Degree Earned
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Mode of Study
Online
time to Complete Degree
57 Credits
Featured Courses
XXX 101
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XXX 101
A really, really, really Long course title goes here
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XXX 101
Research Learning Experience
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Scholarships
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Next Steps
Contact
International
Chadbourne Hall, Room 122
go.umaine.edu/international-undergraduate-admissions/
P
207.581.3437
F
207.581.2920
