![A diverse group of children at school telling stories in class to the teacher.](https://umaine.edu/edhd/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2023/11/Multilingual-Special-Education.jpg)
Special Education Ph.D.
The Ph.D. in Special Education concentration is designed to prepare educators 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. Working within our larger Ph.D. in Education academic degree, doctoral students in the Special Education concentration gain knowledge and skills in research and evidence-based practices for supporting all students with inclusive learning opportunities. Our 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.