Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
3-5 years
Credit Hours:
63
Become a leader in the field of special education.
The doctoral program in Special Education provides future leaders with specialized expertise needed to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of children and adolescents with autism and/or developmental, behavioral, or learning disabilities, including dyscalculia and dyslexia. Successful graduates will be fully prepared to assume leadership roles in research, education and training, impacting the lives of children and their families in both public and private education settings.
College of Education
Department of Educational Psychology
940-565-3486
devyn.dougherty@unt.edu
CoursesTuition & AidHow to apply

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Why Earn a Special Education Ph.D.?

This doctoral program is intended for individuals who have already completed a master's degree in Special Education or a closely related field. Candidates with master's degrees in other fields will be considered and required to take up to five additional courses in Special Education.

The Ph.D. program in Special Education provides scholars with a strong foundation in the science of learning, learning differences among students with disabilities, ecological assessment of learning and behavior, current sciences on evidence-based practices and professional development, public policy for students with disabilities, and educational research methods. Moreover, scholars have the opportunity to acquire specialized expertise in their areas of autism and/or students with developmental, behavioral or learning disabilities. In addition to coursework, students engage in professional activities such as grant writing, presenting at conferences, postsecondary teaching and submitting manuscripts for publication.
Marketable Skills
  • Synthesize empirical literature for research trends
  • Critically evaluate existing research
  • Design/conduct methodologically rigorous research
  • Evaluate special education programs/personnel
  • Apply knowledge for educational/social policy-making

Special Education Ph.D. Highlights

UNT's College of Education is one of Texas' top producers of teachers, administrators, counselors and other school professionals.
The rigorous curriculum allows you to participate in formal coursework, independent study, internships, practicums and dissertation research.
As you progress through the program, you can enroll in specialized coursework focusing on autism intervention, emotional/behavioral disorders or mild/moderate disabilities.
You will receive rigorous training in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
The College of Education is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, which means we meet or exceed strict academic standards for excellence in education.
You'll have unique opportunities to become involved in community-based programming, network with professionals in special education and other disciplines, and participate in interdepartmental studies.

What can you do with a Special Education Ph.D.?

Graduates of the Ph.D. program may pursue careers in higher education focused on teaching and/or research. They may also assume leadership roles in public and private school systems, contributing to the development and implementation of effective, evidence-based programs for students with diverse needs.

Special Education Ph.D. Courses You Could Take

Advanced Studies in Evidence Based Practices in High and Low Incidence Disabilities
Examination of research to support evidence-based practices. Students read and critically analyze studies that form the evidence base for practices used with students with high and low incidence disabilities. Methods for designing effective instruction/interventions, principles that apply for defining current level of functioning, and monitoring learner progress are emphasized. The key outcome of this course is for future leaders in the field of special education to understand how to determine and evaluate what is evidence-based practice, and use this information in the provision of supports and services to children with disabilities and their families.
Advanced Studies in Autism Programming
Designed to review existing interventions for instructing students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to determine if they meet the criteria for evidence-based practice (EBP). Procedures for determining EBP in autism spectrum disorders are discussed in relation to various interventions for addressing the core deficit areas of ASD. Maximum focus is on critically evaluating the research literature to identify EBP and their application in public school classrooms (i.e., bridging the research-to-practice gap).
Single-Subject Research Methodology
Addresses single-subject research designs, procedures for documenting experimental control, measurement of the fidelity of intervention and evaluation of effective size. Includes the language and terminology of single-subject (observational) research methods, key issues related to designing effective experimental interventions, and developing a high-quality research proposal utilizing single-subject research methodologies in applied settings.
Intervention Research in Special Populations
Advanced study and analysis of current research and practices in literacy instruction and intervention for children identified as having special instructional needs. Emphasis is on the articulation between research findings and literacy curriculum and practices in schools.
Analysis of Trends, Issues & Research in Special Education
Investigation and analysis of recent trends, issues and research in special education. Emphasis on how these will affect special education programs. Special attention to competency-based programs, accountability and individualized programming.
Seminar in Professional Leadership in Special Education
Designed to assist students in understanding leadership and professional development issues facing special education doctoral candidates. Topics to be explored include models of professionalism, civic and professional responsibilities, and ethical practices associated with special education and other disability-related fields. Also focuses on the responsibilities of special education professionals in higher education, district and state level administration, and community and non-profit organizations.

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