online phd special education texas

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Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D.

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Why Earn a Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D.?

In addition to the required course work, all doctoral students will have opportunities to accomplish a number of professional competencies including submitting a grant application, submitting a manuscript for publication consideration, course instruction, and presenting at professional conventions.

The requirements are designed to increase the capacity of graduates to provide effective leadership in the area of autism programming and policy development and to conduct valid, empirical intervention-based research that will bridge existing research-to-practice gaps and improve outcomes for students with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

A master's degree in Special Education or a closely related field is required for application to the doctoral program. Candidates with master's degrees in other fields will be required to take up to five additional courses in Special Education, with advisor's approval.

• 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

Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D. Highlights

What can you do with a developmental disabilities and autism special education ph.d..

This program prepares graduates to:

• Become involved in community-based programming
• Network with professionals in special education and other disciplines
• Participate in interdepartmental studies
• Assess and evaluate students with special needs
• Analyze the implications of school reform/refine the delivery of services to students with special needs
• Fill leadership personnel needs in special education
• Offer prevention and evidence-based interventions for at-risk populations and individuals with disabilities
• Provide services for culturally and linguistically diverse children with special needs in urban and rural areas

Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D. Courses You Could Take

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The Top 19 Online PhD in Special Education Degree Programs

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

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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.

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Step into a leadership role within the field of special education. Engage in the theory, research and best practices that will help you become an expert practitioner, ready to step into school leadership, educational consultant or advocate roles. Hone your passion for supporting individuals with special needs by studying ways to improve academic, social and transition outcomes for your students. Through a tailored approach to the dissertation process, you can complete the program in as little as three years. 

Note: This degree is not designed for licensure. 

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25 Best Online Doctorate in Special Education [2024 Guide]

Special education is a passion for many people, but if you want to distinguish yourself with the highest educational qualification of the field, then an online doctorate in special education may be the path for you.

Earning a doctoral degree is no easy feat, as it consists of several years of intensive coursework and either a dissertation or capstone project. While it does require great commitment and determination, many people find that the hard work is well worth it.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Let’s explore what it’s like to earn a doctoral degree online as well as how an EdD or PhD in Special Education can help you achieve your goals post-graduation.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Special Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Ball State University

Ball State University offers a Doctorate in Education along with a Special Education concentration. There’s a general special education track as well as tracks in applied behavioral analysis and autism, high incidence and low incidence teaching and training, and emotional and behavioral disorders. The program is approximately 90% online.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Capella University

The PhD in Education program at Capella University features a concentration in Special Education Leadership.

It includes 4 core courses and 10 specialization courses as well as a dissertation, 2 internships, and 3 residencies. Students learn about special education curriculum, instruction, community and family collaboration, financial resources, and laws and regulations.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. City University of Seattle

Students enrolled in City University of Seattle’s Doctor of Education in Leadership program can select concentrations from organizational leadership, higher education leadership, or specialized study.

The specialized study option opens many additional avenues of study tailored to fit students’ individual needs. The school also offers an endorsement in special education.

CityU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

4. Drexel University

Drexel University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management program features ten concentrations, including one in Special Education Leadership.

Its goal is to provide students with the skills, resources, and knowledge necessary to become special education program directors. Most students usually finish the program in 3 to 5 years.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

5. Duquesne University

Students enrolled in Duquesne University’s PhD in Special Education program should learn a lot about social justice, early intervention, assessment, and curriculum design. It’s an 80 credit program that allows both full-time and part-time students to enroll. The program features further specializations in assessment and learning and autism and behavior.

Duquesne University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program offers students a concentration in Special Education.

It’s a qualitative program that focuses primarily on research. The curriculum includes courses such as foundations of research design, qualitative data analysis, results and findings, designing a qualitative study, and special education law.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University offers a quick and flexible way to earn a doctoral degree with its 54 credit, online, accelerated Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership program.

Students can choose from four concentrations, including one in Leadership in Special Education. Focus is placed on educational research, teaching, curriculum development, and education policy.

Gwynedd Mercy University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

8. Liberty University

Liberty University’s Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program includes a Special Education concentration for students hoping to become special education instructors or program directors, gifted student instructors, or school administrators.

The curriculum focuses on organization and design of gifted education programs, educational assessment, classroom management, and learning theory.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. National University

National University offers a PhD in Education with a Special Education specialization. The program is designed for special education professionals who work in a variety of settings and want to make significant scholarly contributions to the field.

The curriculum involves research and advanced study of topics such as educational equity, inclusion, educational leadership, and methods for monitoring student progress.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

10. Nova Southeastern University

The Doctor of Education in Special Education program at Nova Southeastern University is specifically designed for current education professionals hoping to move into special education leadership positions.

The curriculum is diverse and comprehensive, and students can choose between giving traditional dissertations or completing strategic research projects to earn their degrees.

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

11. Portland State University

Portland State University offers its educational leadership doctorate program 100% on-campus, 100% online, and in hybrid format. It features multiple specializations from which students can choose. One of these is the special education concentration. It’s main focus is on the leadership of agencies, schools, and communities serving people with disabilities.

Portland State University  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

12. Regent University

Regent University’s Doctor of Education program is a Christian-oriented program designed to train 21st century leaders for every aspect of education.

There are numerous concentrations available, but students hoping to become special education leaders and directors can select the Special Education concentration to learn about special education policy, practice, and research.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Slippery Rock University

The Doctor in Special Education program at Slippery Rock University is for current educators and human service workers who want to transition into special education leadership positions. The degree requires 60 total credits for completion, but students can transfer up to 12 previously earned credits into the program.

Slippery Rock University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

14. St John’s University

Although St. John’s University doesn’t offer a doctoral degree in special education, it does offer a PhD in Literacy with an optional TESOL and Bilingual Education concentration. This degree can lend itself nicely to careers in special education because of its foundations of literacy and special topics in literacy courses.

St. John’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

15. Texas Tech University

Students in Texas Tech University’s PhD in Special Education program should be prepared for careers as consultants, specialists, teachers, and researchers. The curriculum adheres to the code of ethics put in place by the Council for Exceptional Children and requires 90 credits for completion. Currently, GRE scores are being waived.

Texas Tech University  is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers an online Doctor of Education in Special Education with specialized tracks in Leadership, Autism, Collaborative, and Gifted. New sessions begin every fall. The program requires 72 credits, including both coursework and a dissertation. Courses may be synchronous or asynchronous.

The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. University of Colorado – Denver

University of Colorado – Denver’s Doctor of Education in Leadership for Educational Equity program is a special education doctoral degree focused specifically on early childhood learners.

Graduates should understand the issues surrounding inclusive early childhood education, advocate for children with disabilities and diverse abilities, and become effective leaders in the field.

The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

18. University of Florida

The Doctor of Education in Special Education program at the University of Florida seeks to educate participants in all matters of special education. Students learn to advocate for individuals with disabilities, serve as school leaders and service providers for these individuals, and communicate and work collaboratively with the individuals’ families.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. University of North Dakota

University of North Dakota’s Doctorate in Education in Educational Practice and Leadership is a 100% online program designed for working educational professionals. The degree takes about 3 years to complete, and there’s a Special Education concentration. Most of the courses in this concentration focus on the field of educational diagnostics.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

20. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a PhD in Special Education that’s flexible and allows students to customize their courses based on their interests and skills.

The program puts a strong focus on evidence-based practice, research methodology, pedagogy, public policy, collaboration, and educational theory. The school doesn’t charge out-of-state tuition.

The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

21. University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh offers both a Doctor of Education in Special Education and a PhD in Special Education. The PhD program focuses more on the actual education of students and covers topics like early intervention and education of students with mental and physical disabilities. The EdD in Special Education program is more research-based.

The  University of Pittsburgh  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

22. University of Southern Mississippi

The PhD in Education with a concentration in Special Education program at the University of Southern Mississippi requires 66 credits for completion and meets Mississippi state standards for advanced licensure. There are several qualitative research and quantitative analysis courses in the curriculum as well as courses specific to special education.

The  University of Southern Mississippi  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. University of Toledo

University of Toledo’s Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction program features a Special Education concentration that focuses on turning educators into special education leaders and directors. It’s a rigorous, 60 credit program that usually takes between 4 and 5 years to finish. Students will participate in several virtual internships as well.

The  University of Toledo  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

24. University of West Georgia

University of West Georgia’s Doctor of Education in School Improvement program features nine different concentrations as part of its program.

Students who choose the Special Education concentration will take courses in autism instruction and collaboration, autism characteristics and theory, administrating special education programs, special education law, and program planning and evaluation.

UWG  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

25. Walden University

Walden University’s Doctor of Education in Special Education program requires 79 quarter credits, one face-to-face residency, and a doctoral writing assessment to complete.

Graduates are expected to be able to evaluate the ethical and legal merits of policies surrounding special education, implement assessments and interventions, and evaluate special education programs.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Special Education Online Doctoral Programs

Achieving a doctoral degree should make you an expert in the field of special education. This could lead to a variety of career paths, including administrative roles in school systems or higher education, research roles for private organizations, and leadership roles for human services agencies.

In a special education doctoral degree program, you will take advanced courses on disabilities and how they affect a student’s education as well as courses on educating gifted students.

Research is also a major focus for a doctoral program. You will likely take statistics and qualitative research courses, which will help prepare you for your dissertation or capstone project of your program.

Research courses will also give you the tools you’ll need to contribute new ideas and information to the body of special education research. These tools will also assist you in staying current in the field throughout your career.

Because there are many laws that impact education, you can also expect to take courses on educational law. This will help you be well-versed on the various methods that comply with the laws of today and of the future.

Special Education Careers & Salaries

A doctoral degree in special education online can lead to many worthwhile careers, including leadership, teaching, or research roles in school systems, higher education, or other organizations.

With this online education degree you could train the next generation of teachers in an education program at a college or university. You could also become an administrator in higher education, potentially leading and directing student success and accessibility departments.

If working in K-12 schools is your goal, then a doctoral degree along with teaching experience would leave you qualified to be a school principal, curriculum designer, or special education department supervisor.

Once you have leadership experience in K-12 education, then you may qualify you to become a school superintendent, a role with great responsibility and high earning potential.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , there are many occupations in the educational field for which someone with a doctoral degree would be qualified.

While some of the occupations listed here may only require a bachelors or masters degree in special education , a doctoral degree in special education would prepare you for many career paths as an educator, leader, or researcher of special education.

Some of the most common careers for someone holding this degree include school principal, school instructional coordinator, and college or university administrator or professor. You could also work as a leader in an allied human services organization.

There are many occupations that highly value any doctoral degree such as an online doctoral degree in higher education , especially in K-12 and postsecondary administration, so your career path would be uniquely your own.

Choosing an Online Doctorate in Special Education

There are many factors to take into account when choosing a degree program, including cost, time to completion, student to faculty ratio, accreditation, and university reputation.

Here are some special considerations for choosing your online doctorate program in special education:

• Admission requirements : Some doctoral programs are designed for students with only a bachelor’s degree while others require applicants to already hold a master’s degree. Some programs also expect students to have work experience in the education field.
• Length and design : Many online programs are designed for those working full-time, allowing part-time coursework and flexibility in how long it takes to complete the degree. Other online programs are tailored to full-time students who want to complete the program as quickly as possible.
• On-campus requirements : There are 100% online EdD and PhD in Special Education programs, but some universities offer all of the coursework online and still require a few visits to the university campus for dissertation proceedings, when applicable, or intensive seminars.

Every program is different, so it’s important to find the right program that will meet your specific needs, especially since a doctoral program is a great investment of your time and money.

Doctoral Curriculum & Courses

There are many fascinating courses that you will take in an EdD or PhD in Special Education program that will cover laws, disabilities, education, and research. Here are some courses typical of a doctoral degree program in special education.

• Education of Exceptional Children : This course focuses on the needs and psychology surrounding the education of gifted students.
• Law of Exceptionalities : This course typically looks at current laws impacting education in addition to the tools educators will need to understand, interpret, and comply with new laws.
• Law and Higher Education Issues for Students with Autism : This course looks into the legal requirements, in particular the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), affecting colleges and universities’ education of students with disabilities and autism and the effective higher education policies on educational support, accommodations, and inclusivity.
• Special Education Policies and Issues : This course will cover social factors affecting people with disabilities, legal requirements of special education, and incorporating community resources.
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorders : An advanced course on the disorders affecting students’ emotions and behavior will look at proven teaching methods, treatment strategies, causes of the disorders, and types of disorders.
• Applied Behavior Analysis : A course on behavioral analysis will typically cover how to conduct an initial assessment of student behavior, determine the most appropriate interventional strategy, assess whether the intervention had a positive effect, and ensure that the positive effects remain in place.
• Introduction of Qualitative Research : Research methods are a major focus in doctoral programs, and a course offering guidance on the many types of qualitative (non-numerical) research will be valuable for educational leaders.
• Research in Special Education : Focusing on methods to conduct effective secondary and tertiary research (rather than primary research), this course will help students hone their skills in finding and analyzing existing data and research.
• Advanced Research Methods : This course will take a deep dive into all research methods and the ways to design studies.
• Grant Writing : A course on grant writing for educators will cover finding grant opportunities, methods for developing grant proposals, and assessing grant outcomes.

Doctoral-level special education courses are incredibly valuable because they teach practical skills, offer knowledge essential for educational leaders, and prepare educators to adapt to new laws and develop better teaching practices.

Admissions Requirements

Most universities have fairly standard admissions applications.

Here are a few components of an application that you should expect to be requested:

• Statement of Goals : Doctoral programs often look for goal-oriented students who are committed and driven to successfully complete the program, so an essay detailing your professional goals and how the degree will allow you to accomplish them is usually required.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Transcripts : Official transcripts from the college or universities where you earned your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree (if required for admission) are needed.
• Writing Sample : Some programs require a sample of writing you completed for a previous academic program to assess your strengths in writing and research.

Other components of a doctoral degree program admissions application that you might encounter, depending on the institution, include recommendation letters, GRE or GMAT scores, and sometimes an admissions interview.

Accreditation

When choosing a doctoral degree program, it is important to find out if universities you’re considering are accredited by a regional accrediting organization .

To be accredited, a college or university must prove that they are meeting their mission through their programs and services and maintaining academic rigor and integrity. To prove this, institutions must engage in a consistent process of self-assessment and continually seek to improve themselves.

Accreditation often speaks to the quality of a college or university. Because doctoral programs are such an investment of time and funds, you may want to make sure that the university you choose is well-respected.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Student loans are usually available for doctoral students who qualify. Students seeking these opportunities will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) .

Your chosen university may also have scholarships and grants available that you may be eligible to apply for. Unlike a loan, grants and scholarships do not need to be paid back, so they are the most cost-effective funding opportunity to inquire about.

Many graduate students find that they are able to fund their education through a mix of loans and scholarships or grants. Cost and funding are important factors to consider when choosing your degree program, so it’s always advisable to inquire about funding opportunities early on in the admissions process.

What Can You Do with a Special Education Doctorate?

A doctoral degree in special education can prepare you to be a leader in the education field. You may qualify to be an administrator, teacher, professor, or researcher.

In a school system, you may be a school principal, curriculum designer, or special education department supervisor. In higher education, you may be a professor or administrator of academic or student affairs.

Your career may also lead you to a position as an educational researcher for a private organization or to a leadership position at a human services nonprofit.

How Much Does an Online PhD in Special Education Cost?

Although tuition rates vary, you can expect to pay between $450 and $595 per credit hour when pursuing a doctorate in special education.

Cost and how you can fund your degree are always critical factors to consider when selecting your degree program. It’s advisable to complete the FAFSA and ask your university about scholarships or grants.

A doctoral degree is an investment in yourself that may be reflected in your career, earning potential, and personal fulfillment. It’s important to weigh the cost of the degree against the potential rewards of successfully completing the program.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Special Education?

A doctoral degree is a significant time commitment because it prepares students to be experts in their field, requiring much training and preparation.

EdD and PhD programs typically require 60 to 90 credits of coursework, including either your dissertation or capstone project, and usually take 3 to 5 years to complete. If you already have a masters degree in education, you may have the opportunity to transfer in credits, shaving some time off of your doctoral degree.

Some programs require applicants to hold a masters degree and may require fewer credits than programs designed for students with a bachelor’s degree only. So there is variance among programs in terms of credit requirements and time to completion.

What’s the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD in Special Education?

While different in overall focus, EdD and PhD programs will be similar in their course offerings because students in both programs need to have a strong base of knowledge in special education.

An EdD in Special Education online program is focused on preparing students to be practitioners in the special education field. The program prepares people to work directly in the field for a school or institution of higher education, identifying and solving problems to make their services better.

While the PhD may also qualify you to be an educator or educational leader, a PhD in Special Education online program is more focused on conducting research in order to drive new information to the field. Someone holding a PhD might conduct the research that will inform the practical decisions made by those in leadership roles in education.

Most PhD programs still require a dissertation. When it comes to EdD programs, though, students are often given the option of completing a capstone or similar final project in lieu of a dissertation.

Is a Special Education Doctorate Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in special education is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common careers for someone holding a doctorate in special education include school principal, instructional coordinator, special education department supervisor, college or university professor, and higher education administrator.

There are many benefits to a leadership role in special education. With a doctoral degree, you will gain the research, problem-solving, and teaching skills necessary to lead the field in directions that will have positive impacts on a wide array of learners.

Getting Your EdD or PhD Online

If special education is your passion and you want to be a thought-leader in the field, then an EdD or PhD in Special Education may be the right path to consider. Even if you have work or family obligations that prevent you from attending a traditional program, there are regionally accredited programs that offer the convenience of a 100% online degree.

Special education is an incredibly important field that is in need of leaders who are strategic and innovative. By obtaining a doctorate in this field, you may have a positive impact on many students’ lives through research and policy.

College of Education

• Graduate Program

Special Education

• About The Department

Master's Degrees

Doctoral degrees.

• Certificates

Departmental Highlights

About the department.

With so many programs with such an enormous impact, it made sense for these programs to evolve into their own Department, a development that became official September 1, 2021. Now these experts in multiple facets of special education can collaborate and educate even more effectively. 

The Department of Special Education prepares special education leaders who ensure individuals with disabilities and their families are provided equal access to services and education. The Department also houses two renowned research centers, The Burkhart Center for Autism Education & Research, and The Virginia Murray Sowell Center for Research and Education in Sensory Disabilities

Special Education is currently serving under the leadership of Department Chair Dr. Joseph Claudet.

L.J. Gould, Ed.D. Admissions Coordinator Office of Graduate Admissions & Enrollment [email protected] 806-834-4224

Claudet, Joseph, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Department Chair Special Education [email protected] 806-834-1076

• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Educational Diagnostician
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Autism
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Deafblindness
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Generic Special Education-Supervision
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Orientation and Mobility
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Visual Impairment
• M.Ed. in Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis - Online
• Ph.D. in Special Education

Certificates & Certifications

The College of Education offers two types of non-degree programs: professional certification , necessary to be licensed and/or practice at an advanced level in your chosen career and Graduate Certificates , which provide an additional credential in your field of study but do not necessarily lead to licensure. Graduate Certificates can also be used as an introduction into your chosen master's degree program.

Certification options in the Department of Special Education include:

• Deafblindness
• Educational Diagnostician
• Sensory Impairment and Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Orientation & Mobility
• Visual Impairments

Learn more and view the complete list of Graduate Certificates available through the College of Education.

Dr. Nora Griffin-Shirley is working with colleagues to complete a manuscript for submittal titled: A Survey of Orientation and Mobility Specialist's Practice of Remote Instruction During COVID-19.

Faculty and staff of Project TEDD are developing a paper about best practices in assessment and intervention for students with dual diagnosis. This project is an overview of what is currently available as well as future considerations for identification and treatment.

Texas provider organizations complete front-line supervisor training

May 14, 2021

Seven agencies participated in a leadership program for provider organizations serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Read the full story

West Texas special education teachers complete training in dual diagnosis

January 19, 2021

The training was provided through the Virginia Murray Sowell Center for Research and Education in Sensory Disabilities.

See all College of Education News

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• International
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Special Education (M.Ed.)

M.ed. special education.

• Apply Today
• Review Admission Requirements

Program Overview

The program is respected for comprehensive, rigorous instruction, with both entry-level and advanced studies programs available. Faculty in special education, widely known for research excellence and leadership in their fields, value student mentoring and provide students with opportunities to work together on clinical and field-based research.

Course Work

The master of education (M.Ed.) degree offers four areas of concentration:

Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis (Au/ABA) - for teachers and therapists wishing to work with students with autism in school or clinical settings

Behavioral Disorders/Positive Behavior Supports (BD/PBS) - for teachers and specialists pursuing careers as behavior specialists or PBS specialists in schools, alternative settings or residential settings

Learning Disabilities/Inclusion (LD/1) - for educators seeking to instruct students with learning disabilities in school settings and/or interested in becoming academic intervention experts

Career Alternatives in Special Education (CASE) program allows post-baccalaureate students to earn the teacher certification and the M.Ed. simultaneously. Students can also complete a paid internship while employed as a teacher in lieu of student teaching.

Master's Degree Programs

Master's Degree + Initial Teacher Certification (CASE) Program

Graduate Catalog

Master's level courses in secondary education

Require for Teacher Cert

you must also meet the eligibility requirements posted by the Educator Preparation Program.

Certification Plan Info

If you are admitted to one of the CMED programs, please request a certification plan from the Office of Educator Preparation.

What Our Alumni Say

“Accomplished professors, rigorous curriculum and a supportive environment equates to an exceptional experience at Texas State University’s [special education] program. You will be highly prepared and competitive for any future endeavor in special education.”

— Martin Mendoza, M.Ed. ’15, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Texas A&M University

Program Details

Students have published work in professional journals and presented at professional conferences. Graduates have been successful in careers as special educators and in receiving doctoral scholarships.

Program Mission

The mission of the special education program is to prepare educators and specialists who apply current, evidence-based practices in special education for the purpose of preparing individuals with disabilities to live independent, responsible and personally satisfying lives in a diverse, global society. Graduates engage in practitioner inquiry and research, serve as leaders in special education policy and classroom practice, and apply their knowledge and skills to positively influence the inclusion of, and support for, persons who require the best professional practices of special education.

Career Options

Graduates of our special education program pursue careers as teachers, behavior specialists and learning interventionists. The program provides a verified course sequence required to be certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Graduates work in public and charter school programs, clinic settings and alternative education settings, including residential programs. Many graduates choose to pursue doctoral studies and have been successful in receiving prestigious doctoral scholarships.

Program Faculty

Our full-time faculty members have established outstanding research programs in treatment of challenging behavior and learning difficulties in children and young adults with autism, emotional/behavioral disorders and learning disabilities. Research is conducted in schools and the Clinic for Autism, Research, Evaluation and Support (CARES). Special education faculty provide technical assistance and policy consultation for state and national government and advocacy agencies. Faculty members' research and policy commentaries have been published in top-tier journals, and faculty are frequently invited speakers at national and international professional meetings.

Contact  The Graduate College  for general questions about getting started with your application, funding your degree, and more. If you have program-specific questions after reviewing the program details, we encourage you to contact the following individuals.

Graduate Advisor Dr. Jennifer Porterfield [email protected] 512.245.6006 Education Building (ED) , Room 2108

Advisor Support Dr. Alyson Collins [email protected] 512.245.8389 Education Building (ED) , Room 3013

Apply Now Already know that Texas State is right for you?

• Start Your Application

Application Process

Review requirements, submit application, upload documents, check status, application deadlines, autism/applied behavior analysis; behavioral disorders/positive behavior supports; learning disabilities/inclusion.

*This program’s deadline is flexible for those not requiring an F/J visa. A flexible deadline means applications received after the standard deadline may be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis with no guarantees for admission consideration.

Career Alternatives in Special Education Program

Admission requirements.

The items required for admission consideration are listed below.  Additional information for applicants with international credentials can be found on our  international web pages .

Application

• completed online application

Review important information about the online application.

Application Fee

• $20 nonrefundable certificate fee (if applying to one of the certificate programs) and either
• $55 nonrefundable master's application fee OR
• $90 nonrefundable master's application fee for applications with international credentials 

Review important information about application fees.

Transcripts & GPA

• baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)
• a copy of an official transcript from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• minimum 2.75 GPA in your  last 60 hours  of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)

Effective Fall 2024

• a 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in your  last 60 hours  of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)

Review important information about transcripts. Official transcripts, sent directly from your institution, will be required if admission is granted.

Test Scores

• GRE not required

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

TOEFL Scores for CASE applicants*:

Applicants are required to submit TOEFL scores that meet the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or one of the exempt countries found on the TEA standards and Texas State University standards .

• 22 listening
• 24 speaking

*Exceptions are made for students who have earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an institution of higher education in India. These students must meet the following requirements:

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
• official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and
• minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

Review important information about official test scores.

This program does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Approved English proficiency exam scores for non-CASE applicants:

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official Duolingo Scores required with a 110 overall
• copies of certifications or licensures (if applicable)
• resume/CV (include licenses or certificates and all previous teaching or other education-related experiences)
• Why did you choose Texas State University’s graduate program in Special Education?
• To which concentration Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis, Behavioral Disorders/Positive Behavior Supports, Learning Disabilities/Inclusion, or Career Alternatives in Special Education) are you applying, and why have you selected that area of study?
• What types of interactions have you had professionally and/or personally with people with learning, behavioral, developmental and/or intellectual disability?
• What are your career goals post-graduation and what do you hope to achieve professionally in the next 5 years?
• What attributes do you possess that will empower you to excel academically, if accepted into this program?
• What are your experiences in collaborative professional and/or academic settings, and how those experiences have prepared you for the demands of the program?
• your relationship to the applicant
• your knowledge of the applicant’s work performance
• your assessment of the applicant’s potential to meet the academic and professional demands of a rigorous graduate program
• your assessment of the applicant’s ability to manage the social and professional demands of graduate school (e.g., getting along with peers and professors, participating in class discussions and activities, attending class, meeting deadlines, responding to feedback)

Review important information about documents.

Additional Information

• Application Decisions
• International Applicants
• Reapplication Process

Ready to Apply?

Need more info.

• Request Program Information

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

• Chair's Message
• C&I Strategic Plan
• Organizational Chart
• Teacher Education Program Highlights
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Initial Teacher Certification
• Doctoral Program
• Graduate Minors within the C&I Department
• Accelerated Alternative Teacher Certification Program
• Office of Educator Preparation (OEP)
• Graduate College
• Undergraduate Advising
• College of Education
• COVID-19 Resource Center
• CARES: The Clinic for Autism Research, Evaluation, and Support
• Central Texas Writing Project
• Student Resources
• Faculty & Staff Resources
• University Resources
• Faculty Contact Info
• Faculty Websites
• Department Staff
• Student Organizations
• Texas State Summer Play and Inquiry Workshop
• Tomas Rivera Book Award
• CTWP Invitational Summer Institute for Educators
• CTWP Young Writers Camp
• Graduate Assistantship Application
• Nontenure Line Faculty Pool
• Field Block Information and Application
• Name Tag Ordering (Blocks & Clinical Teaching)
• Block Handbook
• Instructional Aide Pathway

Current Students

• Faculty & Staff
• Family & Visitors

Special Education

The Graduate Special Education program prepares students to make a difference in the lives of children with disabilities. The program offers a 36-hour Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree with a major in Special Education. Students choose one of four concentrations: 1) Learning Disabilities/Inclusion; 2) Behavior Disorders/Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports; 3) Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis; and 4) Career Alternatives in Special Education (CASE) which offers initial teacher certification, as well as a Master's degree in Special Education. 

Fall and spring classes meet face-to-face on the San Marcos campus one or two evenings a week; summer classes meet daily during the day. Graduates are prepared for positions such as classroom teachers, behavior specialists, learning disability specialists, and interventionists. Settings for these positions include public schools, hospitals, private clinics, and juvenile justice facilities, or continuing academic work at prestigious doctoral programs.

Our Mission

The mission of the special education program is to prepare educators and specialists who apply current, evidence-based practices in special education for the purpose of preparing individuals with disabilities to live independent, responsible and personally satisfying lives in a diverse, global society. Graduates engage in practitioner inquiry and research, serve as leaders in special education policy and classroom practice, and apply their knowledge and skills to positively influence the inclusion of, and support for, persons with disabilities who are entitled to the highest quality of professional practices that special education can offer.

Dr. Jennifer Porterfield

Graduate Advisor and Special Education Program Coordinator

ED 2108  

 (512) 245-6006 

  [email protected]   

Dr. Alyson Collins

Undergraduate Advisor

ED 3013  

(512) 245-8389  

[email protected]   

Graduate Program

• Graduation Requirements
• Comprehensive Examination

Practicum Experiences

• AU/ABA Practicum
• BD/PBIS Practicum
• CASE Practicum

Graduate Catalog

Undergraduate Studies

Undergrad Catalog

Student Chapter of Council of Exceptional Children

Prospective Students

Areas of Concentration

• Autism/Applied Behavior Analysis
• Behavior Disorders/Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
• Learning Disabilities/Inclusion
• Career Alternatives in Special Education

How to Apply

Faculty and More

Featured Projects

CARES Clinic

Education & Human Development

Educational psychology, how to apply.

The Department OF Educational Psychology

The Department of Educational Psychology (EPSY) is home to a variety of interrelated disciplines and degree options focused on human development and well-being in educational and community contexts. Our undergraduate programs prepare students to work with children and youth in a variety of community and school contexts. We also offer a range of professional master’s degrees geared towards professionals in schools, communities, and the corporate world. For those interested in doctoral studies we offer Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Educational Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and School Psychology.

Program Areas to choose from

Educational psychology, us news & world report 2021, number of online courses available, former student highlight, michele sheppard.

“When I started at A&M, it was unlike any other, they push you to be your very best. Being a single mom and going back to school was not always easy but you can do it!”

Master’s →

Bachelor’s →

Certificates →

Emphasis Areas

Educational psychology programs.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES

EPSY offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education and University Studies, with one of three focuses.

Undergraduate Studies

Graduate Programs

The department of Educational Psychology offers a range of professional graduate degree programs.

ONLINE EDUCATION

EPSY offers a wide variety of online programs and courses to many the diverse needs our students.

Online Education

Certificates

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to complete certificate programs while completing their degree requirements.

FROM OUR FORMER STUDENTS

“I came to the conclusion that being a special educator is less about whom you teach and more about what you teach.”

– Stephanie Haetchen ’12 Special Education Programs

Upcoming Events

View all upcoming EPSY events

Master's in:

Special education (online).

Online M.Ed. / M.S. in Special Education

The online master’s degree in Special Education is intended for individuals with a solid background in education, behavior, disability, or related fields.

A teaching certificate is not required, but teaching or clinical experience working with individuals with disabilities is highly desirable. Interested individuals should have a commitment to work in the field or pursue additional graduate training after receiving a degree.

Our program works best for professionals who are self-motivated and can manage the rigor of a 36-credit hour, two-year fully online master’s program.

Successful graduates of the program have gone into roles such as:

• General educators
• Special educators
• Behavior coaches
• Administrators

Admissions Deadlines

Summer admission: February 15

Strong applicants have:

• Significant work with persons with disabilities
• Significant work with both culturally and linguistically diverse groups
• Interest and/or experience in behavior analysis

To be admitted to a graduate program, you must apply to the department of Educational Psychology and Texas A&M University.

The master’s program in Special Education does not require GRE scores.

Program Details

Degree: Master’s in Special Education Degrees Offered:  Master of Education, Master of Science Minimum Credit Hours: 36 Delivery: Online

Select School of Education and update credit hours.

Core Curriculum

• 2023-2024 Master’s Handbook
• Master’s Handbook 2022
• ABA Certificate Handbook 2023

EPSY 630: Single Case Experimental Design** SPED 601: Assessment in School Settings** SPED 602: Ethical and Professional Conduct in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis** SPED 604: Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis** SPED 605: Leadership in Applied Behavior Analysis** SPED 611: Multicultural and Bilingual Special Education SPED 617: Adolescent Literacy for Students with Diverse Instructional Needs SPED 628: Consultation in Special Education SPED 630: Early Literacy for Students with Diverse Instructional Needs SPED 632: Transition Education and Services for Individuals with Disabilities SPED 642: Prevention, Support, and Intervention for Students with Emotional and Behavior Problems** SPED 699: Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis**

** Coursework required for students seeking certification as Board Certified Behavior Analysts and the ABA graduate certificate. Learn more about certification requirements.

Heather Goldsberry

Academic Advisor I

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Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Professor

Lisa Bowman-Perrott

Associate Professor

Julie Thompson

Melissa Fogarty

Clinical Associate Professor and Associate Department Head

Florina Erbeli, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Marcia Montague

Clinical Assistant Professor

Erinn Whiteside

Wen-Hsuan Chang

Alyssa Henry

Funding opportunities.

We offer funding opportunities for special educators working in schools in the Brazos Valley region through Project SUCCESS .

Frequently Asked Questions

List of bachelor degree equivalencies.

Please view a brief  List of Bachelor Degree Equivalencies by Country . If you do not find your country listed and are unsure of your degree equivalency, please contact the Office of Admissions at  [email protected] .

Can my Application fee be waived?

Yes. This fee may be waived only in exceptional cases for low-income applicants and McNair Scholars. To receive the waiver, you must submit an awards letter from your current school’s financial aid office showing the award of a Pell Grant. Your Student Aid Report (SAR) from a current FAFSA can also be submitted to show financial need. McNair Scholars must submit a letter from their McNair Program Director verifying their status as a McNair Scholar in good standing to receive the fee waiver. Submit this information to the Academic Affairs Business Office and include your major of interest and term of application. Waiver of application fee is not available for international students.

Is supervision of experience requirements offered?

It is the responsibility of students to independently seek out supervision opportunities. TAMU does not provide supervision for practicum hours.

Statement of Purpose Essay

All applicants must complete the Essay, Statement of Purpose and explain the following:

• Why you applied to this program
• Academic background and training
• Potential for graduate study
• Research experience
• Other relevant professional experiences

I want/need a Graduate Assistantship/Fellowship – how do I apply?

Please note that we cannot guarantee any financial assistance to any student. We will contact all admitted students about the process for applying for all available assistantships. This is a separate process from applying for admission. The department and programs will choose students to be nominated for Graduate Diversity or Graduate Merit fellowships. These fellowships are only open to U.S. citizens. Please do not ask to be nominated for one of these fellowships as the program will determine which students are competitive for these awards.

Can I send supplemental materials?

You can send us anything you like, and will keep them in our application file. However, we will not upload these items to your file. If you want items such as a professional paper or resume included for review, you need to upload these items to the application as we cannot upload them on your behalf.

How do is submit my letters of Recommendation?

The  GraduateCAS  online application includes a Recommendations section where you must add your recommenders’ information. Once you have saved the recommendation requests, GraduateCAS will contact each recommender via email to request the completion of the recommendation form and letter of recommendation. We require three letters of recommendations and they must be submitted directly by recommenders through the electronic system.

What are the typical program costs?

Check out the cost of attendance estimator.

Please note, you must update the program hours.

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance (COA), please visit our cost and tuition rates webpage ( https://aggie.tamu.edu/billing-and-payments/cost-and-tuition-rates ). This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated COA information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Can you guide me through the application process?

How to Apply: Master’s Application Information | Doctoral Application Information

I live out of state. Do you accept out-of-state applicants?

Yes, we accept in-state and out-of-state applicants.

Is there any opportunity for financial assistance?

Yes, there are opportunities for financial assistance through the following departments: Office of Graduate Studies Financial Aid

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College of Education

Bilingual Special Education, M.Ed.

Across the country, schools are facing an increasing number of bilingual students with special needs. These students need teachers who can provide a quality education in an inclusive environment. The Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Bilingual Special Education will empower teachers to create a more culturally and linguistically responsive classroom that ensures success for all students. 

Available in a 100% online format that is ideal for current teachers

Assignments are centered around your classroom and current students

Program is aligned with state and national standards for special and bilingual education

Alumna Uses Degree to Better Serve Students

Career opportunities.

Graduates are prepared for opportunities as educators, administrators, and community leaders to fill the need for certified teachers in special education and bilingual education. Students acquire skills in implementing curricula, lessons and assessment while also honing their leadership and advocacy skills across different educational settings . 

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My work teaching special ed makes a difference. But how much more can I take on? | Opinion

I became a special education (special ed) teacher after 20-plus years of being a general education teacher. I wanted to work with and advocate for students with disabilities. I like my job, and my support makes a difference. My workload, however, has increased due to staffing shortages, and I wonder how much more I can take on.

I co-teach while providing differentiated instruction, or “service,” for students with special needs placed in general education classrooms. Services, measured in minutes, are stated in a student’s Individualized Education Program and based on their disabilities. I’m also a case manager for 20 students. I maintain special ed documents, track progress, and facilitate meetings with families and educators. I work at full capacity, worried that one mistake might lead to non-compliance.

There is a critical shortage of special ed teachers in Texas, yet the number of students who qualify keeps growing . Heavy workloads negatively impact the quality of services we provide. In one class, for example, eleven students (about half the class) require between 45-75 minutes of individualized instruction. While one student with dyslexia, for example, needs simplified instructions repeated, another student with a learning disability in reading comprehension needs guiding questions to understand the theme of a story. Spending more than a few minutes with one student means I can’t get to everyone.

Special education is underfunded by $1.8 billion annually, according to the Texas Commission on Special Education Funding. Despite this deficit, legislators continue to pass laws requiring more of special ed teachers, such as House Bill 3928 , which increases caseloads significantly. We cannot continue to do more with less. State legislators must pass special education finance reform because students with disabilities need qualified special education teachers to provide appropriate services.

Change Texas' funding formula for special education

The 30-year-old special ed funding formula is inefficient, inequitable, and ineffective for improving student outcomes. According to the 2023 Texas Academic Performance Report , 13.6% of students in special ed were prepared for college, compared to 59.2% of all Texas students. The Commission recommends a “ service-intensity ” based system that would allow Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to better staff for the services students need, not their placement. Currently, students with multiple disabilities who attend gen-ed classes receive less funding than students with one disability who attend self-contained classrooms. 

The Commission recommends establishing grant programs to help LEAs grow teachers from within their communities. Paraprofessionals, for example, might receive financial assistance with acquiring their teaching credentials. Since low compensation is one of the primary reasons special ed teachers leave, stipends can help entice new teachers (like they did me) and retain existing ones. The Teacher Vacancy Task Force recommends mentors for new teachers and ongoing, high-quality training for us all. Training is especially important for special ed teachers, given the frequent changes in regulations. 

Texas must pass stand-alone special education finance reform

In the 2023 legislative session, special education funding was denied because it was tied to the failed effort to pass Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), also called vouchers. ESAs allow public money to be spent on private school tuition. Private schools don’t have to accept or provide services for students with special needs, unlike public schools. If four special sessions were called to push for ESAs, a fifth can address special education funding reform.

In Texas, 11.7% , or about 700,000 students, rely on special ed teachers to receive services. Our students can’t wait until the next legislative session. In the words of Representative Steve Toth following the passage of House Bill 3928, “We need more money for public education…Texas needs to work harder at developing programs to take and train teachers on how to help these kids.”

It’s time they get it done.

Castañón-Hernandez is a special education inclusion teacher in Austin and a 2022-2023 TEACH PLUS National Senior Writing Fellow.

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Bridging Research to Practice

#7 Ranked Program by U.S. News & World Report

The Department of Special Education offers students the opportunity to gain specialist training and research experience with diverse populations across the lifespan. We offer both undergraduate and graduate programs, and our students study topics such as supporting bilingual students with disabilities, math and reading interventions, design and evaluation of assistive technology, educating students with autism spectrum disorders and the transition and post-school employment for people with disabilities.

Starting Fall 2024, our M.Ed. specializations in Autism and Developmental Disabilities and Early Childhood Intervention are available both fully online and in-person!

The Department of Special Education is a collaboration between faculty, students, staff and resources aimed at improving the quality of life and promoting success for individuals with disabilities.

Our students engage in coursework led by experts in the field, and innovative research aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Our research has an important global impact. The underlying focus of our research aims to improve the quality of life and access to equitable education for individuals with disabilities and their families, particularly in K-12 education.

College News

• April 12, 2024 COE Media Mentions: April 5 – 12
• April 9, 2024 Research, Impact and Achievements: March 2024
• April 5, 2024 COE Media Mentions: March 29 – April 5

More News »

College Events

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Department Announcements

Associate Professor North Cooc Receives Prestigious Spencer Foundation Grant

Dr. North Cooc and Dr. Grace MyHyun Kim will study the recruitment and retention of Asian-American teachers in K-12 education.

Department of Special Education Ranks No.7 in the Nation

The department remains in the top 10 in the US News & World Report 2024 graduate school rankings list.

Associate Professors Receive Grants EIR Grants from the U.S. Department of Education

Dr. Christian Doabler and Dr. Doris Baker will research how to prepare high-needs students for science instruction.