doctorate in special education

Online Special Education Doctorate Degree

Online Special Education Doctorate Degree: An Overview

How long does it take to earn a doctorate in special education online, how much does a doctorate in special education cost, online doctorate in special education admissions requirements, choosing an accredited online special education doctorate degree program, online coursework, dissertation or research project, professional associations in special education.

• National Association of Special Education Teachers : NASET is home to the Special Educator E-Journal, and the association’s website features links to additional publications and reading materials. Members may be eligible to earn board certification in special education at a reduced rate, and they also gain access to members-only professional development courses.
• ASCD : An organization dedicated to the supervision of curriculum development, ASCD represents more than 115,000 members worldwide, as well as 51 affiliate organizations. The association offers an extensive online learning center that includes member-only webinars and interactive courses, and also publishes Educational Leadership, a quarterly journal.
• Council for Exceptional Children : Founded with 12 members in 1922, CEC represents more than 27,000 members. The CEC website features a recorded webinar archive with dozens of entries, and the council also offers professional development activities and programs that satisfy continuing education requirements for teachers. Student members receive a 20 percent discount on their annual dues.

Example courses

• Special education law and policy
• Current issues and trends in special education
• Advanced study of best practices in special education
• Analysis/interpretation of research
• Preparing teachers of students with exceptionalities

Job Outlook and Salaries for Graduates

What can you do with a doctorate in special education.

• Instructional coordinator : Many instructional coordinators provide administrative support for academic and training programs at schools and universities, while some perform the same function in human resources departments for different organizations. They design and implement different types of educational curricula and also coordinate schedules for classrooms and facilities used for educational programs.
• Special education director : These employees oversee the special education departments at schools and support teachers and staff through counseling, training and continuing education. They may be employed at the district level or dedicate their work to specific educational facilities.
• Special education teacher, secondary school : Special education teachers at the secondary level work primarily with students with mild or moderate disabilities, emphasizing basic skills each learner will need in the real world. They often collaborate with other professionals to ensure individual student progress, including therapists, social workers and other teaching staff.

Licensure and certification

How much are salaries for doctorate in special education graduates.

College of Education

Overview: phd special education.

The PhD program in Special Education prepares students for careers as university scholars and professors, as well as for leadership positions in educational institutions.  Within the context of urban education, this program emphasizes theory and research on emotional/behavior disorders, language and learning disabilities, developmental and intellectual disabilities, early intervention, transition, and teacher preparation.  Students have the opportunity to be involved in research in a wide range of critical issues in special education using a variety of research methodologies.  Research topics may include parent-child and peer interactions, bilingual special education, social skills in students with disabilities, language and literacy in students with disabilities, inclusion and public policy, early intervention models, and preparation of special education teachers and leaders for urban schools.

Overview of Requirements (Fall 2013) Heading link Copy link

This program requires a minimum of 96 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree, or a minimum of 64 semester hours beyond the master’s degree.  These requirements include a 6-hour research project and 12 hours of dissertation credit.  You are also required to pass written and oral portions of a preliminary examination and successfully defend your dissertation research.  If you enter the program with an earned master’s degree in a field relevant to special education, the requirements are:

• COE Doctoral Studies Core —12 hours
• Methodology Requirement –- 12 hours
• Special Education Program Core — 22 hours (minimum)
• Research Project — 6 hours
• Preliminary Examination — Written Portion
• Preparation of a Dissertation Research Proposal
• Preliminary Examination—Oral Portion
• Dissertation Research — 12 hours (minimum)
• Dissertation Defense

If you enter with a bachelor’s degree but not a master’s degree, you must take a minimum of 32 hours of additional coursework in an area of specialization approved by your advisor.

Doctoral Studies Core (12 hours) Heading link Copy link

All doctoral degrees in the College of Education require a core of courses that focuses on different types of research in educational settings, research design, and the analysis of educational data.  These core courses will help you develop the minimum skills needed to evaluate research literature and to begin your own independent research.  You are encouraged to take these core courses early in your program; however, you may take other courses in the program before completing this set of courses.

The requirements of the Doctoral Studies Core are:

• ED 504—Urban Contexts and Educational Research (4 hours)
• ED 505—Introduction to Educational Research: Paradigms and Processes (4 hours)
• ED 506—Introduction to Educational Research: Designs and Analyses (4 hours)

Methodology Requirement (12 hours) Heading link Copy link

In addition to the Doctoral Studies Core above, you must take a minimum of three research methodology courses as described below.  Note also that you may choose or be encouraged by your faculty advisor to take additional courses in research methodology beyond these minimums in order to meet your personal scholarly and professional goals.

The Methodology Requirement includes:

• ED 502—Essentials of Qualitative Inquiry in Education (4 hours)
• ED 503/EPSY 503—Essentials of Quantitative Inquiry in Education (4 hours)
• A third methodology course selected in consultation with your advisor (4 hours)

Special Education Program Core (22 hours minimum) Heading link Copy link

All students in the Ph.D. in Special Education program must take a minimum of 22 semester hours in coursework related to the field of special education.  At least 16 of those hours must be taken in the College of Education.

All students in the program must take:

• SPED 564—Proseminar in Special Education (4 hours)
• Three special education seminars—SPED 592 (4 hours each for a total of 12 hours)

Recent Special Education seminars (SPED 592) have focused on research on literacy, teacher preparation, inclusion policies, and qualitative methods.

You may take your elective courses within the Department of Special Education or in other departments of the College of Education.  While you may take all your courses in the College of Education, you are encouraged to take courses in other departments and units of the University such as Disability Studies, Psychology, and Sociology.  Study outside the College of Education can help you develop additional conceptual and methodological tools for use in the study of educational issues.

You should be aware that 22 semester hours is the minimum number of hours required to establish an area of specialization.  Students typically take more than the minimum number of courses, or may be required to do so by their faculty advisors.

Teaching Internship Heading link Copy link

A teaching internship is strongly recommended for those individuals intending to pursue a career in higher education or school leadership.  A teaching internship requires that you register for SPED 538 (up to 8 hours) and co-teach a university course under the direction of a faculty instructor.  The course should be related to your interests and future career objectives.  A faculty member will be the instructor of record and will supervise you closely throughout the internship.  You will assume responsibility for course instruction, student interaction, and evaluation to the extent negotiated with the instructor.  You should complete this requirement prior to being considered for a visiting lecturer position.  In addition to this internship, you are encouraged to seek opportunities to deliver guest lectures in other classes offered by the Department of Special Education.

Research Project (SPED 593, 6 hours) Heading link Copy link

The research project is an important initial experience in doing research on actual issues in your chosen area of study.  The research project may also provide an opportunity to explore and pilot ideas for dissertation research.  If you wish, you may collaborate on research projects with program faculty and perhaps with other doctoral students.  Ideally, you would work on such projects with faculty as full research colleagues and be involved in all aspects of the project, from design through implementation, analysis, and writing of results.  Such work may culminate in a presentation at a scholarly conference or in submission of a manuscript to a professional journal for publication.  You should consult your faculty advisor to determine when you are ready to embark on your research project.  As you design your project, you should discuss with your advisor the need for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval for your project.  Information about IRB approval of student research is contained in Section V of this handbook.

Annual Reviews Heading link Copy link

To enable you and your faculty advisor to monitor and provide feedback on your progress through the program, you are required to prepare and submit a formal progress report each year.  This involves completing a form called the Professional Development Plan (PDP), which lists courses and experiences needed across different competency domains.  Department faculty review and discuss your performance and give written feedback and recommendations to enhance or sustain your progress in attaining course, teaching, and research goals.  If you do not complete the annual review process you will not be able to register for future semesters until you have submitted a PDP. (Note for Ph.D. students who were admitted after 2010:  in the annual review process, students whose progress raises serious concerns for two consecutive years will be dropped from the program.)

The Preliminary Examination Heading link Copy link

The purpose of the preliminary examination is to determine your readiness to undertake dissertation research.  The examination has two parts—a written portion that focuses primarily on your program of study, and an oral portion that focuses primarily on your dissertation proposal.  Both portions are evaluated by a preliminary examination committee.  Passing the preliminary examination constitutes formal admission to candidacy for the Ph.D.

The written portion of the preliminary examination should be taken when you have completed most, though not necessarily all, of your coursework.  The oral portion of the exam should be taken when the dissertation proposal is completed.  You must take and pass the oral portion of the exam before beginning your dissertation research. Also before dissertation research can begin, the Institutional Review Board (IRB) must give approval (see Section V).

Forming a Preliminary Examination Committee Heading link Copy link

You should begin making arrangements to take preliminary examinations when you have almost finished your coursework. First, you must find a faculty member to chair your preliminary examination committee.  Faculty program advisors may serve as committee chairs, or may help to identify another special education faculty member whose interests and expertise may align more closely with your program of study and dissertation research.  You should work with your faculty advisor to identify and recruit at least four other members to serve on your examination committee.

At least three members, including the chair, must be UIC faculty who are full members of the Graduate College.  Tenured or tenure-track faculty are usually full members of the Graduate College; clinical and visiting faculty generally are not.  At least two committee members must be tenured faculty in the College of Education faculty (i.e., associate professors or full professors).  Also, at least two members (in addition to the chair) must be in the Department of Special Education.  The Graduate College does not require that the preliminary examination committee include a member from outside the Department.  However, since the Graduate College does require that each dissertation committee have a member from outside the program (see Section IV), you may want to ask an outside member to be on your preliminary examination committee as well.

Professors who have emeritus status maintain their same rights to work with doctoral students for at least a three-year term (this term is renewable).  They can serve as doctoral advisors, committee chairs, and committee members.  If they were tenured and full members of the Graduate College at the time of their retirement, these professors emeriti retain these statuses for purposes of composing an exam or dissertation committee.

In order to formally constitute the preliminary examination committee, you must submit to the Graduate College a Committee Recommendation Form.  This form may be obtained from the Graduate College’s website: http://grad.uic.edu/cms/?pid=1000329 .    At the same time, you should ask the Office of Student Services (3145 ETMSW) for a degree checklist (see Section IV).  A list of the courses you have taken is available through the my.UIC portal: https://my.uic.edu/common/ . You must return the completed degree checklist with the signed Committee Recommendation Form to the Office of Student Services.  The completed form must be signed by the committee chairperson and submitted to the Office of Student Services at least three weeks before the date of the examination.  Before submitting this form, you must be sure that the faculty members identified to serve on the committee have agreed to serve.  If you want to include a committee member who is not on the faculty at UIC or is not a member of the UIC Graduate College, the Graduate College must approve that member.  This approval process is initiated when the Committee Recommendation Form is submitted to the Office of Student Services.  A copy of the potential committee member’s full current curriculum vitae must be submitted with the Committee Recommendation Form.

Written Portion of the Exam Heading link Copy link

The chairperson of the preliminary examination committee will convene at least two other committee members (one of whom must be in the Department of Special Education) to develop questions for the written portion of the exam.  The written portion of the preliminary examination consists of a comprehensive take-home exam.  Questions for the take-home exam may address any area that is relevant to your course of study, including topics related to your proposed dissertation.  You will have the opportunity to inform your committee of relevant topics.  The committee will take these topics into consideration and subsequently assign questions that you can address over a ten-day period.  Your preliminary exam committee will read the exam.  Responses should be written in a style typical of scholarly writing and in APA Manual format (6th edition).  You must pass the written portion of the exam to take the oral portion of the exam, which focuses primarily on the dissertation proposal.  After you have passed the written portion of the exam, the chair will submit a form indicating this accomplishment to the Office of Student Services for inclusion in your file.

Preparing a Dissertation Proposal Heading link Copy link

Your coursework, research project, and independent readings should give you a good start on planning dissertation research.  It is important for you to decide on a topic, conduct a relevant review of literature, and carry out a pilot study before taking the written portion of the preliminary examination.  Of course, the written portion of the exam will help develop further your ideas for your dissertation research.  After completing the written portion of the preliminary examination, you should prepare to complete your proposal for dissertation research and prepare for the oral portion of the preliminary examination.

Dissertation research may be developed from the many possibilities related to your area of study and from a variety of research traditions.  The process of writing a dissertation proposal is challenging, but it provides unprecedented opportunities for contributing to our field, as well as creative and personally rewarding work.  You should draw on your studies to date and avail yourself of the advice and support of your committee chair, committee members, and other faculty.  The organization, content, and length of the proposal are issues that you will decide with the chair of your preliminary examination committee, in consultation with other committee members.

When you and the committee chair agree that the dissertation proposal is ready for review and approval, you should work with the chair to distribute the proposal to members of the preliminary examination committee and to schedule the oral portion of the preliminary exam.  The proposal should be distributed to committee members for review at least three weeks before the scheduled exam date.  It is strongly recommended that you include in the proposal a draft of the IRB application.  As a rule, you should not submit your application to the IRB before the oral portion of the examination is completed because committees may make recommendations for changing research protocols during the exam.  (See Section V for more information about IRB requirements and procedures.)

Oral Portion of the Exam Heading link Copy link

The oral portion of the preliminary exam is primarily a hearing on the dissertation proposal, although it may also address aspects of the written portion of the exam.  The oral portion of the exam must be taken and passed before dissertation research can begin.  The primary function of the oral portion of the exam is committee review, revision, and approval of the dissertation research proposal.

Evaluation of the Preliminary Exam Heading link Copy link

Both written and oral portions of the preliminary examination are evaluated on a pass-fail basis.  If two or more members of the preliminary examination committee assign a failing grade to a portion of the exam, you fail that portion.  If necessary, the entire portion of the exam or some element of that portion can be retaken once.  If you fail the oral portion of the exam you may be asked to do additional work or to revise your dissertation proposal before the committee gives final approval.  Even if a committee does not fail you on the oral portion of the exam, it may require that you make particular changes in the dissertation proposal before the proposal is approved.

Passing the oral portion of the preliminary exam signifies that committee members have given their approval for you to carry out your proposed dissertation research.  Once you have reached this point, you must submit the final version of the IRB application for approval (see Section V).  Before submitting an application to the IRB you must have it reviewed and signed by the committee chair and the chair of the Department of Special Education.

After you pass both the oral and written portions of the preliminary exam, you are considered to have advanced to candidacy.

Dissertation Research (SPED 599, 12 hours minimum) Heading link Copy link

After passing the oral portion of the preliminary examination and receiving approval from the IRB, you (now designated a ‘doctoral candidate’) may begin your dissertation research.  You must register for a minimum of 12 hours of dissertation credit during the time that you conduct and write up your research.  After you have registered for the minimum of 12 hours of dissertation credit you may petition the Graduate College to be permitted to register for 0 (zero) hours of dissertation credit.  See Section IV, Registration Guidelines for Doctoral Candidates, for details and exceptions.

Dissertation Defense Heading link Copy link

When you near the end of dissertation research, you should begin to plan your dissertation defense with your dissertation committee chair.  See Section IV for specific information about organizing and scheduling a meeting for the dissertation defense and filing all the paperwork required before the defense can be conducted.

According to Graduate College regulations, at least one year must pass between completing the oral portion of the preliminary examination and the dissertation defense.  If you fail to complete all program requirements, including the dissertation defense, within five years of passing the oral portion of the preliminary examination you must retake the preliminary examination.

Masters in Special Education Degree Program Guide

Top 14 online phd in special education programs.

An online Ph.D. in Special Education or online Ed.D. in Special Education will prepare you for one of two career streams: work in a college or university or in a research agency or organization. Programs typically include coursework, a research apprenticeship or dissertation, and practical experiences which help graduates prepare research that will be used to contribute to the knowledge base in special education. You can work toward your degree online, which gives you the flexibility to complete your coursework from anywhere.

We created this list of the top 14 online Ph.D. in Special Education programs. We received our initial list of graduate programs in special education from College Navigator and narrowed down our list to include only those programs offering a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Special Education. We also included programs that offered special education as a concentration area. Schools selected to be included in our list offer most their coursework online (allowing students to continue living in their current city), have a positive online reputation, are regionally accredited, and have faculty with special education experience. Programs are ranked first by accreditation status, with preference given to schools with NCATE or TEAC accreditation), then by number and length of residency. In keeping with the intention of the article, preference was given to schools that did not require a residency.

Ranking Ph.D. Special Education Online Programs

#14 – gwynned-mercy college – gwynedd valley, pennsylvania, online accelerated executive doctorate of education with a concentration in special education.

Students who have completed a doctoral program but have not yet completed a dissertation may be interested in the Online Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education with a concentration in Special Education from Gwynedd-Mercy College. This 18-month program matches each student to an advisor who conducts regular dissertation advisement sessions. Most coursework can be completed online, however there are three short residencies required. A practicum experience may also be required as part of the program. Graduates of the program have gone on to become leaders in school districts, colleges, educational policy organizations, and government agencies.

#13 – City University of Seattle – Seattle, Washington

Doctor of education in leadership-specialized study concentration.

City University of Seattle features a flexible Ed.D. program that can be tailored to meet the needs of special education professionals. The program can be completed in just two and half years, and boasts high satisfaction ratings from those surveyed. The online Doctor of Education program has a liberal transfer credit policy which benefits students with extensive work or professional experience. Three residencies are required as part of the program. Each of the residencies focuses on a piece of the dissertation process.

#12 – Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, Arizona

Doctor of education in organizational leadership with an emphasis in special education.

Grand Canyon University offers an online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Special Education. This 60-credit hour program features an in-depth, research based approach. Students are familiarized with the dissertation process right from the beginning and complete two dissertation themed residencies. Courses cover topics areas such as human development, leadership practices, global history and politics of education, and governance structures in special education. Graduates have gone on to become special education consultants, curriculum developers, policymakers, and school administrators.

#11 – Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Ed.d. in educational leadership and management concentration in special education leadership.

Drexel University features an entirely online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management with a concentration in Special Education. Students develop the skills needed to lead complex organizations including schools, service agencies, and government offices. This accelerated degree program is offered part-time to allow students to continue working throughout the duration of the program. Students can complete the program in three years. Drexel University offers students personalized academic and career advisement.

#10 – Slippery Rock University – Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania

Doctor in special education.

Accreditation : NCATE Slippery Rock University features a Doctor in Special Education that prepares students for leadership positions in the field. Students take both synchronous and asynchronous courses during the fall, winter, and spring semesters. During the summer, there are weekend face-to-face meetings to allow students to engage with faculty. The program follows a cohort model and can be completed in three years of study. Faculty are experienced in the field and work to prepare students to be successful in high demand areas.

#9 – Regent University – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Online doctor of education (ed.d.)-special education.

Accreditation : TEAC Regent University features an online Ed.D. in Special Education with a focus on education research, practice, and policy. Students learn how to interpret data, develop research-based interventions, and understand the history behind best practices. While most courses can be completed online, there is a required four-day summer residency each July. The residency allows students to get together to interact with faculty and gain professional experience. Graduates of the program have become successful in areas related to education research, education policy, education advocacy, and central office executive leadership.

#8 – University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, Colorado

Special education, phd.

Accreditation : NCATE The University of Northern Colorado in Greeley features an online Ph.D. in Special Education. This NCATE accredited program prepares students for leadership positions in both public and private schools, as well as colleges, government organizations, and businesses. The program provides flexibility for students to focus on areas of interest such as autism, behavior disorders, special education research, or university teaching. UNC is home to three different special education training centers which give doctoral students the opportunity to be advocates for change in the field. This 72-81 credit hour program takes between three and five years to complete through a mixture of online and in person courses, allowing special education professionals to continue working while pursuing their doctoral degree.

#7 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia

Ed. d. curriculum & instruction: special education.

Accreditation : NCATE Liberty University features Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Special Education. This 60-credit hour program features three on-campus intensives to allow students to engage with faculty and staff and build relationships with peers. A six-credit hour dissertation is also required as part of the program and requires an on-campus dissertation defense. As part of the program, students learn to use a variety of technology resources to enhance classroom instruction. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of positions including researcher, school administrator, and university professor.

#6 – Walden University – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Doctor of education (ed.d.) with a specialization in special education.

Accreditation : NCATE Walden University offers an online Ed.D. with a specialization in Special Education that can be completed in two years of study. This 76-quarter hour program includes one three-day, face-to-face residency to allow students to meet with faculty members, share experiences with peers, and work directly with support staff. Students complete two courses every 11 weeks once they have completed the Foundation course. Coursework focuses on real-world case scenarios that are meant to challenge current attitudes and beliefs. A capstone project focused on impacting positive social change is required at the completion of the program.

#5 – University of Colorado – Denver, Colorado

Doctor of education, leadership for educational equity (ed.d.) with a concentration in early childhood special education/early childhood education.

Accreditation : NCATE The Doctor of Education, Leadership for Educational Equity program at the University of Colorado features an innovative concentration in Early Childhood Special Education. The program is ideal for practitioners who want to support young children by improving outcomes. Students will be prepared to work in administrative roles within school districts and organizations and provide leadership and guidance. The program features both a three-year and a five-year track. The three-year track follows a cohort model, with students taking two courses each semester. The five-year track is a more flexible option for working professionals. Students take courses year round and move in and out of different cohorts.

#4 – Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Accreditation : NCATE Nova Southeastern University offers an Ed.D. with a specialization in Special Education designed for professionals who want to pursue a career as a professor, administrator, or service provider. Students work with a full-time faculty member to create their own individualized program of study that meets their personal and professional goals. While coursework can be completed online, students are required to attend a Summer Institute on campus. The online program allows students to continue in their current employment without needing to relocate to complete their Ed.D. Concentrations are also available in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis.

#3– West Virginia University – Morgantown, West Virginia

Special education doctoral degree ed.d. online.

Accreditation : NCATE The online Special Education Doctoral Degree program from West Virginia University prepares students for an exciting career working as special education faculty members at the college level. The program follows a cohort model, with courses beginning in the fall semester. Coursework can be completed entirely online. Students engage with faculty and peers through interactive, live sessions. Online students pay the same low in-state tuition rate regardless of their location. Admission to the program is selective and students need to have at least two years of public school teaching experience working with individuals with exceptionalities.

#2 – Concordia University – Chicago, Illinois

Special education leadership, ed.d./ph.d..

Accreditation : NCATE Concordia University in Chicago features a Special Education Leadership Ph.D. or Ed.D. The Special Education Leadership PhD program is a 67-credit hour research track program that features coursework in research design, quantitative research, survey design, statistics, and qualitative research. The 61-credit hour Special Education Leadership Ed.D. program is a practitioner track program with courses dedicated to special education leadership and advocacy. Courses are offered 100% online, with no on campus residency required. Students complete a comprehensive examination and dissertation to demonstrate the knowledge and skills attained from the program.

#1 – Northcentral University – Prescott Valley, Arizona

Accreditation : TEAC Northcentral University offers a Doctor of Education degree with a specialization in Special Education with no required on-campus residency. An innovative 1:1 teaching method is used to help students achieve their personal and professional goals. Faculty are experienced in the field and all faculty have earned their doctorate degree. Coursework covers court and legal cases related to special education, federal mandates, case studies, and application of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in school administration or in a college disability office helping special education students.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can look forward to career opportunities as faculty members, directors of special education, health services managers, state or federal grant coordinators or school psychologist supervisors.

Be sure to also read:

• Top 20: Ranking the Best Online Master’s in Special Education Programs
• 5 Important Special Education Laws
• What is the Difference Between a Ph.D in Special Education and an Ed.D.?
• 5 Trends in Educational Research
• Is an Online Ph.D. in Special Education Worth it?
• What are Residency Requirements for a Ph.D. in Special Education?

Best Online Doctorate in Special Education Programs

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Did you know that if you choose to pursue an online doctorate in special education, you can help serve the more than 7 million students in special education programs across the United States? While not all graduates with this degree work directly with special education students, you can apply your specialized knowledge in college classrooms and leadership roles.

This page examines online doctorate in special education program offerings. We also review admission requirements and career prospects, while spotlighting the traits of quality doctoral programs .

Best Accredited Online Doctorate in Special Education Programs

Liberty university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $14,791
• Out-of-state $14,791
• In-State $7,935
• Out-of-state $7,935
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 50%
• Students Enrolled 93,349
• Institution Type Private

Concordia University-Chicago

• In-State $32,660
• Out-of-state $32,660
• In-State $9,090
• Out-of-state $9,090
• Retention Rate 71%
• Acceptance Rate 79%
• Students Enrolled 6,491

Drexel University

• In-State $53,868
• Out-of-state $53,868
• In-State $36,234
• Out-of-state $36,234
• Retention Rate 88%
• Acceptance Rate 77%
• Students Enrolled 23,589

Hampton University

• In-State $26,198
• Out-of-state $26,198
• In-State $13,099
• Out-of-state $13,099
• Retention Rate 72%
• Acceptance Rate 36%
• Students Enrolled 3,516

Regent University

• In-State $17,220
• Out-of-state $17,220
• In-State $15,552
• Out-of-state $15,552
• Retention Rate 77%
• Students Enrolled 10,483

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies .

What Can I Expect From an Online Doctorate in Special Education Program?

Whether you want to work in academia or in an administrative role in a public school, an online doctorate in special education equips you to with core skills in special education and disability advocacy.

Graduate school students pursuing an online doctorate in special education usually seek either a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. Those tackling the research-heavy Ph.D. in special education typically go on to work in higher education teaching and research roles. If you want to develop the leadership skills required for administrative roles, you might prefer a management-focused Ed.D.

Special education doctoral students typically complete 60-75 credits and graduate in 3-5 years. Depending on program format, you can complete online coursework either synchronously or asynchronously. Distance learning often allows the flexibility to complete course requirements while keeping up with personal and professional responsibilities.

In addition to core academic requirements, you can dedicate time to various academic concentrations. Specializations offerings may include applied behavioral analysis, early intervention, and autism.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Special Education Degree?

An online doctorate in education can lead to a career at a university or as a school system leader.

Public school principals earn a median annual salary of over $100,000. And top-earning administrators can earn more than $150,000 per year. Common careers for special education doctoral grads include higher education, primary and secondary education, research, and special education advocacy roles.

A doctorate in special education can open up a variety of career opportunities. Learn more about special education careers .

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Special Education Programs

Is a doctorate in special education worth it.

Yes. Whether you’re pursuing a career in academia or leadership roles in public education, an online doctorate in special education can increase career options and earning potential. Online learning opportunities allow you to earn your degree while keeping up with personal and professional obligations.

Online doctoral students tackle essential special education topics while honing research skills in collaborative environments. You leverage your studies in education leadership roles and when advocating for special education policies.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in special education online?

Most students can complete their online doctorate in special education in 3-5 years. You hone your research and writing skills and tackle coursework on topics including low-incidence instruction, emotional and behavioral disorders, and special education history and policy.

In addition to more traditional coursework, you’ll complete a dissertation. You’ll work closely with dissertation advisors to craft original, publishable pieces of research.

What are the highest paying jobs with a doctorate in special education?

For graduates with a doctorate in special education, the highest paying jobs are typically leadership, management, and administrative roles. School superintendents, primary and secondary school principals, and postsecondary administrators all earn median salaries approaching or exceeding six figures.

In addition to leadership roles, you can expand your career options and earning potential through academic specializations, postgraduate certificates, and networking opportunities.

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Top 10 Doctorate in Special Education Online Degree Programs for 2024

Find your perfect school.

Author: Brenda Rufener Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson Reading level: Grade 10 Reading time: 11 minutes, 14 seconds Original Publication Date: May 2019 Updates: 5

Key Takeaways:

• The University of the Cumberlands is our #1 ranking school for the top doctorate in special education, followed by Texas Tech University .
• Before pursuing a doctorate in special education, consider your career goals, interests, and strengths, and research potential programs to find the one that best aligns with your aspirations.
• Career opportunities include academic research and teaching, school administration, program development and evaluation, policy and advocacy.

This article profiles the top 10 online doctorate in special education programs .

Featured Programs

Special education teachers and specialists work with:

• organizations

They work to meet the unique needs of those with:

• physical disabilities

With an online doctorate in special education, individuals may pursue careers as a:

• special education teacher
• early intervention specialist
• special education advocate
• special education administrator

Top 10 Online Doctorate in Special Education Methodology

First, we looked at 45 colleges and universities listed by the NCES College Navigator. These schools have online PhDs in special education and closely related programs. Then, the initial pool of schools was narrowed by applying the following criteria:

• Accreditation from regional or national governing bodies
• School or program rankings from at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report
• Affordable graduate tuition and fees

Finally, we listed our top 10 programs according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 10 PhD in special education online, or closely related degree programs.

Best PhD Special Education Online Programs Reviewed

#1 – university of the cumberlands, williamsburg, kentucky, online edd in educational leadership.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees : $4,582

The option from the University of the Cumberlands is not a specialized PhD in the special education program. The online EdD in educational leadership does offer courses in:

• Program Planning and Teaching
• Learning within the confines of special ed
• Gifted Learning

What is appealing about this degree is the online option for individuals interested in special education or leadership roles within education. Courses are delivered online and include:

• Higher Education in America
• Leadership in Historical Context
• Program Planning and Assessment

Admission requires a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a GPA of 3.5 or better. In the event the cumulative GPA is above 3.75, the GRE requirement may be waived. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of the Cumberlands #230-#301 among the best national universities.

Also, the online graduate education programs rank #115 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

• A wide range of graduate program offerings
• Nationally high ranked graduate school in 2023
• High student-to-faculty ratio
• Student retention rate is lower than national average

#2 – Texas Tech University

Lubbock, texas, online phd in special education.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,015

Texas Tech University offers one of the top online Ph.D. programs in special education on our list. It is designed for professional educators. The program prepares students in leadership, evaluation, and program development. Most courses are offered at a distance, but minimal face-to-face meetings may be required.

The program requires 90 credits of which thirty may be transferred. Admission to the program requires a complete application. The application calls for college transcripts showcasing stellar academic performance and official GRE scores. Scores must be no more than five years old at the time of application.

Texas Tech is accredited and ranked. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #187 in best national universities and #100 in top public institutions. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #89 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

• Excellent student support services
• Average student debt upon graduation is lower than national average
• TAs teach a large amount of classes

#3 – University of Colorado

Denver, colorado, online edd in leadership and educational equity.

Website In-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $8,548 Out-of-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $24,820

Those looking for an accredited PhD in special education may be interested in the University of Colorado’s online EdD programs. Two tracks are offered in the online EdD:

• Educational Equity

They blend both online and face-to-face classes. Students may elect the three-year or five-year program. Also, several concentration areas, including early childhood special education, are offered. Admission requires:

• Graduate work with a 3.2 GPA
• Five or more years of experience in an educational setting
• Strong interest in educational practice

U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Colorado #205 in best national universities and #112 in top public schools. Also, the online graduate programs rank #126 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

• Great research opportunities
• Diverse student population
• Intense and demanding academics
• Funding cuts to some student/campus resources have been reported

#4 – Liberty University

Lynchburg, virginia, online edd in special education.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,405

Several options are available at Liberty University for individuals seeking an PhD in special education program online. The school offers online EdD programs in several areas of education. Specifically, in special education, an online EdD is offered in curriculum and instruction.

This doctoral degree leads to an EdD in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in special ed. Courses are delivered online and include:

• Advanced Learning Theory and Research
• Behavior Management
• Educational Assessments for Special Needs
• Organization and Design of Gifted Education Programs

Admission for doctoral students requires applicants to hold a regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Liberty is a private institution that upholds Christian ideals. The school ranks #230-#301 in best national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

• A tuition freeze
• High retention rate
• A low four-year graduation rate
• Administrative scandals have been reported

#5 – University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, mississippi, online phd in education – special education.

Website –  No longer available. In-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $9,450 Out-of-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $11,450

The University of Southern Mississippi has a doctoral in special education online program. It requires a minimum of 54-69 hours (plus the dissertation) past the master’s degree. The PhD in education program emphasizes teacher education, research, and community services.

Students gain knowledge and skills specific to education and special education. Once classes are complete and research is well underway, students nearing the end of the program take a comprehensive examination. The exam is usually taken during or after the last semester of coursework.

Admission to the program requires, at a minimum, an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Southern Mississippi #230-#301 in best national universities.

• High academic and professional standards
• Great research facilities
• Some administration issues have been reported

#6 – Concordia University

River forest, illinois, online edd/phd in leadership – special education.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,705

One of the top online EdD in special education programs on our list is offered by Concordia University. It’s for those who want to be scholars, researchers, or educators in leadership in special education. In addition to classes, a dissertation and comprehensive examination are required. Some of the online courses include:

• Current Issues and Trends in Special Education
• International Perspectives in Special Education
• Special Education Law and Policy
• Supervision of Programs for Children with Disabilities

U.S. News and World Report rank Concordia #72 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #44 in best value schools. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #132 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

• Great community engagement
• A variety of internship opportunities
• Limited research opportunities
• Limited job prospects compared to larger universities

#7 – Ball State University

Muncie, indiana.

Website In-State Graduate Tuition/Fees : $11,642 Out-of-State Tuition/Fees:  $28,340

The online EdD in special education program at Ball State University is another unique offering. It is designed to prepare individuals to serve in leading educational and behavioral professions. The program consists of a series of core special education courses with an option to emphasize studies in one or more areas of focus. Specialized focus areas include:

• Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism
• Low or High Incidence Teaching and Learning
• Teaching and Learning in Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Degree candidates complete a 15-credit residency, a comprehensive examination, and a dissertation before graduation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Ball State #171 in best national universities and #91 in top public schools.

• Student debt upon graduation is lower than the national average
• A wide variety of academic programming
• TAs teach a high number of classes

#8 – Indiana University

Bloomington, indiana, online edd in literacy, culture, and language education.

Website In-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $11,468 Out-of-State Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $33,367

Indiana University offers a highly specialized literacy doctoral program. This unique program might appeal to those considering an online PhD in special education. The program can be completed online, emphasizing literacy, culture, and language education. It is ideal for reading and language specialists working with exceptionalities. A series of core courses are required, including:

• Issues in Literacy and Language Education – Early Inquiry Experience
• Research Seminar on Literacy
• Theoretical Issues in the Study of Language and Literacies

Admission requires a minimum of an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. U.S. News and World Report rank Indiana University #89 in best national universities and #120 in best value schools.

• Acceptance rate is much higher than the national average
• Endowment increases have been reported
• Student debt upon graduation is higher than national average

#9 – Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, arizona, online edd in organizational leadership – special education.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees : $11,638

Grand Canyon University have an online doctorate in special education. The program provides training and research to help students become leaders in this unique field of education. A total of 60 credits satisfy degree requirements. Courses are delivered online and taught by GCU professors. These classes include:

• Analysis of Existing Research
• Ethical Dilemmas and Stewardship
• Foundations of Special Education
• Progressions in Leadership Thought
• Special Education Law

Doctoral residencies are also required for the degree. U.S. News and World Report ranks GCU among the top national universities. In fact, the most recent publication ranks the school #230-#301 in best national universities. Also, several graduate programs have received top rankings and recognition.

• Flexibility of online programming
• Affordability
• Internships and practicums can be a challenge to schedule
• Some student resources are underfunded

#10 – Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd valley, pennsylvania, online edd in leadership – special education.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees : $15,642

Gwynedd Mercy University offers an online EdD in special education program. It is designed for working professionals seeking supervisory roles within the education systems. Degree candidates will:

• Take online courses
• Complete a practicum
• Complete the dissertation requirements to earn the EdD in leadership with a special education concentration

Some of the required courses include:

• Administration and Supervision of Special Education programs
• Cross-Cultural Perspectives and Educational Leadership
• School Law and Policy in Special Education

Gwynedd Mercy is ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #142-#187 in best regional universities in the North.

• Available in accelerated format
• Flexible programming
• Some issues with communication with graduate faculty have been reported

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with an online doctorate in special education.

Special education teachers work directly with students with various emotional, learning, mental, or physical disabilities. However, careers for individuals with an online doctorate in special education vary. With an online doctorate in special education, individuals are prepared for:

• Academic Appointments
• Policy Making
• School Administration

All special education graduates offer passion and preparedness in advocating for those with exceptionalities. Special education doctoral students should be patient, caring, and creative on the job, as well as personally. These qualifications, along with adequate schooling, prepare you for careers in special education.

Some of the common professions for individuals with online doctorate in special education degrees include:

• Instructional Specialists
• Provosts and Academic Deans
• Public Policy Researchers
• Special Education Teachers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, educational jobs are expected to increase over the next several years. Job opportunities in specific specialties, such as gifted learning or autism, may be better than others. This is due to certain school districts and states allocating resources to heighten awareness. As federal laws change, the hiring of specialists may be impacted. Funding issues and employment layoffs due to budget cuts will impact special education jobs in school districts, but academia will likely not be impacted.

What is the job outlook for individuals with an online doctorate in special education?

The BLS reports the overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow eight percent through 2026. That’s about as fast as the eight percent average for all occupations. However, postsecondary teachers will see a much faster than average growth rate.

In fact, BLS reports the overall employment of postsecondary teachers will grow 15 percent over the next seven years. This percentage is almost double the growth rate for special education teachers.

Enrollment is the biggest factor impacting growth. Community colleges, four-year institutions, and school districts will see increasing enrollment numbers in their student populations. At the community college level, employment growth will likely be in part-time positions and adjunct instructor jobs, while school districts will hire full-time teachers.

Within school districts, teacher replacement impacts hiring. As teachers retire, new teachers must replace those leaving the occupation. Also, particularly in special education, teaching students with disabilities can be stressful.

Some teachers choose to leave the classroom and return to school for advanced training. These teachers may not return to the classroom but choose to pursue careers in policy or administration.

The overall job outlook for individuals with adequate training is favorable. Individuals with unique training and an online doctorate in special education will have the best chances for stable employment.

How much money will I make with an online doctorate in special education?

According to PayScale, a global compensation research organization, the average pay for special education teachers is $48,027. The highest earners (top ten percent) receive pay in excess of $70,000 annually. Most individuals with a doctorate in special education do not work as school teachers, but hold careers as educational consultants, policy advocates, or professors.

Salaries vary by professions. Educational consultants earn $61,094 on average with the top 10 percent earning $103,000 per year. Postsecondary professors earn $86,577 on average with the highest earners bringing in $156,000 annually. Of course, discipline and institution impact professor earnings.

According to PayScale, the average earnings of an assistant professor of education is $63,862. Associate professors earn $73,511, and professors earn $86,192 on average.

Administrators and directors in special education earn competitive salaries. Most work in school districts as administrators or for local and government agencies. The average director of special education salary, according to PayScale, is $73,846.

Pay by experience for director of special education occupations has a positive trend. This means the more experience a director of special education has, the more money they will likely earn. For example, PayScale reports the entry-level director with less than five years of experience earns $63,000 annually while a director with five to ten years of experience earns $67,000 annually.

Employers often value education as experience. This means the more education you have, the higher your earning potential.

What are the admission requirements for online doctorate in special education programs from top-ranked schools?

Online doctorate in special education program admission requirements vary by institution. The highly selective programs on our list require that doctoral students have more than an undergraduate degree and completed application.

In fact, top-tier institutions ask for competitive undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or better, qualifying GRE or GMAT test scores, and two to three letters of recommendation from individuals attesting to the applicant’s research potential.

At a minimum, the schools on our list require that doctoral students earned bachelor’s in education and, in some cases, earned master’s degrees from regionally or nationally accredited colleges or universities. GPA requirements vary, but most programs ask for undergraduate GPAs of 3.0 or better. When master’s degrees are required for admission, GPAs should also reflect stellar performance. Most programs asking for an earned master’s from an accredited institution require a 3.5 GPA.

GRE scores are not the norm across admission’s boards. Programs, especially those with top rankings, will ask for competitive GRE scores. Graduate exams should be taken within the last five years. In fact, most programs will not accept GRE scores taken outside this timeframe.

Additional requirements for PhD in special education programs online include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or goals, and writing samples. Most applications may be completed online. Applications do require a fee. These fees vary slightly by school.

How long does it take to earn a doctorate in special education online?

Time to completion for a PhD in special education program online varies by schools and programs. According to our research, many of the doctoral programs take three to five years to earn an online PhD in special education. However, certain factors impact completion time.

The first factor impacting completion time is enrollment. Full-time and part-time enrollment will either shorten or lengthen the time spent earning a doctoral degree. While part-time programs offer flexibility, the program will take additional time. On the other hand, full-time programs allow students to earn their degree in record time.

Working professionals may find benefits of part-time programs helpful when balancing family with career obligations. However, there is value in finishing your PhD in special education quickly. A three-year program means that in three years, your earning potential will rise. In a five-year program, students will be in school for two additional years, which can impact earnings.

Most of the PhD in special education online programs on our list offer both part-time and full-time enrollment options. Some programs even offer students flexible enrollment each semester. This means degree candidates may enroll as part-time students one semester and full-time students the next.

In addition, flexible enrollment benefits working and busy students and provide them with more freedom while earning their degree.

Additional Resources:

• Doctorate Degree Online
• EdD Online Programs
• Doctorate Educational Leadership Online
• Online Doctorate Training and Development
• Online Doctorates in Early Childhood Education
• Online PhD Programs in Psychology

This concludes our list of the top 10 online doctorates in special education programs.