Education (Special Education) PhD

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education with an emphasis in Special Education is a 66-hour program that prepares teacher education researchers. Participants acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to develop the next generation of special education teachers, while mastering research concepts and skills. The doctoral program focuses on acquiring and developing knowledge in special education, understanding and designing research, and disseminating information.

This program of study meets Mississippi’s state standards for advanced licensure. Students who intend to seek licensure in another state should verify that this program of study meets the desired state’s licensure requirements. For assistance with out-of-state licensure questions, please complete the Professional Licensure Form.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in Academic Requirements and Procedures , applicants must meet the following requirements and submit the following documents:

1. An academic record reflecting a superior grade point average on previous graduate work.
2. Official GRE scores
3. Letters of Recommendation - Three (3) letters of recommendation from professionals in the field of education who are qualified to assess the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
4. Statement of Purpose - In a letter or essay format, describe your professional experiences and goals and how obtaining this degree will help you to realize those goals.
5. A writing sample consisting of a major paper, article, report, etc.
6. CV/Résumé
7. Copy of current educator license

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

See General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information .

Course Requirements (66 hours)

• REF 730 - Qualitative Research in the Social Sciences I 3 hrs.
• REF 731 - Qualitative Research in the Social Sciences II 3 hrs.
• REF 761 - Quantitative Analysis I 3 hrs.
• REF 762 - Quantitative Analysis II 3 hrs.
• REF 889 - The Dissertation Process 3 hrs.
• SPE 600 - Single Subject Research in Educational Settings 3 hrs.
• SPE 691 - Research in Special Education 1-16 hrs.
• SPE 791 - Advanced Research in Special Education 1-16 hrs.
• SPE 792 - Special Problems 3 hrs.
• SPE 800 - Critical Review of Professional Literature 3 hrs.
• SPE 801 - Personnel Preparation in Special Education 3 hrs.
• SPE 803 - Program Evaluation and Grant Writing in Special Education 3 hrs.
• SPE 804 - Research in Special Education 3 hrs.
• SPE 806 - Critical Issues in Special Education 3 hrs.
• SPE 880 - Internship in Teacher Education 1-6 hrs.
• SPE 898 - Dissertation 12 hrs.
• Advisor Approved Electives 9 hrs.