The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Special Education
Admissions
When a prospective student has met general University requirements for admission, his or her application is submitted to the School for evaluation. For admission into the doctoral program in special education, the student must receive a positive recommendation from faculty in the School of Special Education. In addition to an interview with members of the faculty, the School of Special Education requires the submission of:
- a resume;
- a written statement of academic and professional goals; and
- a published or professional writing sample.
The faculty reviews each application for admission to determine evidence of:
- potential for scholarship;
- relevant formal training at the undergraduate and/or graduate level;
- evidence of successful teaching or clinical experience with persons who have exceptionalities for a minimum of two years;
- potential for leadership;
- professional commitment;
- clarity and rationality of professional and personal goals;
- potential for effective university teaching; potential for conceptualization of and reporting research.
Each applicant must receive a positive recommendation from a majority of the Doctoral Admissions and Review Committee faculty to be recommended for admission to the Graduate School.
Residents of Alaska, Arizona, Hawai’i, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, who pursue a doctoral degree in the low-incidence disability areas of blindness, deafness, or significant support needs are eligible for in-state tuition under the Western Regional Graduate Program. Documentation of residency status must be provided to the Graduate School at the time of admission.