Program Overview

Learning Disabilities & Behavior Disorders Special Education Ph.D.

Program Overview

The doctoral program in Special Education with a concentration in Learning Disabilities & Behavior Disorders focuses on competence, excellence, and leadership. We train you to assume leadership positions in higher education or in public and private education settings.

Program Details

• Program Type: Doctoral Degree
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated Time to Complete: 2-4 years
• Credit Hours: 63

Program Requirements

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.

Marketable Skills

• Synthesize empirical literature for research trends
• Critically evaluate existing research
• Design/conduct methodologically rigorous research
• Evaluate special education programs/personnel
• Apply knowledge for educational/social policy-making

Program Highlights

• UNT's College of Education is one of Texas' top producers of teachers, administrators, counselors, and other school professionals.
• The rigorous curriculum allows you to participate in formal coursework, independent study, internships, practicums, and dissertation research.
• As you progress through the program, you can enroll in specialized coursework focusing on autism intervention, emotional/behavioral disorders, or mild/moderate disabilities.
• The College of Education is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, which means we meet or exceed strict academic standards for excellence in education.
• The Department of Educational Psychology is affiliated with various centers, providing research and professional development opportunities for faculty and students.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Ph.D. program typically assume positions in institutions of higher education and leadership roles in public and private schools.

Sample Courses

• Advanced Studies in Evidence-Based Practices in High and Low Incidence Disabilities (3 hrs)
• Special Education and Public Policy (3 hrs)
• Advanced Program Evaluation (3 hrs)
• Advanced Studies in Learning Disabilities and Emotional/Behavior Disorders (3 hrs)
• Literacy Research for Special Populations (3 hrs)
• Analysis of Trends, Issues, and Research in Special Education (3 hrs)