Amherst,
MA,
United States
Type
Public
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree
PhD in Special Education in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst
University of Massachusetts Amherst
|
Boston United States
Visit institution website
for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD
32,276
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
36 months
The PhD program in special education equips students with comprehensive foundational expertise while offering flexibility to tailor research projects aligned with their academic interests, developed in partnership with faculty advisors. Most doctoral candidates enter with substantial graduate-level training in special education, frequently exceeding 42 credit hours. This specialization builds upon existing knowledge by promoting both broad understanding and specialized focus areas that support long-term research careers beyond doctoral studies. The program maintains compliance with rigorous standards set by national and state accrediting bodies, including the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Such accreditation enhances program reputation, attracts high-quality applicants, and facilitates successful career placements for graduates.
Destination of Study
Subjects of Study
Language Requirements
English
IELTS 6.5
Qualification Requirements
Applicants applying for the PhD degree in Special Education should possess a master's degree in special education or a related area (e.g., psychology, school psychology, communication disorders, school counseling, elementary/secondary education, educational administration) and demonstrate they have met the prerequisite competencies in special education which include the foundations of special education (e.g., laws, policies, and beliefs), assessment, curriculum and instruction in special education, and child development. It is preferred that applicants possess a teaching and/or administrative license from an NCATE-approved program in special education or a related area and at least three years of teaching and/or administrative experience.
Applicants will meet criteria for admission to the Graduate School and admission policies of the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Admission decisions are based on multiple sources of information. College transcripts, work experience, interests, and recommendations are considered in the selection process. Quantitative, verbal, and analytic aptitude, motivation to do well, a specific interest in the field of special education, and likely fit are four characteristics that are evaluated in the selection of potential doctoral students. GRE scores are not required for completion of our application but scores can be submitted optionally and will be considered along with the rest of your application materials.
2 letters of recommendation that evaluate applicant's educational and professional experiences
Personal statement including applicant's interest, skills, and career goals
R'sum
Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
Optional Application Materials
GRE scores
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) - For international applicants.
IELTS - 6.5
TOEFL IBT- 80
Duolingo English Test: Minimum overall score of 115
Applicants will meet criteria for admission to the Graduate School and admission policies of the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Admission decisions are based on multiple sources of information. College transcripts, work experience, interests, and recommendations are considered in the selection process. Quantitative, verbal, and analytic aptitude, motivation to do well, a specific interest in the field of special education, and likely fit are four characteristics that are evaluated in the selection of potential doctoral students. GRE scores are not required for completion of our application but scores can be submitted optionally and will be considered along with the rest of your application materials.
2 letters of recommendation that evaluate applicant's educational and professional experiences
Personal statement including applicant's interest, skills, and career goals
R'sum
Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
Optional Application Materials
GRE scores
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) - For international applicants.
IELTS - 6.5
TOEFL IBT- 80
Duolingo English Test: Minimum overall score of 115
Tuition
USD
32,276