The major distinguishing characteristic of this option is the application of supervisory theory to the context of the special education of exceptional children and youth. Specific emphasis is placed upon activities, relationships, facilities, agencies, persons, and processes that are peculiar to or have particular relevance to special education. The student completes a Plan of Studies of a minimum of 27 credits encompassing such courses as supervision, curriculum development, current and legal issues in the specialization, and a supervision seminar associated with the internship. These specializations are designed to accommodate individualized professional goals but do not provide students with special education certification. The major goal of the Special Education PhD and Ed.
D degrees is the preparation of leadership personnel.
Graduates must have leadership skills to identify the significant issues of the day and the ability to make decisions about the most effective use of new technologies and information to serve the nation's disabled population. They will also become researchers and scholars committed to furthering the knowledge and empirical base needed for enhancement of special education practice and of the training of special education personnel. Graduates will serve infants, children, youth, and adults with disabilities through roles as teacher educators, researchers, administrators, consultants, and supervisors. Students complete either a PhD or Ed. D in Special Education with a particular emphasis in learning disabilities, deaf and hard of hearing, vision studies, orientation and mobility, or early intervention.