Special Education, Ed.D. (Ed.D. Completion Pathway)

Eligible pathway students are required to complete the courses listed at ACE to earn an Ed.D. in Special Education. A total of 37 semester credits are required in the course list. Please note: students who have not completed at least 6 credits in research prior to enrolling at ACE will need to take additional research credits per the Transfer Credit Policy found here.

Program Description

The Ed.D. in Special Education provides an advanced degree specifically targeting research, theory, and best practices in the special education field. A student completes coursework focused on developmentally appropriate practice, advocacy, diversity and research, and scholarship. Students complete a final dissertation at the end of their program. This degree is not designed for licensure and is best suited for individuals who seek to work as a leader or scholar-practitioner in this field. The focus of study allows a student to select a concentration that will support their professional goals. Students will engage in scholarly research throughout the coursework to support their final dissertation. 

Program Outcomes

1. Design and modify general and specialized curricula to increase access and meet the diverse learning needs and developmental growth of students with exceptionalities.  
2. Analyze, synthesize, and apply seminal and current research, pedagogical principles, and assistive technology to support the use of best practices in the special education classroom. 
3. Examine, design, and implement appropriate assessments to minimize bias, support individual student needs, and utilize results for instructional and placement decisions. 
4. Construct models to support positive collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders to improve programs, services, and outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities and their families.
5. Develop strategies to support professional development, leadership, and advocacy efforts in special education. 
6. Examine current trends, laws, and policy in special education and the role that they play in safeguarding the rights of students with exceptionalities. 
7. Demonstrate understanding of cultural, social, and economic diversity and individual learner differences to inform the creation of an inclusive learning environment where all students feel respected and valued and have the resources and support necessary to reach their fullest potential.  

Mission Statement

The mission of the Ed.D. in Special Education is to provide an advanced degree that promotes research, theory, and best practices. Students gain skills to become expert practitioners ready to work with individuals with special needs and their families. Students who complete the program will be prepared to serve as educators, educational consultants, school leaders, professional development providers, and advocates for individuals with disabilities. The Ed.D. in Special Education will culminate in a student designed dissertation that will be supervised by ACE professors who are experts in the field. Graduates will be able to apply the research-based practices honed during the program to improve academic, social and transition outcomes for their students with disabilities.