Special Education Programs

The Special Education Program offers undergraduate and graduate courses leading to bachelor's, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees in special education.

Undergraduate Programs

The general undergraduate program in special education provides students with foundational knowledge and skills for working in non-teaching roles with people who have disabilities.

Undergraduate students in other departments and colleges can minor in Special Education. For more information, tell Student Services (520-621-7865) that you are an undergraduate student interested in a Special Education minor so they can route your inquiry to the best available contact.   

In addition to the general undergraduate program, DPS offers more focus in these undergraduate program(s) and specializations:

• Cross Categorical Teacher Preparation Program
• Deaf Studies/American Sign Language
• Educational Interpreting-Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Graduate Programs in Study Areas

The Special Education Program allows students to attain a deeper understanding in respective aspects of the field by studying specific areas. Thus, DPS offers graduate specializations in these areas and degree options:

• Cross Categorical Special Education - M.A.
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing - M.A.
• Learning Disabilities - M.A., Ed.D., Ph.D.
• Orientation & Mobility - M.A.
• Severe and Multiple Disabilities - M.A., Ed.D., Ph.D.
  
• Verano en Mexico (Summer Education Program)
• Visual Impairment - M.A., Ed.D., Ph.D.
• Gifted and Talented - Ed.D., Ph.D.

Students are required to take a core of classes in special education as well as courses and internships in their area of specialization. Upon graduation, students in teaching areas are eligible for teacher certification in Arizona and may also receive certification from various professional organizations.

Doctoral Programs

At the doctoral level, DPS offers programs that prepare individuals to work in research, administration and college teaching. Each student follows an individualized plan of study. Doctoral students complete internships during which they have the opportunity to conduct research, teach courses, supervise pre-service teachers and engage in consultation projects under faculty guidance.

If a doctoral degree is desired in a study area within Special Education that does not show a doctoral degree as being available, it does not necessarily mean that such a degree can not be pursued. Please inquire about availability by contacting department faculty.

Grants and Financial Aid

Faculty members in the Special Education Program often obtain federal research and personnel preparation grants that support graduate students. Students supported by these grants have the opportunity to obtain stipends, tuition and fee waivers and graduate assistantships.

For more information see the Grant Index.

Jobs

The Special Education Program has earned a national reputation for excellence. Graduates of all DPS's Special Education programs are highly sought after in Arizona and throughout the West and Southwest.

Apply

Want to apply? Please visit the department application page for more information.