Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's online Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in Special Education is offered in a Knowledge Area Module (KAM) format and a mixed-model format. The mixed-model format is more structured than the KAM format and is balanced between individual research interests and online course requirements. The KAM option allows you to pursue research topics in-depth with the aid of a faculty member. Regardless of which format you choose, you have an opportunity to learn about the theories and principles of human learning, diversity in special education, the legal and moral aspects of special education, learning and instruction, and leadership in a global society.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you apply to Walden University's Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in Special Education, you should have some experience in the field of education and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Additionally, it is beneficial to have strong writing and critical-thinking skills. Most of Walden University's doctoral programs require a master's degree or higher and three years of related academic or professional experience. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. To earn Walden University's Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in Special Education, you must complete 96 credits. The degree program for both the KAM and mixed-model formats is divided into foundational courses, specialized KAMs, research courses, a research proposal, a dissertation, and oral presentations. You must also complete four Ph.D. residencies (totaling 16 credits minimum). The mixed-model format requires an additional six core courses, while the KAM format requires two additional KAMs, consisting of three courses each.

KAM Format Curriculum:

Foundation Courses

• Development of the Scholar-Practitioner
• Principles of Social Change
• Social Change in Education
• KAM II: Principles of Human Development
  • Breadth: Theories of Human Development
  • Depth: Current Research in Human Exceptionality
  • Application: Professional Practice and Human Exceptionality
• KAM III:
  • Breadth: Theories of Organizational and Social Systems
  • Depth: Individuals With Special Needs: Social, Legal, Political, and Economic Systems in Context
  • Application: Professional Issues in Organizations and Systems: Special Education

Specialized KAMs

• KAM V: Theories of Learning, Motivation, and Intelligence; and Implications for Persons With Special Needs
  • Breadth: Theories and Principles of Human Learning and the Human Side of Exceptionalities
  • Depth: Educators as Facilitators of Inclusive Learning in Varied Educational Environments
  • Application: Educational Practice Grounded in Principles/Theories of Learning, Diversity, and Inclusion
• KAM VI: Institutional Contexts for Special Education: Leadership, Learning, and Accommodation
  • Breadth: Diversity and Exceptionality in Special Education: Leading Within Learning Organizations
  • Depth: Due Process in Special Education: Legal and Moral Implications
  • Application: Practical Issues in Placement and Service Delivery

Core Research Sequence

• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

Advanced Research Courses: Students choose one.

• Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis

Dissertation

• Dissertation

Mixed-Model Format Curriculum:

Foundation Courses

• Development of the Scholar-Practitioner
• Principles of Social Change
• Social Change in Education

Core Courses

• The Learner Across the Lifespan
• Learning and Instruction
• Assessment and Accountability in Education
• Leadership in a Global Society
• Educational Organizations and Contexts
• Innovation and Change in Education

Specialized KAMs

• KAM V: Theories of Learning, Motivation, and Intelligence; and Implications for Persons With Special Needs
  • Breadth: Theories and Principles of Human Learning and the Human Side of Exceptionalities
  • Depth: Educators as Facilitators of Inclusive Learning in Varied Educational Environments
  • Application: Educational Practice Grounded in Principles/Theories of Learning, Diversity, and Inclusion
• KAM VI: Institutional Contexts for Special Education: Leadership, Learning, and Accommodation
  • Breadth: Diversity and Exceptionality in Special Education: Leading Within Learning Organizations
  • Depth: Due Process in Special Education: Legal and Moral Implications
  • Application: Practical Issues in Placement and Service Delivery

Core Research Sequence

• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

Advanced Research Courses: Students choose one.

• Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Mixed Methods Reasoning and Analysis

Dissertation

• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Once you have finished Walden University's Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in Special Education, you have the opportunity to pursue jobs in the field. Potential employers could include colleges and universities, the public school system, private schools, government agencies, and research and policy institutes. If you plan to enter into education, you should have strong communication and interpersonal skills. Additionally, teaching positions in academia require that job applicants have a desire to conduct research and be published in scholarly education journals. Possible job titles include:

• Professor
• Public school educator
• Researcher
• Education policy analyst

Walden offers both state-approved educator licensure programs as well as programs and courses that do not lead to licensure or endorsements. Prospective students must review their state licensure requirements prior to enrolling. For more information, please refer to www.WaldenU.edu/educlicensure.

Prospective Alabama students: Contact the Teacher Education and Certification Division of the Alabama State Department of Education at 1-334-242-9935 or www.alsde.edu to verify that these programs qualify for teacher certification, endorsement, and/or salary benefits.

Prospective Washington state students are advised to contact the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at 1-360-725-6275 or prof.educ@k12.wa.us to determine whether Walden's programs in the field of education are approved for teacher certification or endorsements in Washington state. Additionally, teachers are advised to contact their individual school district as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.