Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Early Childhood Special Education
Walden University

Program Details

As more children require early intervention and special education services, there is an increasing demand for college faculty who can prepare the next wave of educators in the early childhood special education field. This specialization positions educators to advance in this growing field and to conduct continued research on best practices for early intervention. Informed by the Council for Exceptional Children’s advanced professional early childhood preparation standards, this specialization’s curriculum enables you to explore key research issues, such as leadership and policy, program development and assessment, collaboration, evidence-based practices in early intervention, and ethical practice. Coursework focuses on identifying and addressing gaps in research to increase the effectiveness of early childhood special educators. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the trends and issues impacting early childhood special education today. Using real-world case-study scenarios, you engage in collaborative problem solving and investigate and implement research-based strategies to master program outcomes. At the conclusion of this program, you will complete a dissertation focused on effecting positive social change in early childhood special education.

Learning Pace

Institution-Paced

% Online

Mostly Online

School Accreditation & Licensing

Walden University is accredited by:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Program Requirements & Restrictions

Minimum Education

Master Degree

Application Requirements

Official College Transcript(s), Additional Materials May Be Required

Additional Info

  • This program requires four residencies.

Restricted States

New York, Rhode Island