Special Education
Prospective Students
At UF, we understand that every prospective student has unique preferences and needs. That’s why we offer a range of special education programs and certificates designed to accommodate in-person and online learners. Whether you prefer traditional classroom settings or the flexibility of online education, we have options to suit your schedule and preferences.
Explore our special education programs and certificates today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in this rapidly evolving field.
On-Campus Ph.D.
Doctoral Program
This full-time, on-campus program is crafted to equip scholars for meaningful careers in educational settings. We immerse our Ph.D. students in a rich academic environment and provide ample opportunities for research and teaching. Graduates emerge as leaders who work in academia, agencies and educational institutions alike.
Entry: TBD
Requirements: Master’s degree in a relevant field
Typical Course Load: 9 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time
Application Deadline: December 1
Program Completion: ~4 years
Online Ed.D.
Doctoral Program
The UF online Ed.D. in special education is a CPED-influenced professional practice doctorate. We designed it to prepare graduates for career advancement as service providers, school leaders, professional development facilitators and advocates for individuals with disabilities. The program culminates in an applied dissertation project, supervised by our world-renowned special education faculty.
Entry: Fall
Requirements: Master’s degree in a relevant field
Typical Course Load: 6 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-time
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Completion: 4 years
Online M.Ed.
Master’s Program
Our master’s special education program, Teach Well, is a fully online graduate program for practicing educators. This innovative program equips teachers with the expertise to support students with disabilities in strengths-based classrooms. Our program offers actionable insights and strategies to excel as adaptive educators.
Entry: Fall/Spring/Summer
Requirements: Undergraduate degree
Typical Course Load: 6-9 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time or Part-time
Average Class Size: 15-30
Application Deadline: See dates published by the college
Program Completion: 2 years (full-time)
Online Ed.S.
Specialist Program
Experienced educators looking to deepen their expertise beyond their master’s degree will benefit from the online Teach Well education specialist program. The program is designed for working professionals seeking specialized knowledge with courses structured to accommodate busy schedules.
Entry: Fall/Spring/Summer
Requirements: Undergraduate degree
Typical Course Load: 6-9 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time or Part-time
Average Class Size: 15-30
Application Deadline: See dates published by the college
Program Completion: 2 years (full-time)
Dyslexia
Graduate Certificate
The UF dyslexia certificate is a fully online program for practicing educators and other education professionals. Upon completion, participants are able to conduct and interpret effective literacy assessments, plus design and implement evidence-based literacy interventions for students with dyslexia in K-12 settings. International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) accredited.
Entry: Fall or Spring
Requirements: Bachelor’s or equivalent degree
Typical Course Load: 5 courses
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-time
Average Class Size: 20 students
Application Deadline: June 30 (Fall) or November 22 (Spring)
Program Completion: ~3 semesters
Disabilities in Society
Graduate Certificate
The UF graduate certificate in disabilities in society is a fully online program designed to help students deepen their understanding of the impact of disabilities on individuals and their communities. Participants who complete our certificate work in many fields, as a deeper understanding of disability enriches every career.
Requirements: Bachelor’s or equivalent degree
Typical Course Load: 4 (12 credit hours)
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-time
Average Class Size: Not applicable
Application Deadline: See dates published by the college
Program Completion: 1 to 4 semesters
Disabilities in Society
Undergraduate Minor
The UF disabilities in society minor is available to enrolled undergraduate students across campus. By providing you with a lens to view the unique perspectives and roles of individuals with disabilities in society, this minor will help to shape how you approach your chosen career and involvement in your community.
Entry: Any semester
Requirements: Must be junior status (60+ credits earned) to register for courses.
Course requirements: 5 courses (15 credit hours)
Full-Time/Part-Time: Not applicable
Average Class Size: Not applicable
Program Completion: ~1 year