Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GRE required for admission?
We no longer require GRE scores for admission to the UF special education Ed.D. program.
Who is this program for?
What are the admissions requirements?
Successful applicants are established special education professionals and leaders committed to enacting change within their local context.
Applicants must provide three letters of recommendation, a curriculum vitae and an academic writing sample. Applicants must also complete a structured statement of purpose via Qualtrics. Finally, applicants may be asked to participate in an admission interview, which may be held in person or via teleconference.
An admissions committee reviews all application materials to determine whether the applicant is a good match for the program’s goal and purpose.
The GRE is no longer required for this program.
For complete information on the admissions process, please visit the program’s Application Instructions.
Are there times I will need to travel to UF?
UF no longer requires students to come to campus for qualifying exams or the dissertation defense. However, students do have the option to attend the Doctoral Commencement Ceremony face-to-face in Gainesville, FL. This ceremony includes the traditional doctoral “hooding” ceremony. Attendance is not required to graduate, but many students opt for this special experience.
How long does it take to complete the program?
Is financial aid available?
What are the course requirements?
The special education Ed.D.is a four-year program requiring a minimum of 90 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree (up to 30 credits of previous relevant master’s coursework may apply).
Students must complete the five required special education courses, required research methodology courses, coursework in the student’s area(s) of specialization and dissertation credits.
- Core courses: 15 credits
- Research methodology courses: at least 12 credits
- Specialization courses: at least 12 credits (varies by specialization)
- Dissertation work: 20 credits
What is the difference between the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. in Special Education?
How much does it cost?
Can I transfer credits from another university?
Grades in courses must be a B or better to be eligible for transfer. Transfer credits are more likely to be accepted when they have been earned recently, are from an accredited institution and are clearly related to your current program.
Graduate credits earned at other institutions must be approved by your program and then by the Graduate School after admission. Students can only apply up to nine credits toward their master’s degree and up to 30 credits toward their doctorate. You will be asked to provide the course name and number, course description and proof of your grade. In some cases, advisors may also ask to see syllabi.
Up to 15 credits of graduate-level coursework earned at UF with a B or better letter grade may be applied toward a graduate degree at UF. This is only possible if credit for the course has not contributed to an undergraduate degree and if the academic unit and the Graduate School approve the transfer. This process starts once a student is admitted.