PhD In Special Education (Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education)

PhD in Special Education About

PhD Special Education deals with the study of research technologies and techniques and a thorough knowledge of Special Educational research of literature. It is a 3 to 5-year doctorate degree course that focuses on the basic understanding of ethics and planning of Special Educational research, literature review, sampling, tools, techniques, research on phenomenology, ethnographic research etc.

Candidates who want to get a specialization in Special Education and have research-oriented technical expertise with an ability to solve key problems and have a thorough understanding on research issues can choose a PhD Special Education course for their higher degree. Candidates who have completed postgraduate Special Education in Special Education stream are eligible for the course.

They must have passed their examination with at least 55% marks in post-graduation from a recognized university. The PhD Special Education Admission 2022 is done based on both entrance examination and merit basis. CSIR, UGC NET, LPU NEST, etc are some of the entrance examinations conducted for getting admission to the course.

After completing all the eligibility criteria, students get admission to colleges such as LPU, Annamalai University, Christ University, etc. Candidates after completing their course can expect an average salary between INR 3,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 depending upon the job positions you are selecting.

Post completing the PhD Special Education, a candidate can start working as a project fellow, project officer, guest lecturer, professors, lecturer etc in areas such as Special Educational institutions, government research, project handling, research organizations etc with an average salary between INR 4.5 to 11 LPA.

PhD in Special Education Highlights

PhD in Special Education Entrance Exam

• UGC-NET
• CUCET
• LPUNEST

PhD in Special Education Admission Process

Admission to PhD Special Education in India is done through both the entrance exam and on the merit list prepared by some colleges based on the candidate’s postgraduate scores. The admission to the course is mostly done by some entrance examinations conducted both at the national level or the university level followed by a personal interview. The application form for admission to the course is mainly open between April and July every year.

Entrance Exams: Students who are getting admission to the college based on entrance exams must have to appear in the examination. After taking the exam a merit list will be prepared by the college authority to offer admissions. Some may also conduct an interview or counseling process for admission.

Merit-Based: The college or University will prepare a merit list of the candidates who have applied for admission to the course. The merit list will be prepared based on the master's subjects. An interview should be conducted by the university officials.

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Special Education

The eligibility criteria for the PhD Special Education course are given as follows

1. Candidates must have cleared their master's in a relevant stream with a minimum percentage of 55% aggregate marks from a recognized university.
2. Completed postgraduate degrees such as MA in Special Education or M.Ed
3. Candidates must have qualified in PhD entrance exams.
4. At least 50% marks for reserved category (SC, ST, or PWD) candidates

Duration of PhD in Special Education

• The duration of a PhD program in special education varies by institution but typically takes 3-5 years to complete. The program typically includes coursework, research, and a dissertation.

PhD in Special Education Selection Criteria

Admission to a PhD program in special education is competitive, and selection criteria vary by institution.

Some factors that may be considered in the selection process include academic performance, research experience, professional experience, and potential for success in a PhD program.

PhD in Special Education How to Apply

To apply for a PhD program in special education, applicants should start by researching programs and their admission requirements. Applications are typically submitted online and include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require an interview as part of the application process.

PhD in Special Education Application Process

The application process for a PhD program in Special Education typically involves the following steps:

1. Research programs and their admission requirements.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Submit transcripts from all previous institutions attended.
4. Submit test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample.
5. Pay the application fee.

PhD in Special Education Fee Structure

PhD in Special Education Syllabus

1. Quantitative analysis
2. Logistics Research
3. Methodology
4. Retail Merchandising 
5. Computer applications
6. Marketing

PhD in Special Education Job Scope

Career Opportunities After PhD in Special Education

University Faculty: Many PhD graduates in Special Education pursue careers as professors at universities and colleges. They teach courses in special education, conduct research in areas such as inclusive education, disability studies, or interventions for students with disabilities, and publish scholarly articles in academic journals.

Research Institutes: PhD graduates can work in research institutes focused on special education and disability studies. These institutes may be affiliated with universities, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Research positions may involve designing and conducting studies, securing grant funding, analyzing data, and publishing research findings.

School Districts: PhD graduates may work in school districts as special education administrators, curriculum specialists, or program coordinators. They may develop and oversee special education programs, provide professional development training for teachers and staff, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations related to special education services.

Government Agencies: PhD graduates can work for government agencies at the local, state, or federal level in roles related to special education policy, research, or program evaluation. They may contribute to the development of policies and regulations, conduct research on educational practices and outcomes, or evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs.

Non-Profit Organizations: PhD graduates may work for non-profit organizations that focus on advocacy, support services, or research related to individuals with disabilities and their families. Non-profit career opportunities may include program management, policy analysis, fundraising, community outreach, and education and training initiatives.

Consulting: PhD graduates with expertise in special education may work as consultants for school districts, educational organizations, or government agencies. Consulting roles may involve providing expert advice on inclusive practices, conducting program evaluations, developing curriculum materials, or delivering professional development training.

Educational Technology Companies: PhD graduates may work for educational technology companies that develop products and services for students with disabilities. They may contribute to the design and development of accessible learning materials, assistive technologies, or digital platforms for personalized learning.

Advocacy and Legal Services: PhD graduates with knowledge of special education law and policy may work for advocacy organizations or legal firms that represent individuals with disabilities and their families. They may advocate for the rights of students with disabilities, provide legal assistance in special education disputes, or conduct policy analysis and lobbying efforts.

International Development: PhD graduates may work in international development organizations or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support inclusive education initiatives in low- and middle-income countries. They may provide technical assistance, develop educational resources, or conduct research on best practices for inclusive education in diverse cultural contexts.

Entrepreneurship: PhD graduates with entrepreneurial ambitions may start their businesses or social enterprises focused on providing specialized educational services, assistive technologies, or advocacy support for individuals with disabilities. They may develop innovative solutions to address gaps in special education service delivery or improve access to educational opportunities for marginalized populations.

PhD in Special Education Top Colleges

Some top colleges for a PhD in Special Education include:

Admission Process for PhD in Special Education

1. Application for the entrance exam 
2. Result declaration
3. Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
4. Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
5. Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
6. Course work examination
7. Result declaration of coursework
8. Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
9. Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
10. A registration letter shall be issued
11. Research work started by scholar
12. 6 progress reports shall be submitted
13. Soft copy thesis submit
14. plagiarism report check by the university
15. Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
16. After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
17. After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
18. Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Document Required for PhD in Special Education

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About Ph.D. Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.