REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF SCIENCE
Students who enter the Ph.D. program without a master's degree may earn a M.S. degree in passing while working on their Ph.D. The thesis-based M.S. degree requires 36 total hours, including a minimum of 24 formal, didactic hours, with specific coursework determined by the student and faculty advisor.
RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT OF RESEARCH (RCR) REQUIREMENT
Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training and SPED 8100, 8200, 8300 or 8810
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
The Ph.D. degree is composed of 72 credit hours, including 36 formal, didactic credit hours which must be completed at Vanderbilt-Peabody's Department of Special Education (the remainder may be transferred in from the student's master's study). Three major elements of coursework are emphasized: core studies in special education, including nine hours of proseminar in special education and one course in leadership within the special education field; at least 12 formal course hours in research methods; and a 15-hour minor or related area of study completed through electives approved in consultation with the student's advisor. The program of study will be planned individually with the major professor. In addition, the program requires demonstration of competence in research methods, in college teaching, and in supervision.