Unlocking Leadership in Special Education: The Doctorate for Transformational Change

Special Education MA EDD Blog Header Image

Leadership in special education requires vision, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges students, families, and educators face. Kent State University’s Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Interprofessional Leadership with a concentration in Special Education is specifically designed for those who aspire to drive change, foster inclusion, and advocate for systemic improvement in special education settings.

Special Education Concentration: Preparing Leaders for Meaningful Impact

The Special Education concentration within the Ed.D. program equips professionals with the skills to lead inclusive practices, influence policy, and create sustainable change. This concentration is ideal for educators, administrators, and advocates passionate about advancing equity and accessibility in special education.

Students explore advanced topics, including:

  • Leadership in Special Education: Develop strategies to inspire teams, manage programs, and implement inclusive practices.
  • Policy and Advocacy: Gain a comprehensive understanding of laws and policies shaping special education and learn how to influence meaningful reform.
  • Interprofessional Collaboration: Work across disciplines to design and implement solutions that address diverse learner needs.
  • Research and Evaluation: Conduct data-driven research to assess programs and advocate for evidence-based changes.

The Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership: A Collaborative Approach to Leadership

Kent State’s Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership is a 100% online program designed for working professionals from diverse backgrounds. The program’s interdisciplinary nature encourages collaboration across fields such as education, healthcare, and public administration, fostering innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Key features of the Ed.D. program include:

  • Customizable Concentrations: Tailor your doctorate with concentrations in Special Education, Leadership in Higher Education, or Individualized Study.
  • 100% Online Flexibility: Balance your studies with your career and personal commitments.
  • Three-Year Completion: Finish your doctorate efficiently while maintaining your professional responsibilities.
  • Capstone Project: Focus on a real-world problem of practice in your field, demonstrating your ability to lead and innovate.

Graduates of the Ed.D. program are prepared for leadership roles in educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and more.

For Those New to Special Education Leadership: The M.Ed. in Special Education

If you’re new to special education or looking to build a strong foundation before pursuing an advanced degree, Kent State also offers a 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education. This program prepares students to:

  • Develop Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of special education practices, policies, and instructional strategies.
  • Lead Inclusively: Learn how to create equitable learning environments that support all students.
  • Prepare for Advanced Study: Build a strong foundation for doctoral-level work in leadership and advocacy.

The M.Ed. program includes concentrations tailored to specific areas of interest, such as Deaf Education, Early Childhood Intervention, and General Special Education.

Why Choose Kent State Online?

Kent State University is a leader in online education, offering flexible, high-quality programs designed for working professionals. Whether you’re advancing your career with the M.Ed. in Special Education or stepping into a leadership role with the Ed.D., you’ll benefit from:

  • Experienced Faculty: Learn from experts who bring real-world insights to the virtual classroom.
  • Collaborative Learning: Connect with peers and faculty from diverse fields and backgrounds.
  • Practical Applications: Apply what you learn to real-world challenges, making an immediate impact in your field.

Start Your Journey Toward Leadership Today

Whether you’re looking to enhance your expertise with a master’s degree or step into a leadership role with a doctorate, Kent State Online offers the programs and support to help you succeed.

Learn more about the Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership with a Special Education concentration, the M.Ed. in Special Education, and how Kent State can help you achieve your goals:

Take the next step toward a transformative career in special education leadership today!

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

The editorial team at Kent State Online is composed of dedicated professionals with expertise in higher education, digital marketing, and content strategy. Our mission is to create insightful, engaging, and informative content that empowers prospective students to make informed decisions about advancing their education and careers.
Latest Blogs
In the world of sports, athletes are often celebrated for their physical strength, endurance, and determination. However, beneath the surface, many athletes face significant mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and performance-related stress. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding mental health in sports has made it difficult for athletes to seek the help they need.
Educational technology has become an essential tool in transforming how we teach, learn, and lead. From K-12 classrooms to higher education and corporate training environments, technology is reshaping education, creating opportunities to improve outcomes and foster innovation. At the heart of this transformation are leaders who understand how to effectively implement and leverage these tools to make meaningful change.
Starting your journey as a special education teacher is both exciting and challenging. You are stepping into a role that requires patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs and continuous professional learning. Unlike general education, special education requires individualized instruction, collaboration with various professionals, and the ability to adapt to students’ ever-changing needs. Your work will be crucial in shaping students’ academic success, social development, and overall well-being.
Explore Our Online Programs
Find a Program
Online Minors
Online Non-Degree Graduate Licensure Programs
Get Started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Center for Adult Veteran Services
Approximately 1,500 international students from 100 countries are enrolled at Kent State University. We’re excited to have you join us, and our international admission team is here to help you every step of the way.
About Kent State Online
Contact Us
Tuition and Costs
Meet Our Faculty
Contact Us