Find your degree of interest from one of our many programs of study offered 100% online.
Liberty University's online programs offer you the flexibility to study at your own pace, from your home or office, while retaining a level of structure that will help you stay on track toward achieving your educational goals. You'll receive a quality education - that is both flexible and affordable - from an accredited institution.
Doctor of Philosophy Advanced Educational Studies: Special Education
Build on Your Hard-Earned Ed.D. Credits and Walk Away with a New Ph.D. Credential
Completing your Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) was an enormous achievement, and your desire to keep exploring the full scope of the field may be leading you toward a new academic challenge. Liberty University’s Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Advanced Educational Studies – Special Education is designed for educators who want to pursue advanced research, deepen their expertise, and contribute meaningful scholarship to the special education community through a dissertation-focused program.
By entering with a conferred doctoral degree, you may be able to transfer up to 39 previously earned credits into the program. With only 60 total credit hours required, you could potentially be just 21 credit hours away from adding a Ph.D. to your accomplishments and continuing your work in the service of exceptional learners.
What Will You Study in Liberty University’s Advanced Ph.D. in Special Education?
- A biblical perspective on decision-making within the field of education
- Advanced practices in designing and conducting original research
- Educational theories within the field for professional and academic practice
- Pedagogical concepts and approaches based upon research and knowledge of the discipline
- Theories and evidence-based practices that inform leadership, research, and teacher preparation in special education
By focusing your research and dissertation on special education, you will study the unique needs of students with all forms of learning disabilities. You will also study best practices in curriculum and program development for children with behavioral disorders, special needs, and those who excel and need more challenging programs. Understanding these topics in special education is vital for effectively serving your school administration at the local, state, or national level.
Potential Career Opportunities for Ph.D. in Advanced Studies in Special Education Graduates
- Educational consultant
- Educational researcher
- K-12 special education director
- University administrator
- University professor
Benefits of Pursuing Your Ph.D. in Advanced Educational Studies with Liberty University
As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Our online programs are backed by our brick-and-mortar campus – ranked as Niche.com’s #2 Best College Campus in America for 2026 – and that commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well. Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
- Most of our online tuition rates rank in the top 35% for affordability for 2025 when compared to our leading online competitors. As a nonprofit university, Liberty continues to strive to keep costs low for our students!
- Our Ph.D. online allows you to potentially transfer in up to 39 credit hours so you can turn your Ed.D. into a Ph.D.
- Completing your Ph.D. with an integrated dissertation gives you a terminal educational credential that shows employers you have reached the pinnacle of your field’s achievement.
Military Tuition Discount
We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $375/credit hour. Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.
Credit Hours
Class Type
100% online, 8-week courses
Transfer Credits
Transfer in up to 39 credits
May 18, 2026 | June 29, 2026
Maximize Your Time
- 100% online programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level.*
- Earn credit for prior learning.
- Transfer in up to 75% of a bachelor’s degree.
- Transfer in up to 50% of a master’s degree.
* excludes licensure, certification, and some doctoral programs
Your goals on your time
We are committed to helping you achieve your goals and complete your degree as quickly as possible. One of our admissions counselors is ready to assist you with starting the process.
Contact Us: (800) 424-9595
Why Choose Liberty University?
Prepare for a Career
Go from merely surviving in your current job to thriving in the career of your dreams.
Enjoy Flexible Courses
Complete assignments at your own pace, at a time convenient to you within each week.
Access Academic Support
Access our electronic and print resources through the Jerry Falwell Library, writing resources, study aids, and IT support.
Grow in Your Faith
Each of our programs is grounded in biblical principles, and our professors consider teaching to be more than a job – it’s their calling.
Liberty’s online courses give you the ability to choose when and where you study.
Financing Options
Financial Aid
87% of all Liberty students in an online program are awarded financial aid.
Tuition Discounts
Available for military service members, including active duty, reserve, veterans, and their spouses, as well as emergency response personnel.
Corporate Tuition Assistance
Deferred – If your company reimburses you for the cost of your education, you submit your grades to your employer who pays you, and then you pay for your classes.
Other Payment Options are Available
Contact one of our admissions counselors for more information by calling (800) 424-9595.
An Accredited Private Education Made for You
As a nonprofit university, we have been pioneering distance education since 1985 and offer a unique and proven approach to online education.
Along with our advanced accreditations, we also have been recognized by the following organizations for our excellence in education.
Our online programs are backed by our brick-and-mortar campus – ranked as Niche.com’s #2 Best College Campus in America for 2026 – and that commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well.