UVM's PhD in SHIE prepares highly trained experts with cutting-edge interdisciplinary methodological skills that address critical issues to enhance educational equity and inclusive education to promote the social, emotional, and behavioral health of children, youth, and adults (birth to age 21) impacted by adversity such as trauma, maltreatment, poverty, racism, and other forms of marginalization. Graduates will be highly skilled in conducting meaningful research and prepare resilient educators and leaders to ensure the social, emotional and behavioral health of future generations.
Drawing on the disciplines, frameworks and research modalities of special education, social work, and public health, doctoral scholars will engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, training, and methodological rigor in advancing equity and inclusive education. Scholars will participate in applied research teams working to develop and test programs and practices in school and community settings.
Five core faculty members will lead the program, which places intentional emphasis on scholarship and activity and supports collaboration within the cohort and among the core faculty’s professional networks. Scholars will engage in in-person seminars, online learning, and professional conferences that support their success within the program while completing courses and fieldwork that prepares them to conduct rigorous and meaningful research.
Fulfilling a Critical Need
The American Association for Employment in Education indicates the need for specially trained practitioners in special education and social, emotional, and behavioral health exceeds the supply of specialists. The recent pandemic exacerbated longstanding shortages in university faculty with expertise in inclusive education. The overall result is diminished school capacity which challenges the wellbeing of children, youth, and their families that falls disproportionately on students of color and students with disabilities.
Project RESILIENCY
In 2022, the U.S. Department of Education awarded $1.25 million in funding through its Office of Special Education Programs to the University of Vermont's Department of Education. Visit our Project RESILIENCY webpage to learn more.