Dr. Elizabeth Swanson

Professor

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Biography

Elizabeth Swanson's career has focused on improving educational opportunities for struggling readers and students with learning disabilities. A former special education teacher, she worked with elementary school students facing challenges such as mild to moderate disabilities, dyslexia, and behavioral disorders. Currently, she is a research professor with a primary appointment at the Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk and a courtesy appointment in the Department of Special Education at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Swanson has served as principal investigator and co-principal investigator for projects exceeding $37 million, primarily focusing on preventing and remediating reading difficulties at the elementary and middle school levels. She has published over 70 articles in peer-reviewed journals targeted at literacy instruction for grades K-8 and frequently presents at national conferences attended by educators, school leaders, and researchers. Dr. Swanson has also co-authored several books on literacy coaching and reading comprehension strategies in educational settings. Her extensive research includes developing, testing, and implementing literacy practices aimed at supporting parents and educating teachers on effective instructional strategies for struggling readers. Additionally, she has held various editorial roles and participated in proposal review panels for educational initiatives, making significant contributions to the field of special education and literacy.

Research Interests

Experience

Research Professor

2008-01-01 — Present

Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk • Austin, TX

Leading research initiatives focused on preventing reading difficulties and improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities.

Awards

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Dean's Distinguished Professional Track Faculty Award

2025-01-01
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Faculty Development Award

2024-01-01
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Nominee, Diane Lapp & James Flood Professional Collaborator Award

2022-01-01

Requirements for University of Texas at Austin

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE General
TOEFL
Total
Required:79
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • CV/Resume
Specialization Notes

General requirements for the Graduate School at UT Austin apply to all programs unless otherwise specified.