This report describes a program developed by West Virginia University to address the increased demand for doctoral level special education personnel in higher education, particularly for colleges and universities in rural areas. Data indicate that the available pool of qualified teacher educators in special education has not been sufficient to meet the needs of existing and new teacher education programs. In an effort to improve its doctoral program, the Department of Special Education at West Virginia University engaged in a 3-year cycle of activities. The doctoral program curriculum was redesigned to reflect the major roles of leadership personnel in each of the following areas: teaching/supervision, scholarship/research, service, professional knowledge, and innovative technologies. Specifically, doctoral students are required to teach several college courses, develop a new course or substantially modify an existing course, supervise student teaching or practicum experiences in their area of expertise, demonstrate basic microcomputer/technology skills, conduct research, supervise beginning students in developing research competency, author or coauthor a grant application/proposal, author or coauthor a manuscript for publication, attend state and national professional meetings, provide inservice instruction for teachers and parents, and serve on professional committees. Since initiation in July 1992, the program has admitted 18 full-time students and 8-10 students on a part-time basis. The three most recent graduates have taken positions in special-education teacher education at other rural universities. Information on admission criteria and required coursework is included. Contains 22 references. (LP)