Dr. Lee brings expertise and a new vision to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program at Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University’s College of Education proudly welcomes Dr. Jongwoo Lee as a new assistant professor in the Department of Special Education this fall. Dr. Lee also serves as the program coordinator for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) specialization program, where he is dedicated to revitalizing the program and expanding opportunities for educators.
“I’m honored to join the prestigious Virginia Murray Sowell Center for Research and Education in Sensory Disabilities, the most historically funded sensory disability research center in Texas with over 25 years of federal and state grants,” Lee said. “I’m excited to contribute to a program that stands at the forefront of research and innovation in DHH education.”
Dr. Lee earned his doctorate in Special Education from The Ohio State University. His research focuses on how DHH students acquire English as a second language, with a particular interest in the development of grammar and sentence structures. By studying these patterns, he aims to improve instructional strategies and support English language learners who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
Dr. Lee’s Vision for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program
Dr. Lee’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Texas Tech works to expand and strengthen its DHH program. He envisions the program as a hub for research and innovation in DHH education field.
“My vision is to flourish this program by recruiting and preparing passionate educators who will transform learning opportunities for DHH students,” Lee said. “We want our graduates to be leaders who bring cultural affirmation, cutting-edge technology, and inclusive practices into every classroom.”
His work has been featured at leading international conferences, including Association of College Educators for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ACEDHH), American Educational Research Association (AERA), and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).
Prior to Texas Tech, Dr. Lee worked extensively with “Deaf Plus” students—individuals who are Deaf and also have additional disabilities such as intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorders. At The Ohio State, he focused on meeting their unique communication needs while preparing them for meaningful vocational opportunities. In addition, he was teaching English as a Foreign Language to secondary deaf and hard of hearing students in Seoul, South Korea.
Outside the Classroom
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Lee enjoys hiking, swimming in the summer, and skiing in the winter. He also has a love for cooking and experimenting with cuisines from around the world.
Why Choose Texas Tech’s DHH Program?
Dr. Lee was excited to join the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program at Texas Tech, housed within the Virginia Murray Sowell Center for Research and Education in Sensory Disabilities, where has held a strong track record of federal and state research funding over 25 years.
As program coordinator, Dr. Lee emphasizes both the need for DHH educators and the unique advantages of Texas Tech’s program.
- Flexible & Accessible: 100% online coursework designed for working professionals.
- Accelerated Pathways: Earn your M.Ed. in as little as two years (36 credit hours), and Deaf and Hard of Hearing certification (27 credit hours) to take Texas Education Agency Deaf and Hard of Hearing certification test, with options to transfer graduate credit hours.
- Specialized Expertise: Training in bilingual-bicultural (ASL/English) education, assistive technology, and STEM-focused instruction.
- Certification Options: Pathways for certified teachers seeking DHH certification
- All are welcome: No intermediate signing skills required.
Welcome to the Department of Special Education, Dr. Lee!
Are you ready to make a difference? Learn more about our Master of Education in Special Education – Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialization, connect with an advisor, or start your application today.
We are now accepting applications for the Spring and Summer 2026 Cohorts.
Contact Dr. Jongwoo Lee, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Coordinator, jongwlee@ttu.edu, for any questions about the program and/or assistance with your application.
You can also contact Dr. LJ Gould, Special Education Dept Business Coordinator, LJ.Gould@ttu.edu, for additional pre-admission application assistance.