Gifted Education

Degrees: M.Ed., Certificate

Why Study This Program?

The Gifted Education program provides educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to work with gifted and talented students. This multidisciplinary program provides a path toward three graduate-level results: a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Gifted Education, a post-baccalaureate certificate in Gifted Education or an Endorsement in Gifted Education.

Each of these courses of study are designed to provide the specialized knowledge needed by teachers and other educational personnel who work with gifted and able students in grades K-12. The Master of Education degree is the most comprehensive option for teachers learning how to best work with students, families and communities to nurture a learning environment for a diverse range of gifted learners. The post-baccalaureate certificate can be applied in its entirety towards the requirements for the master's degree. As the four courses required to earn the endorsement are the same as the first four courses for the post-baccalaureate certificate, students who complete the endorsement coursework can then decide if they would like to continue on and complete the certificate.

As this program is designed to meet the needs of busy education professionals, you can progress through Gifted Education on a full- or part-time basis.

What Will You Learn?

The Gifted Education curriculum is appropriate for teachers whether they provide instruction in gifted programs or teach in inclusive settings. Faculty use cutting-edge expertise to facilitate the exchange of ideas and networking, and to encourage effective practices when helping gifted students achieve social, emotional, and academic success in the school setting. More than half of the faculty members in this program served on the executive board of the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education and are actively involved in research and advocacy for gifted learners.

The endorsement in Gifted Education curriculum features four courses about the psychology of the gifted, programming for the gifted, instructional effectiveness and instructional strategies. The post-baccalaureate certificate curriculum incorporates those same four courses, with the addition of a six-credit clinical practicum. The Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Gifted Education curriculum complements those requirements with further professional core courses and an area of specialization.