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Gifted Education: Online Master’s Degree
Degree details
This online degree program with a focus in gifted education is a 33-hour degree program with 15 hours of gifted education courses and 18 hours of core course work. Courses are selected to provide educators with skills and knowledge in current learning theory and to translate this knowledge into practical strategies and techniques for use in the classroom.
Gifted focus courses
The 15 hours of focus courses include content covering:
- research with exceptional children
- nature and needs of gifted students
- curriculum methods
- assessment and evaluation
- practicum
For those interested in Missouri certification, these courses allow students to obtain the necessary course work for gifted certification while working on a master's degree in education.
The gifted focus courses meet Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) certification requirements and may be taken separately of the core courses by individuals who are interested only in obtaining gifted certification.
All students applying for certification in Missouri also must have completed an introduction to special education course in their undergraduate program. If students have not completed such a course, they will be required to take one at the graduate level.
Core master's course work
The 18 hours of core course work in this program include study in learning theory, instructional technology, instructional leadership, instructional strategies, measurement and assessment. These courses are designed to enhance the process of teaching and learning in the elementary, middle or high school classroom.
Terminal or comprehensive project
Master's of education candidates must complete a "take home" comprehensive exam as a summative experience or a terminal project approved by their advisor at the end of the degree program.
The candidate must be enrolled at the University during the semester in which a master's project is presented or completed.
Students may start the program as either post-baccalaureate (formerly non-degree- seeking) or degree-seeking.