Master’s in Gifted Education – The 13 Top Online Degree Programs

Interested in a master’s in gifted education online? The majority of America’s educators teach students of average abilities. However, some educators thrive when teaching talented, high-potential students who have the capacity to change the world. If you are up for that challenge in your professional career, you’ll need to pursue a master’s in gifted education.

Fortunately, you don’t necessarily have to attend an in-person university. In fact, there are many high-quality online master’s in gifted education programs available. Today, let’s break down the best online master’s in gifted education, plus explore what you can expect from these programs.

Article Navigation: What is Gifted Education? | Online Master’s in Gifted Education Overview | What To Expect from an Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Program | Top 13 Online Gifted Education Programs | Gifted Education Master’s Degree Admission Requirements | Accreditation | How To Choose the Right Program | Licensing and Certification | Career | Apply Today!

What is Gifted Education?

Gifted education focuses on teaching advanced or highly talented students. Such students are generally identified relatively early. For example, a student may have a talent for mathematics and perform far beyond their peers. Generally, gifted students attend private schools or institutions to cultivate their talents and receive special attention. Gifted education teachers know how to:

• Utilize child psychology to provide a better learning environment for gifted students
• Provide specialized lesson plans to provide gifted students with additional challenges
• Support talented students as they pursue their goals

The benefits of gifted and talented programs affect both students and society. For instance, they give those advanced students the tools they need to thrive early, maximizing their potential in the workforce. Gifted education is not the same as special education. Special education focuses on assisting differently-abled students or those who have learning disabilities. While gifted education teachers don’t have to have a designated degree, it’s often advantageous. However, some private institutions require teachers to have one of these degrees to qualify.

What is the IQ Requirement for Gifted?

That depends on the specific institution’s guidelines. Generally, however, “gifted” children have IQs ranging from 115 to 160. Those at the higher end are considered very gifted, geniuses, or prodigies.

What CogAT Score is Considered Gifted?

The CogAT test determines whether a student is advanced or gifted. Generally, a CogAT score in the 97th percentile in one section or a composite test score in the 95th percentile is needed for a child to qualify as gifted.

What is the Difference Between Accelerated and Gifted?

First, accelerated students may not be gifted, but gifted students are almost always accelerated. In addition, accelerated students grasp the materials in at least one section or subject faster than their peers. For example, an accelerated student may be at the 12th-grade reading level in the sixth grade.

Online Master’s in Gifted Education Overview

A quality master’s in gifted education online program will have several core components, regardless of the institution you choose to attend. Of course, there are plenty of questions to answer. For example, what master’s degree in best for teachers? A teacher’s best master’s degree is one in general education or teaching. Teachers can then choose to specialize in a particular area.

Also, what is the difference between a master’s in teaching and a master’s in education? Actually, a master’s in teaching and a master’s in education are the same. However, they may differ in terms of their concentrations or course requirements depending on their schools.

Finally, is a master’s in gifted and talented education worth it? The answer is: absolutely. If you want to teach advanced, highly gifted students and help them thrive, then a master’s in gifted and talented education is worth it. You’ll do some good with your degree, find professional fulfillment, and often earn more money.

What To Expect from an Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Program

An online master’s in gifted education program will include comprehensive courses covering child psychology, educational principles, teaching strategies, and more.

However, some of them may include a practicum component or capstone course. Furthermore, most of these programs require you to have some teaching experience already. Because of this, you should not expect any “online” master’s in gifted and talented education to be 100% online (although some are).

Generally, graduate gifted and talented education programs consist of 30 to 40 credits. As a result, you’ll spend about two years studying full-time completing such a program. If you attend the program part-time, expect to take about three years to graduate. On the other hand, if you take an accelerated program, you could finish in approximately 12 months.

You may wonder, can I do my master’s completely online? Most online master’s programs require some practical credits or courses. They also usually require some teaching experience. However, master’s in gifted education online degrees can often be completed mostly online.

Most master’s in gifted education online programs are 100% online. But some include some in-person components or weeks where you have to visit your university. Read the program’s requirements carefully, so you aren’t surprised by the need to visit your school for a week in the middle of the semester, for example.

Does My Gifted Education Graduate Program Concentration say “Online”?

No. Any accredited gifted education graduate degree will not mention that you acquired the degree online, and it will not matter to any employer.

Gifted Education Master’s Program Courses

Most gifted education master’s programs online include courses covering subjects such as:

• Introductions to gifted education and talent development
• Curriculum and instruction for high-ability learners
• Social and emotional components of talented students
• Gifted education programs and services

For example, Introductory classes in Gifted Education and Talent Development. These will brief you on current trends and research. You’ll also learn how to teach gifted and talented students, as they require different academic standards and processes compared to standard students.

Meanwhile, courses like “Curriculum and Instruction for high ability learners” will teach you how to design learning materials for talented students. Such classes will also likely rate down the academic challenges you may face when creating these advanced curricula.

Then there are courses like “History of Gifted and talented education.” Courses like this will explore talented education philosophy and curriculum from their historical roots. As a teacher, you’ll know where gifted education programs came from and where they can evolve over time. Overall, your courses will prepare you to provide unique scholarly experiences for all the students in your charge. Depending on your degree’s focus, some courses may also teach you ways to effectively combine classes for gifted and talented kids with standard kids. This approach is becoming more common as many schools struggle to get enough income and space for their students.

What Will You Learn in a Gifted Education Master’s Degree Online?

In a gifted education master’s degree online, you’ll learn how to teach advanced, capable students to help them thrive. Teaching gifted and talented kids is not the same as teaching standard classes. To that end, you’ll discover advanced teaching strategies and how to develop challenging lesson plans and curriculums. That’s because gifted and talented students:

• Learn more quickly than standard students
• Require different academic challenges to remain engaged with course materials
• Benefit from being provided additional opportunities

In a gifted education master’s degree online, you’ll learn how to:

• Create effective, engaging courses and lesson plans for your talented students
• Teach kids who may quickly match your abilities in a particular subject

Many master’s degrees in gifted education also include courses on how to reach out and engage kids with gifted or talented programs. This is beneficial, as many parents of gifted students want their kids to have as many opportunities as possible. Given this, you should expect your gifted education master’s degree online to incorporate in-person or practicum courses. Depending on your work experience as a teacher, you may have enough to “count” as these courses or transfer your experience as credits.

Top 13 Online Gifted Education Programs

Students can pursue a wide range of high-quality master’s in gifted education online programs. Here are 12 of the best to consider.

1. University of North Carolina – Wilmington

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP
   Program: Master of Education in Academically & Intellectually Gifted
   Cost: $9,745
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   At UNC’s Watson College of Education, you can take a graduate program for an affordable price. Nationally recognized faculty lead the program. In addition, it incorporates technology integration projects and partnerships with local practicum mentors.

   More importantly, it has a flexible online format. It’s perfect for working teachers like yourself. It’s designed for currently certified K-12 teachers and other academic leaders. Subsequently, all graduates are able to design effective curriculums and programs for gifted students.

   The program includes 33 hours of coursework plus requires students to complete a teaching portfolio. All the courses are offered online in half-term sessions to accommodate teacher schedules. By completing this degree, you can add the Academically or Intellectually Gifted licensure to your credentials.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Education in Academically & Intellectually Gifted

    

2. Arkansas State University

   Accreditation: CAEP, HLC
   Program: Master of Science in Education in Gifted, Talented & Creative
   Cost: $10,015
   Duration of Program: 18 months

   At Arkansas State University, you can take an affordable MS degree in gifted education. This major takes as few as 18 months and includes 30 credit hours for less than $10,000 (not counting additional fees).

   The program and its contents consider recommendations from the CAEP and the Council for Exceptional Children. All graduates will learn not just how to teach gifted students but how to identify giftedness in standard students as well.

   Plus, the program is meant for flexible, hard-working professionals. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, and you can apply to begin school less than a month post your application date. Thus, this could be a stellar program if you have recently decided you want to pursue a new degree and don’t want to have to wait until next year.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Education in Gifted, Talented & Creative

    

3. Morningside College

   Accreditation: HLC, CAEP
   Program: Master of Arts in Teaching / Talented & Gifted Education
   Cost: $10,540
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   This MAT is perfect for educators learning how to effectively work with talented or gifted students. It’s 100% online, and it doesn’t require any practical courses – keep this in mind if a 100% online program is important to you.

   That said, all students have the chance to receive teaching endorsements and practical experiences throughout the program. The program includes 32 credits. Seventeen of which are in professional foundations, and 15 of them are in talented and gifted education courses.

   Furthermore, candidates can transfer up to three credits from another institution or educational partner. Low tuition is combined with Morningside College’s office of financial assistance, which offers a variety of grants and scholarships for currently practicing teachers.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Teaching / Talented & Gifted Education

    

4. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

   Accreditation: HLC, CAEP
   Program: Master of Education in Gifted, Creative & Talented Education
   Cost: $11,490
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   This M.Ed. online is an excellent graduate degree for future gifted and talented teachers. It’s 100% online, aside from a supervised practicum course which must be completed toward the end of the curriculum.

   Furthermore, students can choose an area of emphasis depending on their needs and preferences. Required courses, such as a creativity seminar and “teaching the gifted and talented,” means you’ll need to visit the school at some point.

   The program is 30 credits long, requiring all applicants to have a 3.0 GPA or higher from their prior schooling. You must also have favorable endorsement from faculty in your previous school programs to qualify.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Education in Gifted, Creative & Talented Education

    

5. Campbellsville University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP
   Program: Master of Arts in Education in Teacher Leader / Gifted Education
   Cost: $11,760
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   Campbellsville University’s MAT in gifted education is perfect for future teacher leaders. Each course is eight weeks long, and start dates are available most months of the year. At 36 credits long, it’s a comprehensive two-year program that will prepare you to teach gifted students of all stripes.

   The core curriculum focuses on teacher leadership skills and leadership styles. Furthermore, the program includes classes covering gifted education technologies and how to apply them. Two action research practicum courses are required for graduation.

   All students can take a specialty option in areas like information technology, English as a second language, and interdisciplinary early childhood education. This affects elective courses and allows students to tailor the degree to their interests.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Education in Teacher Leader / Gifted Education

    

6. Eastern Kentucky University

   Accreditation: CAEP, SACSCOC
   Program: Master of Arts in Education / Gifted Education
   Cost: $11,970
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   This MAT in Education includes a potential focus in gifted education. Candidates must be currently licensed teachers, but it’s a great choice for teachers of all grade levels and experience levels.

   The program is 32 credits in total. It covers both core and specialized topics in gifted education. Furthermore, students have the chance to complete teaching certificates and acquire endorsements by progressing through the core curriculum. Endorsement programs are available in things like ESL, gifted education, and literary specialist.

   EKU’s financial aid options are well-known and ideal for those who may need help paying for school. Check them out if you require financial assistance to get your graduate degree.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Education / Gifted Education

    

7. Upper Iowa University

   Accreditation: HLC, CAEP
   Program: Master of Education in Talented & Gifted
   Cost: $12,058
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   Upper Iowa University offers a 100% online Master of Education degree. This super flexible program offers eight-week courses. You can also accelerate your degree completion by choosing to attend a six-week summer session and complete extra credits in a truncated time spent.

   All students benefit from high-quality advising and support, and financial aid is available for all applicants of this 36 credit program. Qualified students can receive up to $4000 a year in TEACH grants from this school.

   If you apply to this program, you’ll be able to choose an area of emphasis aside from talented and gifted education if you choose, like reading or ESL. Note that the program does include a capstone seminar as one of its core requirements, so you do have to visit campus at least once. You’ll also need to complete a practicum course.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Education in Talented & Gifted

    

8. Western New Mexico University

   Accreditation: NCATE, CAEP
   Program: Master of Arts in Teaching / Gifted Education
   Cost: $13,456
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   At Western New Mexico University, you can earn an MAT degree with a teaching specialization. It includes 36 hours of credit coursework, 27 hours of which are focused on your chosen specialization. The gifted education focus also accompanies an endorsement in gifted education to further your career prospects.

   Throughout this program, you’ll need to complete one semester of supervised customer experience as a practicing teacher in a gifted classroom. You’ll also need to attend a weekly method seminar. Thus, this is not a 100% online program.

   That said, each class is taught by knowledgeable faculty, and there are various financial aid opportunities at WNU. Keep this in mind if you’re looking for a highly budget-friendly educational program.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Teaching / Gifted Education

    

9. Purdue University

   Accreditation: HLC
   Program: Master of Science in Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Gifted, Creative & Talented Studies
   Cost: $13,500
   Duration of Program: 2 years

   Purdue University offers one of the top-ranked M.S. in Education programs available online. This advanced degree has a focus in gifted, creative, and talented studies. It teaches students a strengths-based talent development model, so you can help your future students recognize their potential.

   Furthermore, an optional licensure preparation for future teachers in Indiana complements this program. For example, you can earn a graduate certificate to accelerate your professional prospects before graduating.

   Overall, the admission requirements are reasonable. You do not need GRE scores to qualify. The program is 32 credits in total from start to finish.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Gifted, Creative & Talented Studies

    

10. William Carey University

    Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP
    Program: Master of Education in Gifted Education
    Cost: $14,850
    Duration of Program: 2 years

    William Carey University offers a Master of Education program with a focus in gifted education. This teaches you how to identify, differentiate, and develop intellectually gifted learners. It focuses on many of the theories behind gifted learning and ensures all graduates are knowledgeable with up-to-date teaching practices.

    It’s 30 credit hours in total and can be completed in just 12 months. Furthermore, students can start the program during any semester. Most classes are flexible and asynchronous, although there are a few in-person attendance requirements.

    Applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 for previous schooling and a teacher’s license. But they don’t need GRE scores in order to qualify.

    Find Out More:
    Master of Education in Gifted Education

     

11. Arkansas State University

    Accreditation: HLC
    Program: Master of Science in Education / Gifted, Talented, & Creative
    Cost: $10,015
    Duration of Program: 1.5-2 years

    Arkansas State University’s Master of Science in Education concentrates on creative, talented, and gifted children. This degree is a 30-credit program that students can complete in 18 months with the accelerated or full-time track.

    All distance learners for this program will develop the proficiencies needed to make advanced teaching models, plus learn how to identify gifted students. The curriculum covers ten courses in total and includes topics like philosophies of education and effective programming in the classroom.

    The program is designed for practicing educators, so applicants must already have a valid teacher’s license to qualify.

    Find Out More:
    Master of Science in Education in Gifted, Talented & Creative

     

12. Regent University

    Accreditation: SACSCOC
    Program: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction/Gifted & Talented (w/ Endorsement)
    Cost: $21,450
    Duration of Program: 2-4 years

    Regent University is a private Christian University in Virginia. Students can apply for an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program, which includes a concentration in teaching gifted and talented kids.

    All distance learners will benefit from instruction from experienced scholars and educators. Topics covered in the program include models and strategies for teaching the gifted and the psychology and education of gifted learners. The program culminates with a professional experience project, during which all students must compile their skills portfolios.

    Note that out-of-state students already licensed educators are not eligible to apply for Virginia’s gifted education endorsement. But Virginia students can earn this endorsement as an additional benefit of completing the program.

    Find Out More:
    Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Gifted & Talented (w/ Endorsement)

     

13. University of Louisiana at Monroe

    Accreditation: SACSCOC
    Program: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
    Cost: $21,000
    Duration of Program: 2-4 years

    The University of Louisiana at Monroe’s Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction concentrates on special and gifted education. Thus, this degree program is ideal for educators who want to teach advanced or special needs students.

    The program includes 36 credits and an eight-week practicum component, so it is not 100% online. The practicum is still an excellent opportunity to network and see educational methods implemented in person. The program’s core courses explore ways to develop creativity in the classroom and incorporate research-based instruction.

    All applicants must already have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a teaching certificate. Students choose from five start dates throughout the year, so it is one of the most accessible programs to jump into.

    Find Out More:
    Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

     

Gifted Education Master’s Degree Admission Requirements

In addition to having some teaching experience and a valid teaching license, you’ll need several other materials to qualify for most master’s degrees in gifted education:

• One or more letters of recommendation
• GRE scores
• A letter or statement of intent

Most admission requirements are relatively standard. However, some programs may accept those with teaching degrees but no teaching experience if you wish to become an advanced or gifted teacher right out of high school. Generally, you’ll need a high GPA from your previous schooling (often 3.0 or above) to enter grad school at all. But this could also be higher since your gifted education degree is meant to prepare you to teach highly-talented students.

Your letters of recommendation, meanwhile, can come from former professors, supervisors at your current workplace, and similar specialists. Most programs for gifted education teachers require GRE scores above a certain threshold. Be sure to study for the GRE so that you can acquire these scores quickly.

Lastly, your letter or statement of intent may be one to two pages long. It requires you to:

• Explain why you wish to take the program
• What you plan to do as a gifted education specialist

Answering these questions honestly will go a long way toward maximizing your admission chances to competitive programs.

Accreditation

You should attend a master’s in gifted education online program only if a school offers it with regional accreditation. Many good accreditation organizations exist, including the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

However, the most important accrediting body for teachers of all types is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). CAEP is responsible for accrediting not just gifted and talented teaching programs but all teaching programs across the country. If the CAEP accredits your program, it’s well worth your time and more in-demand by employers.

Overall, you should try to attend an online master’s in gifted education accredited by the CAEP and accredited by a regional body like SACSCOC. Schools that have both accreditations are worthwhile.

If the CAEP does not accredit your degree, there’s a chance that you may not be able to acquire employment at desirable schools. This is also true should you decide to pursue any endorsements or certificates. For example, if you attend a certificate program after graduation, see if the CAEP accredits its institution. If it does, it could be a worthwhile professional pursuit.

How To Choose the Right Program

Choosing the right master’s in gifted education online program can be demanding. Considering a few significant factors would be best before signing up for any program.

Cost

First, consider the cost of your chosen program. Generally, out-of-state online programs are more expensive than those in your state of residence, even if you attend them online or as a distance learner. That said, some programs include tuition assistance or scholarships you can take advantage of.

At the time of this writing, the average cost of a master’s degree is roughly $62,650 in total, i.e., across two or three years. Master’s degrees in education generally cost around $52,000. The key factors that can affect the cost of your online education include:

• Whether you are in the same state as the university
• How many credits do you need to take? If you have extensive educator experience, you could “skip” some classes at some schools.
• Whether the school is private or public–private schools are usually more expensive than public schools, although this is not universally true.

Fortunately, taking classes online means you won’t need to pay for room and board so you could save some money in that way. If you can’t pay for your education by yourself, pursue scholarships, grants, and student loans. Be sure to apply for the FAFSA to see if you qualify for any federal grants and student loan opportunities.

Location

As noted above, your school’s location will impact your cost, as well as time differences if you have to attend video lectures synchronously (i.e., at the same time as the rest of your class).

Certification Opportunities

Lastly, see if a program offers certification opportunities. Some of the best online master’s in gifted education offer certifications or licenses as part of their course curriculums. Therefore, you could graduate ready to earn a position at a private school right out of the gate.

Licensing and Certification

Generally, graduates with master’s in gifted education must acquire additional licenses or certificates to teach advanced students or develop lessons for other teachers. For example, perhaps you want to become a school administrator, helping to create curriculums and classes for advanced students. In this case, you’ll need another license in education administration or gifted education. These prove that you know specific topics, which is essential since you’ll train other teachers in your practices and policies.

Of course, to teach in any classroom, you’ll also need a state license or certificate. Most master’s in gifted education online programs require you to be a practicing teacher or have a license to teach in the first place.

Career

Those with a master’s in gifted education have a wide range of career prospects. Not only can these professionals work as standard teachers, but they can also acquire advanced teaching positions at public and private schools.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1 million new teaching and librarian jobs will be added by 2030. Therefore, if you acquire a master’s in gifted education, you should have no trouble finding employment to teach advanced and talented students.

Depending on your position, your salary may vary. For example, high school teachers earn an average salary of $61,820 annually. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn about $61,350 per year, while middle school teachers earn $61,320 per year. Should you choose to teach special education, you may see an average wage of the same range.

However, you may earn a higher salary and have more responsibilities as an education administrator. With your master’s in gifted education, you could help to develop curriculums or programs for advanced students to help them capitalize on their innate talents.

Postsecondary education administrators earn nearly $100,000 per year. Of course, you can alternatively work as a principal for an elementary, middle, or high school that caters to advanced students, like a private institution. Should you do so, you could earn over $98,000 per year on average.

Regardless, most teachers of gifted students work at private institutions rather than public schools due to private schools’ greater average focus on cultivating talent.

How Much Money can I Make with a Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education?

You will likely make the same average salary as a typical teacher with a master’s in gifted and talented education. But if you secure a high-paying position at a private school, you will generally make more money.

What are the Highest-Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education?

Administration and curriculum development, particularly for private institutions, are some of the highest paying jobs with a master’s in gifted and talented education.

Are Gifted and Talented Education Graduates in Demand?

Yes, especially at private schools. On the other hand, gifted and talented education graduates are not in as much demand in the public school sector.

Apply Today!

Ultimately, the right master’s in gifted education online program provides you with the expertise to successfully teach America’s brightest students. Furthermore, a master’s degree sets you up for long-term career success. Specifically, it can set you up as an educational curriculum administrator or course creator.

The sky’s the limit when you earn one of these degrees. In conclusion, check out GetEducated’s catalog of online schools to get started finding the perfect program for you!