The 18-credit Graduate Certificate in Gifted Education is designed to address the needs of teachers who are seeking Gifted and Talented Specialist certification in Maryland.
Candidates will study the foundations of gifted education, characteristics of gifted learners, and hone their knowledge and skills in curriculum, instruction, and assessment to meet the needs of academically talented students in their classrooms. As part of the program, candidates will observe gifted students and design and present lessons that are appropriate for gifted students’ cognitive and affective needs. The program is designed to meet all state of Maryland and national standards for teaching gifted education.
Program Requirements
The certificate is designed to be completed in six semesters, with students typically taking one course per semester—though students may elect to accelerate their progress or take longer. Courses are delivered at the Columbia Center campus and online.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ED.885.501 | The Gifted Learner | 3 |
| ED.885.512 | Twice Exceptional Learners | 3 |
| ED.885.604 | Social and Emotional Needs of the Gifted | 3 |
| ED.885.505 | Creativity in Education | 3 |
| ED.885.510 | Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for Advanced Learners | 3 |
| ED.885.820 | Practicum in Gifted Education and Talent Development 1 | 3 |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
| 1 | All candidates employed in Maryland who are seeking Gifted and Talented Education Specialist certification from the Maryland State Department of Education will undertake a semester-long practicum experience as the culminating course of their program. Candidates who are employed in other states outside of Maryland will take an online 3-credit elective course in place of the practicum course in consultation with their faculty adviser. |
Learning Outcomes
Program Goals
The goals of the program are to prepare educators who are able to:
- Understand the diverse factors that inform the identification and support of K-12 gifted students.
- Create safe, inclusive, and culturally-responsive learning environments that support the social, emotional, and cognitive learning needs of diverse groups of gifted K-12 students.
- Use assessments to identify gifted and talented students, assess their progress and modify interventions accordingly, and provide summative data on their accomplishments.
- Be reflective, ethical professionals who support and advocate for gifted K-12 students through collaboration with families and colleagues, use of community resources, and on-going professional development.