Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > EdS in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification)

Educational Specialist (EdS) in
Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification)

Online

Program Overview

Elevate your career with the EdS in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) program at The University of Alabama. With a 100% online format tailored to full-time professionals, you can seamlessly integrate your learning with your lifestyle. Upon program completion, you’ll earn your Class AA certification in Gifted P-12 and take the next step towards becoming a leader in special education.

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
33-36
Tuition Per Hour
$440

Empower Exceptional Learners

The EdS in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) program at The University of Alabama is designed for educators dedicated to advancing their skills in supporting gifted learners. This program delves into cutting-edge theories and methodologies in gifted education, gaining the expertise to craft and execute innovative teaching approaches that cater to the diverse needs of gifted students. Through a blend of coursework, field experiences and a final project, you will deepen your understanding of how to cultivate and foster an inclusive and stimulating learning environment for gifted learners.

Led by expert faculty members with extensive experience in gifted education, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical foundations with real-world application. Explore critical subjects such as talent cultivation, curriculum customization and specialized assessment techniques for gifted learners. Graduates will be prepared to lead in the field of gifted education, equipped to champion and empower exceptional students to reach their full potential.

Application DeadlineApplications accepted year round
Fees$10 College of Education graduate fee (per credit hour)
Scholarships and Grants AvailableDiscover a range of scholarships and grants to support your educational journey

Curriculum

The 33 to 36-credit-hour EdS program offers courses, following state guidelines, which allow an educator with the degree to apply for Class AA certification in Special Education, Gifted P-12. Please note that courses are subject to change.

Required Courses

SPE 612 Readings and Research in Special Education Gifted and Talented*
SPE 613 Consultation Processing in Special Education Programs
SPE 617 Special Education Leadership, Policy and Law
SPE 681 Issues in Gifted Education
SPE 682 Advanced Curriculum Workshop in Gifted Education*

*6 credit hours

BER 540 Statistical Methods in Education
BER 631 Inquiry as Interpretation: Qualitative I
Foundations Course – approved by advisor
Advisor–approved elective (SPE 606 Topical Seminar in Special Education is recommended)

Candidates admitted to the Class AA program without prior certification in gifted must complete additional coursework. Please consult your faculty advisor for guidance.

A passing score on a comprehensive written exam is required.

Admission

Admission to the Educational Specialist in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) degree program requires the following:

A master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid master’s level professional educator certificate in a teaching field
Transcripts from all institutions attended
A 3.0 GPA or higher in a completed graduate degree program
Statement of purpose
Completed UA Graduate School application
Completed requirements for fingerprinting/background clearance
Three letters of recommendation
- Recommendation letters must be from current and former professors and/or supervisory personnel knowledgeable of the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities for all College of Education programs that lead to professional certification

Applications are accepted each semester. Students may begin the program in the fall, spring or summer semester.

This program leads to Alabama Class AA certification in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification). If you reside or intend to seek professional licensure outside of the state of Alabama, please review the requirements for that state prior to applying to this program.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education.

Find more information and learn about restrictions related to these degree programs that may exist regarding licensure in the state in which you reside.