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

Master of Arts (MA) in
Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification)

Online

Program Overview

Take your teaching to the next level with The University of Alabama’s 100% online Master’s in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) program. Dive deep into understanding the unique needs of gifted students and learn to customize your teaching strategies to support and empower their success. This program leads to a master’s level teaching certification in Gifted P-12, preparing you to excel in educating exceptional learners.

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
30-36
Tuition Per Hour
$440

Bring More to the Classroom

The master’s in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) program is 100% online and designed for educators eager to elevate their classroom for gifted student education. Through coursework and field experiences, students will explore essential areas such as research, diagnosis and assessment, problem-solving. You’ll learn how to effectively address diverse needs within gifted education and refine your teaching strategies.

Our program is taught by experienced faculty who are seasoned experts in the field of gifted education. Our research-based curriculum offers practical insights that you can apply directly in your classroom. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to advocate for and support gifted students across diverse educational environments, positively influencing their educational journey.

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
Teacher Salary ScheduleAccess the Alabama State Department of Education Salary Schedule to understand earning potential for educators
Completion TimeMost students earn their degree in less than two years

Curriculum

The 30 to 36-credit-hour MA program offers courses, following state guidelines, that lead to master’s level teacher certification. An educator graduating from the MA program will be eligible to apply for master’s level certification in Gifted and Talented P-12.

Required courses

BER 500 Introduction to Educational Research
SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not taken a special education survey course)
SPE 501 Diagnosis and Assessment of Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not had an assessment/evaluation course in an undergraduate or another graduate program)
SPE 581 Psychology of Gifted and Talented Children and Youth
SPE 582 Teaching the Gifted and Talented

*Two 3-credit-hour internship courses are required

SPE 583 Creative Problem-Solving Seminar
SPE 584 Special Populations in Gifted Education
SPE 585 Teaching Thinking Skills
SPE 589 Internship in Gifted and Talented*
Foundations Course – approved by advisor
Advisor-approved elective

In addition to required coursework, a passing score on a comprehensive exam and the Praxis is required.

Admission

Admission to the Master of Arts in Special Education (Gifted P-12 Certification) degree program requires the following:

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid bachelor’s level professional educator certificate in a teaching field
Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or 3.0 average for the last 60 hours of a degree program, or a 3.0 or higher in 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 A 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.