Master of Science in Education
with Class A Certification in Gifted Education

This major is designed to prepare teachers to become gifted specialists (grades P-12). In addition, this major provides further preparation for general education teachers focusing on learning needs of gifted/high ability students. Candidates must hold a Class B certificate from the Alabama State Department of Education. The master’s degree program requires 30-33 credits. Candidates holding a master’s degree and Class A Certification in another teaching field may have their transcripts evaluated to determine if previous coursework can be applied to electives in the program of study.

The Gifted Education Program at Samford University includes the following features:

• A blend of theoretical concepts with practical “hands-on” experience
• A focus on nature and needs of gifted/talented/creative learners, differentiated curriculum and instruction to meet their needs in educational settings, social emotional needs of the gifted, and development of creative and critical thinking skills
• A strong internship component, operating under the direction of university faculty
• Classroom instruction that features content delivery based on gifted education pedagogy

Admission Requirements:

• Two official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended/graduated
• A copy of the candidate’s Alabama Class B Teaching Certificate
• Undergraduate G.P.A = 3.0
• Completion of application and $25 application fee
• Letter of recommendation by employer (e. g., Superintendent, Principal) or by a professor knowledgeable of previous academic and/or training experience
• Two additional letters of recommendation from professors, employers, colleagues, friends or clergy
• Score on Graduate Record Examination (GRE) of 800 or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) of 396
• Admission by the Graduate Committee
• Satisfactory performance on written critique of article
• Interview with director of the gifted education program
• Completed Immunization form for Student Health Services

Click to download Gifted Education Application Packet
Click to download Immunization Form

For further information contact:
Dr. Patricia F. Wood, Director-Gifted Education Program
205.726.4287
pfwood@samford.edu