Master of Arts in Education in Gifted Education and Talent Development - Advanced Certification for Teacher Leaders

The Teacher Leader concentration of the MAE in Gifted Education and Talent Development is designed to develop advanced certification for teachers who can positively impact student learning in their classrooms and schools with all children and young people, including those who are gifted and talented. Courses and experiences include professional learning communities in which students interact with other graduate students from various content areas and grade levels to discuss and work on real-world challenges and promising practices they encounter in schools. Candidates who complete the MAE will be eligible for a recommendation for Rank II and both the Gifted and Talented Education (KE37) and Teacher Leader (KTLE) endorsements. Individuals holding a Rank II will be eligible for a Rank I with both the Gifted and Talented Education (KE37) and Teacher Leader (KTLE) endorsements. Educators pursuing the advanced certification for teacher leader concentration may be completing the graduate program to continue in a teaching position or to become a curriculum coordinator. Counselors, principals, librarians, and other specialized teachers will enhance their knowledge and skills in a concentration that leads to Rank II or a Rank I if candidates already hold a Rank II certification and the gifted education endorsement.

Applicants who are alumni of WKU teacher preparation programs must submit a current, valid teaching certificate or Statement of Eligibility for IECE Birth to Primary, Elementary Education, P-5, Middle Grades Education, 5-9, Secondary Education, 8-12, 5-12, or P-12, or Special Education, P-12.
Baccalaureate degree or higher, or equivalent international degree, from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
Minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or greater on baccalaureate degree or equivalent international degree or minimum GPA of 3.0 on a degree higher than a baccalaureate or equivalent international degree.
Evidence of English proficiency (international students only)
Official transcripts demonstrating completion of bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university & certified English translation
Any additional program requirements (writing samples, resume/vita, etc.)
GRE/GMAT scores, if required by program
Adequate academic preparation in the field of specialization
English proficiency requirements (one of the following):
TOEFL, IBT 79
IELTS 6.5