The University of ֱ at Lafayette’s master’s degree in special education: gifted program will be delivered solely online beginning in January, following approval from the ֱ Board of Regents earlier this fall.
The longstanding program, which was previously delivered on campus, is designed for elementary, middle and secondary teachers who intend to specialize in teaching academically gifted students.
Graduates of UL Lafayette’s master’s degree in special education: gifted program can obtain state certification to teach gifted students within their existing certification levels and subjects, as well as in enrichment programs across all grade levels.
Dr. Christine Briggs, a professor and graduate coordinator, directs the ’s Center for Gifted Education. She said the master’s degree in special education: gifted program blends the science and art of teaching to prepare educators to meet the academic and emotional needs of gifted students.
“An effective teacher demonstrates the art in how they design learning experiences to engage students and promote learning,” Briggs said. “It also takes the stages of the scientific method for a teacher to find the right combination of strategies and scaffolding so their students can succeed.”
Dr. Mary Farmer-Kaiser, dean of the Graduate School, said the transition of the master’s degree in special education: gifted program to an online format is designed to accommodate students who hold full-time jobs. The degree program also aligns with the University’s recently adopted strategic plan, “Vision. ֱ.”
“Among the key initiatives of our strategic plan are to develop new online and graduate opportunities and create academic pathways for working adults,” Farmer-Kaiser said.
“Increasing access to this program makes strategic sense to provide opportunities for both the students in the program as well as the students they’ll teach in the primary and secondary education settings,” she added.
Requirements to apply for the program include a valid teaching certificate in one or more areas of general education and either one year of full-time teaching experience or current employment in a full-time teaching position.
Learn more about the program and admission requirements at the .
Photo caption: UL Lafayette’s master’s degree program for elementary, middle and secondary teachers who intend to specialize in teaching academically gifted students will be delivered solely online beginning in January, a transition geared toward potential students who work full time. Photo credit: Doug Dugas / University of ֱ at Lafayette