Program Overview

Graduate Certificate or Add-On License in Gifted and Talented Education

The Graduate Certificate or Add-On License in Gifted and Talented Education is a completely online program that aligns with standards set by the National Association for Gifted Children-Council for Exceptional Children. The program has national accreditation through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Quick Facts

• Next Start Date: May 11, 2026
• Delivery: 100% Online
• Major Credits: 12
• Course Length: eight weeks
• Time to complete: six months

Program Overview

This program will teach students to:

• identify gifted and talented students
• evaluate students and programs
• design appropriate curricula for talent development
• meet the social and emotional needs of gifted students

A high ability license or certificate will give students the tools to work with their schools' brightest students.

Course Requirements

This 12-credit program requires completion of four courses. Each course is only eight weeks long, and the program can be completed in only six months.

• EDPS 520 Introduction to the Gifted and Talented Student (3 credits)
• EDPS 611 Development of Creative Thinking or EDPS 623 The Social and Emotional Development of Gifted Students (3 credits)
• EDPS 621 Identification and Evaluation of Gifted and Talented Students (3 credits) or EDPS 626 Designing, Implementing, and Assessing Programs for Gifted and Talented Students
• EDPS 625 Models and Strategies for Gifted Education (3 credits)

Accelerated Master's Option

Current Ball State undergraduate students can begin graduate studies while finishing their bachelor's degree, saving time and money. Each of the five graduate certificate courses (15 credits) applies toward an accelerated master's. Earning both makes students more marketable to future employers.

Program Flexibility

Even if the timing for pursuit of a full graduate certificate may not be right, students can sample courses of interest to help build skills in specific areas for their professional development goals. These courses may also be applied to a master's in educational psychology or a master's in elementary education.