Program Overview

Introduction to the Talented & Gifted Endorsement Program

The Talented & Gifted Endorsement program, offered by the Belin-Blank Center at the University of Iowa, is designed to promote practical application in schools and classrooms of evidence-based best practices related to advanced learners and talent development. The program is facilitated through the expertise of the Belin-Blank Center and can be completed 100% online.

About the Program

The Belin-Blank Center’s TAG Endorsement: Programming for Advanced Academics aligns with the state of Iowa requirements, equipping participants to meet the needs of advanced learners. The program of study’s coursework is relevant for today’s classrooms and learners, focusing on practical ideas, suggestions, strategies, and resources. All courses are facilitated by individuals with advanced preparation and extensive knowledge in the field, possessing teaching or leadership experience, and contributing to the field in terms of research, presentations, and/or service.

Program Details

• Complete in 12 semester hours
• 100% online
• Flexible program of study
• Individualized to meet individual interests and local school needs
• Research-based program taught by experts in their field
• Fall, spring, and summer offerings
• Available to both practicing and pre-service teachers
• Courses provided through Distance & Online Education
• Undergraduate or graduate level tuition option
• Needs-based scholarship opportunities
• Advising through experts at the Belin-Blank Center

Why University of Iowa

A dozen reasons to learn with the University of Iowa:

• #1 College of Education in the state of Iowa
• 100% online
• Practical strategies for teachers
• Financial assistance (need-based stipends, workshop vouchers)
• Meets Iowa endorsement requirements & national professional standards
• Course electives to provide choice
• Guided by current research and best practices
• Flexible practicum experience
• Emphasis on acceleration, mental health, rural and small schools, & twice-exceptionality
• Accepts coursework from other institutions (up to 6 s.h.)
• Pathway for a master's degree (Teaching, Leadership, and Cultural Competency with Advanced Academics Emphasis)
• Taught by experts in advanced learners and talent development

Program of Study

The TAG Endorsement program consists of 12 semester hours, covering a variety of topics pertinent to programming for advanced learners. The program includes a 1 semester hour Capstone Practicum.

Principal Areas and Sub-Topics

Psychology of Gifted

• Social Needs
• Emotional Needs

Programming

• PreK-12 Identification
• Differentiation Strategies
• Collaboration Skills
• Program Goals
• Performance Measures
• Program Evaluation

Organization

The TAG Endorsement program of study consists of 12 semester hours (s.h.), including required coursework (three courses - 7 s.h. total), elective courses (4 s.h. total), and the Capstone Practicum (1 s.h.). The Introductory course is the required first course. Electives can be 1 semester hour workshops, traditional 2-3 semester hour courses, or a combination of the two.

Capstone Practicum

The Capstone Practicum provides an opportunity for students to develop a guided, interest-based culminating product. The final product can be applicable to a classroom, school, district, or other local context.

Requirements for the Capstone Practicum

• Students may register for their practicum once they complete at least 9 semester hours toward the TAG Endorsement: Programming for Advanced Academics program of study.
• The practicum is offered in the fall and spring semesters (NOT summer).
• To gain a level of understanding of programming for advanced academics K-12, students must concentrate a portion of the Capstone Practicum on grade levels beyond an existing (or future) license.

Master's Degree

The coursework required in the TAG Endorsement: Programming for Advanced Academics can be applied to a UI master's degree (with an Advanced Academics emphasis).

Current Tuition & Fees

• Graduate tuition is $667 per credit hour.
• Undergraduate tuition is $399 per credit hour.
• Students in a degree program are charged various university fees.
• Non-degree students are only charged tuition, technology fees, and a one-time document fee (starting the second session/semester of registration).

Study as a Cohort

The Belin-Blank Center offers a significant scholarship for TEN teachers who are interested in pursuing the state of Iowa TAG endorsement. The $5,000 Cole-Belin Education Foundation Cohort Scholarship will be paid directly to the university at the beginning of each semester over the duration of the program.

Requirements for the Cohort Scholarship

• Licensed Educator (Iowa or nearby state)
• Minimum of 3 years teaching experience
• Complete the Belin Scholar Cohort Application
• An administrator recommendation & support form
• (Optional prior to acceptance) Apply as a graduate student to Distance & Online Programs.

Getting Started

Admission into the TAG endorsement program is two easy steps:

1. Contact the Office of Student Services for application information.
2. Apply to Distance & Online Education.

Introductory Course

The Introductory course is the required first course in earning a TAG endorsement. It is offered each semester (fall, spring, AND summer).