Gifted Endorsement

Western Kentucky University offers a Gifted and Talented Endorsement, designated on the teaching certificate, which provides the opportunity to work directly with groups of gifted children K-12. Currently, we are the only Kentucky institution that has offered the complete sequence annually since 1984. Specializing in gifted education proves extremely valuable for classroom teachers, counselors, gifted resource teachers or administrators.

The endorsement requires four classes, three of which are offered online. GTE 536 is offered in the Fall, GTE 537 is offered in the Spring, and PSY 432G and GTE 538 (Practicum) are offered in the Summer. GTE 538 is a two-week practicum and is not offered online. Contact The Center for more information.

Kentucky teachers must pass the PRAXIS in Gifted Education, a requirement that began in 2009.

Application Process

Applying to the Office of Graduate Studies and Research is the first step.

The Gifted and Talented Endorsement can be part of a Master’s program, a Rank II or a Rank I as well as a separate endorsement. It is crucial to plan early in the program so that courses are taken as needed. If an endorsement is specified, the adviser will be Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of the Center for Gifted Studies.

Required Courses

The Endorsement requires four three-hour courses:

GTE 536 Nature and Needs of Gifted, Creative and Talented Students. 3 hours. Terminology, theories, issues, and general approaches in educating gifted, creative, and talented young people.

GTE 537 Curriculum, Strategies, and Materials for Gifted Students. 3 hours. The curriculum and the learning environment in meeting the unique and advanced needs of gifted students. Strategies particularly suitable for the gifted.

PSY 432G Psychology of the Gifted and Creative. 3 hours. Identification of gifted children and adults with emphasis on educational programs for the maximum development of giftedness.

GTE 538 Practicum for Teachers of Gifted Students. 3 hours. Prerequisites: GTE 536, GTE 537, and PSY 432G. Supervised experiences to integrate the knowledge and skills needed to plan, implement, and evaluate effective learning experiences for gifted, creative, and talented students. The practicum is a two-week experience on campus.