Best Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Programs
The 21st century is an exciting time for gifted education teachers. With the recognition of multiple forms of intelligence and advancements in gender equality, talented students have more opportunities today than ever before.
A master’s in gifted education online prepares you for an instrumental role in the development of exceptional students’ abilities. According to Payscale, gifted teachers earn an average annual salary of $51,617 as of October 2024. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2% increase in employment for instructional coordinators, including 4,100 new positions.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Degree Programs
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students interested in a master's in gifted and talented education can earn their degree from The University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of arts or educational specialist in special education with gifted and talented P-12 certification program. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to gifted and talented education. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in gifted and talented education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
The University of Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of Arts or Educational Specialist in Special Education - Gifted and Talented P-12 Certification
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,780
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,250
13%
$10,780
87%
$30,250
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 38,100
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Missouri-Columbia
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in gifted and talented education degree at the University of Missouri-Columbia uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of education in special education with an emphasis in gifted education strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to gifted and talented education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants who majored in gifted and talented education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Missouri-Columbia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education: Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,264
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,363
32%
$ 9,264
88%
$25,363
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,014
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Georgia
- Athens, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in gifted and talented education degree at the University of Georgia, located in Athens, prioritizes flexibility. The master of education in educational psychology – gifted and creative education program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in gifted and talented before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Psychology – Gifted and Creative Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
14%
$ 8,878
96%
$25,186
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 38,920
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in gifted and talented education program at the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, offers a flexible online format. The master of arts in exceptional student education program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to gifted and talented education. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in gifted and talented education or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of South Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
55%
$ 8,350
91%
$19,048
- Acceptance Rate
- 48%
- Students Enrolled
- 44,246
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in gifted and talented education degree at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte prioritizes flexibility. The master of education in special education and child development: academically or intellectually gifted program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores gifted and talented education research and methodologies. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in gifted and talented education.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education and Child Development: Academically or Intellectually Gifted
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,337
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,771
29%
$ 4,337
83%
$17,771
- Acceptance Rate
- 65%
- Students Enrolled
- 29,615
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of North Texas
- Denton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Denton, the University of North Texas hosts a top-ranked master's in gifted and talented education program. The master of science in educational psychology: gifted and talented strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers gifted and talented education methodological and research perspectives. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in gifted and talented education or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of North Texas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Science in Educational Psychology: Gifted and Talented
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,496
49%
$ 5,900
79%
$13,496
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 39,336
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Southern Mississippi
- Hattiesburg, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Based in Hattiesburg, The University of Southern Mississippi hosts a top-rated online master's in gifted and talented education. The masters of education in special education: gifted education builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on gifted and talented education. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants without a gifted and talented education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of Southern Mississippi at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Masters of Education in Special Education: Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,786
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,786
70%
$ 8,786
68%
$10,786
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,133
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Kearney, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Nebraska at Kearney enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online gifted and talented education program. The master of arts in education in special education: high ability education (gifted) helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in gifted and talented education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Arts in Education in Special Education: High Ability Education (Gifted)
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,048
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,296
65%
$ 6,048
77%
$13,296
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,279
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of Northern Colorado
- Greeley, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in gifted and talented education , offered by the University of Northern Colorado from its Greeley campus, ranks as a top program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of arts in special education – gifted education specialist endorsement. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to gifted and talented education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in gifted and talented education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Northern Colorado at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Arts in Special Education – Gifted Education Specialist Endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,867
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,620
32%
$10,867
72%
$19,620
- Acceptance Rate
- 91%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,930
- Institution Type
- Public
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Hays, Kansas, Fort Hays State University hosts a top-ranked master's in gifted and talented education. The master of science in special education – gifted program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with prior experience in gifted and talented education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Special Education – Gifted
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,582
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,206
55%
$ 3,582
74%
$10,206
- Acceptance Rate
- 91%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,908
- Institution Type
- Public
Lindenwood University
- Saint Charles, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduate students interested in a master's in gifted and talented education can earn their degree from Lindenwood University, located in Saint Charles, Missouri. The master of arts in gifted education program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of gifted and talented education. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in gifted and talented education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Lindenwood University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Arts in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,000
53%
$18,000
64%
$18,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,392
- Institution Type
- Private
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online gifted and talented education program. The master of science in education in gifted, talented, and creative builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the gifted and talented education field and related industries. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to gifted and talented education. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in gifted and talented education may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Arkansas State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Science in Education in Gifted, Talented, and Creative
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,986
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,972
59%
$4,986
75%
$9,972
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,356
- Institution Type
- Public
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Natchitoches, Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an online master's in gifted and talented education. The master of education in gifted education program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on prior gifted and talented education experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of Education in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,738
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,526
82%
$ 5,738
70%
$16,526
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,900
- Institution Type
- Public
Millersville University
- Millersville, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its campus in Millersville, Pennsylvania, Millersville University offers an online master's in gifted and talented education. The master of education in gifted education program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in gifted and talented education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a background in gifted and talented education may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Millersville University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of Education in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,288
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,932
25%
$ 9,288
77%
$13,932
- Acceptance Rate
- 79%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,783
- Institution Type
- Public
Wichita State University
- Wichita, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A public institution in Kansas, Wichita State University hosts a top-rated online master's in gifted and talented education. The master of education in special education - early childhood unified program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of gifted and talented education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on prior gifted and talented education experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections. To learn more about the program, contact the school directly.
33%
N/A
52%
N/A
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 4,920
- Institution Type
- Public
Converse University
- Spartanburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Converse University, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, enrolls master's students in its online gifted and talented education program. The master of education in gifted education strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in gifted and talented education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a degree in gifted and talented education or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Converse University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Education in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,736
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,736
62%
$8,736
74%
$8,736
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,455
- Institution Type
- Private
Eastern Kentucky University
- Richmond, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Eastern Kentucky University, located in Richmond, offers a flexible online master's in gifted and talented Education. The master of arts in education in gifted education program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a gifted and talented education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 94%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Arts in Education in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,950
44%
$ 9,900
75%
$13,950
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,980
- Institution Type
- Public
Wilmington University
- New Castle, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online master's in gifted and talented education, offered by Wilmington University from its New Castle, Delaware, campus, ranks as a top program. The master of education in special education, instruction: early childhood/exceptional children emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in gifted and talented education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in gifted and talented education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Wilmington University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 35
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education, Instruction: Early Childhood/Exceptional Children
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,784
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,784
75%
$8,784
60%
$8,784
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 14,730
- Institution Type
- Private
Mary Baldwin University
- Staunton, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Staunton, Virginia, Mary Baldwin University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online gifted and talented education program. The master of education in gifted education helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in gifted and talented education. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants who majored in gifted and talented education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Mary Baldwin University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Education in Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,000
44%
$13,000
64%
$13,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 84%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,986
- Institution Type
- Private
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The master's in gifted and talented education program at McNeese State University, located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers a flexible online format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of education in curriculum and instruction: academically gifted education program. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of gifted and talented education. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The admission requirements include a background in gifted and talented education or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
McNeese State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Academically Gifted Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,703
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,740
56%
$ 5,703
70%
$13,740
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 7,295
- Institution Type
- Public
Best Online Programs
Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education
2023
Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyChoosing a Program
Professionals who earn their master’s in gifted education online equip themselves with the expertise needed to meet the unique academic needs of gifted students. Gifted teachers cultivate enriching learning environments that go beyond standard curriculum requirements of traditional classroom settings. Gifted education teachers receive specialized training that emphasizes teaching students with talent. Graduates of online gifted education programs demonstrate cultural sensitivity and knowledge of learning theories appropriate for the instruction of exceptional students. They possess the ability to select, administer, and score assessments.
Most master’s in gifted education online curricula consist of core and specialized courses. Core courses familiarize students with common instructional practices used in school settings as well as current and historical theoretical perspectives of the field. Students examine the social and political factors that shape education and their role in the establishment of norms that bring about change. Frequent topics of a gifted education program include curriculum development, classroom management, and professional collaboration.
Specialized courses allow educators to choose a area of interest. Possible concentrations in this field include gifted education administration, gifted education in elementary school, and gifted education in secondary school. All degree candidates must complete a teaching practicum near the end of their program.
Featured Online Schools
Online Master’s in Gifted and Talented Education Careers
Graduates of an online gifted education program work in instructional and administrative capacities in a variety of academic settings. The following careers are commonly pursued by professionals with a master’s in gifted education. These professionals value student success and demonstrate patience and compassion in the classroom.
- Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
- Gifted teachers at the primary level may see different groups of children daily or weekly. Their responsibilities include developing engaging lesson plans, communicating with parents, and maintaining a positive classroom culture. While the minimum degree requirement for elementary school teachers is a bachelor’s degree, earning a master’s in gifted education online expands employment opportunities.
- Median Annual Salary: $62,310
- Projected Growth Rate (2023-2033): -1%
- Middle School Teachers
- Typically working with 6th through 8th graders, middle school teachers have similar duties as elementary school teachers. Gifted education middle school teachers may teach children who excel intellectually across a broad range of areas, or they may specialize in the instruction of students with high aptitudes in a specific subject such as art or music.
- Median Annual Salary: $62,970
- Projected Growth Rate (2023-2033): -1%
- Instructional Coordinators
- Job duties of instructional coordinators include developing schoolwide curriculum plans and training teachers in emerging evidence-based teaching practices. They frequently analyze data to assess school performance and implement strategies for improvement. A master’s degree is required for employment as an instructional coordinator.
- Median Annual Salary: $74,720
- Projected Growth Rate (2023-2033): 2%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
