Gifted Education Core Endorsement (Ages 4-21)
- Graduate Educator Licensure or Endorsement
- Online
- Online
21 Months
Fall Term (Aug.)
$668/Credit
Online Gifted Education Program
Ready to help gifted and talented students reach their full potential? Our Gifted Education Core Endorsement program is designed for elementary and secondary teachers. This program will prepare you to work with gifted and talented students from ages 4 to 21.
This program is designed for working educators. You can fit the online courses around your other commitments. You’ll also work with gifted students directly so that you can apply what you learn.
What You’ll Learn
Course topics include:
- Understanding gifted learners and their needs.
- Assessing and identifying gifted students.
- Teaching and curriculum for gifted learners.
- Communication, collaboration and leadership in gifted education.
Teaching Gifted Education
Help Your Students Thrive
This program was created with the help of working teachers to meet the highest standards for teaching gifted students. You’ll benefit both your gifted students and your own career.
Gifted Education Core Endorsement
When you finish this program, you’ll be prepared to take the Praxis exam and apply for the Gifted Education Core Endorsement (Ages 4-21) in Colorado.
This endorsement will also qualify you for credential requirements in most states. If you plan to work outside of Colorado, please see the Licensure Eligibility by State section below.
Course of Study
Delivered Fully Online
All endorsement courses are delivered online. You’ll also complete a field experience in your area. Most students finish the program in five terms (about 21 months).
To see specific course offerings, visit an example current students page for this program.
Courses and Requirements
This is a 24-credit endorsement program.
Other Gifted Education Teaching Programs
Gifted Education Graduate Certificate (Non-Endorsement)
The graduate certificate provides a strong foundation in the field. This certificate may be a fit if you are not looking to add gifted education endorsement, or if you have certain gifted education coursework already completed.
Special Education MA
If you complete the Gifted Education Specialist Endorsement concentration of the Special Education Master of Arts degree, you will earn this Gifted Education Core Endorsement during your master’s program and also be prepared for the Gifted Education Specialist endorsement.
Have Questions? Get in Touch!
Anna Taylor
Enrollment Counselor
Amy Graefe
Program Coordinator
Tuition Rate
Simple Per-Credit Tuition Rate
You pay the same rate whether you are in-state or out-of-state.
Per Credit
Rate for the 2025-26 academic year (fall, spring and summer terms).*
No Student / Technology Fees
Certain courses, e.g., field experiences, may include course fees to support added services and materials.
*Tuition for the 2026-27 academic year will be decided mid-June 2026.
Estimates of additional costs: For the purposes of determining financial aid, UNC follows Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and federal guidelines to develop an estimated, average Cost of Attendance (budget) for different student classifications. For your personal tuition estimates, we recommend using the program-specific tuition information above. But UNC’s official Cost of Attendance/Student Budgets page can help you identify other estimated expenses for which you may be responsible while completing your program.
Financial Aid and Support
- The federal government only awards financial aid for courses that count toward completion of a UNC degree, so federal aid is not available for this stand-alone endorsement.
- If you will need financial aid, please work with UNC Office of Financial Aid for information about non-federal loans.
- UNC also offers a monthly payment option.
Program Eligibility
General Admission Requirements
- Possess a baccalaureate degree from an institutionally accredited college or university.
- Have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or better, on a 4.00 point scale, for the most recent degree earned or current degree in progress.
- If you are in the process of completing a previous degree or have special GPA considerations, please read the specific requirements for this program type.
- Note: the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is NOT required for graduate school admission.
Program-Specific Admission Requirements
- Have a valid teaching license (if you plan to use this degree to teach).
- Have completed two years of successful teaching experience at time of application.
Eligibility for Out-of-State Students
Eligibility by State
UNC can offer distance learning in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the major U.S. territories. We check for changes in state rules as needed. Some states may have extra rules for internships, clinical placements, and student teaching. Visit the State Authorization page to learn more.
Licensure Eligibility by State
UNC’s professional licensure programs are designed to lead to Colorado licensure. Each state sets their own requirements, so a UNC program might not lead to licensure in other states. Visit the UNC Licensure page to learn more about which states UNC programs meet educational requirements for licensure.
It’s important to understand requirements in the state where you plan to work. Visit the State Licensure Boards page to find each state’s licensing agency and contact information. Questions? Contact Licensure@unco.edu.
International Student Eligibility
You are eligible to apply: We accept international students to online UNC programs. We can’t guarantee that our programs meet distance education requirements for every country. Before you apply, check your country’s policies and regulations. You should not apply if you live in a country that is subject to U.S. sanctions.
No student visa: Students in online UNC programs do not need to come to the United States. You will not get a student visa or receive any immigration documentation. You do not need to provide financial documentation when applying.
You will need to provide proof of your English language ability or complete the UNC Intensive English Program. Please visit the International Admissions page for information about:
- Minimum English language requirements
- Applying as an international student
Meet with an Enrollment Counselor
Gifted Education Experts
UNC Special Education
Are You Ready to Apply?
Thank you for your interest in this UNC program! Here are some elements you can check to be sure you are eligible and ready to apply to this program.
Program Eligibility
See the Program Eligibility section above.
Licensure Eligibility by State
This program is related to a state licensure, endorsement or other credential. If you intend to pursue a credential outside of Colorado, please check the Licensure Eligibility by State section above.
International Applicants
Please see the International Student Eligibility section above to check your eligibility for this program.
Recommended Application Deadline
Applications are reviewed for admission year round. The application deadline is July 15 for each fall start. Additional students can be admitted after that date if space is available, but applying by the deadline increases the chance that there is a space available for you. Please contact the Program Coordinator if you are applying after the deadline.
Application Process Details
On the application, you will choose:
- Licensure: Gifted Education Core Endorsement (Ages 4-21 yrs)
- Start term: Fall Term (Aug.)
View the full program-specific application details in the UNC Graduate Catalog.
Apply to This Program
Register & Start Your Application
Submit a Started Application
Application Checklist & Status