Gifted Education (Endorsement)
About Our Gifted Education Endorsement
Advance your teaching credentials and better serve high-ability learners with Slippery Rock University’s Gifted Education Endorsement program. This fully online, 12-credit graduate-level program is designed for certified Level I or Level II educators in Pennsylvania who want to add a PDE-approved endorsement in gifted education. You'll gain the knowledge and tools to recognize, support, and challenge students with exceptional intellectual and creative abilities helping them reach their full potential through specialized instruction beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Why Get a Gifted Education Endorsement?
- Take courses 100% online so you can earn your endorsement without stepping away from the classroom.
- Build on your certification with advanced training designed specifically for licensed educators.
- Strengthen your instruction with enhanced content and proven strategies for you to engage with gifted learners.
- Create a space where gifted students thrive — you’ll learn how to challenge them while encouraging creativity, exploration, and risk-taking.
- Earn ACT 48 credits while advancing your expertise in gifted education.
Career Outcomes
Earning a PDE-approved Endorsement in Gifted Education is a powerful way for certified teachers to advance their careers and become leaders in their schools. This credential qualifies you to take on specialized roles dedicated to supporting high-ability learners. As an expert in gifted education, you'll be equipped to design and lead challenging, creative, and inclusive programs, making you an invaluable asset to your school district and opening doors to new leadership and curriculum development opportunities. This endorsement can prepare you for roles such as:
- Gifted Support Teacher
- Teacher in a self-contained gifted classroom
- Gifted Program Coordinator or Specialist
- Curriculum Developer for gifted and talented programs
- Instructional Coach specializing in differentiation
- School or District-level leader in gifted education
- Sponsor for academic enrichment clubs and competitions
Requirements
What are the admission requirements for this program at SRU? Check out the requirements in the dropdowns of this section!
Program Director / Coordinator
Graduate Coordinator
Dr. Michelle Amodei
104C McKay Education Building
724.738.4758
michelle.amodei@sru.edu
Email graduate.admissions@sru.edu or call 724.738.2051 for information regarding this program’s graduate application deadlines.
To be eligible for admission to the Gifted Education Endorsement program, the applicant must already hold a valid teaching certificate, Level I or Level II certification. All applicants must submit the following materials along with a completed online graduate application and a non-refundable application fee:
- Official undergraduate degree transcript(s) with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher and any graduate transcripts
- A resume indicating the candidate’s history and current status (student-teaching, tenured, non-tenured; full-time, part-time, substitute) with a school district
- A copy of the applicant’s current teaching certification(s) or a letter from the certifying university indicating that requirements for a teaching certification have been met and that the certification application is currently being processed. This can be from any state
- Two electronic recommendation forms Students who are admitted will be required to submit health screenings and clearances to the Elementary/Early Childhood Education Department which are required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education
Please note: For more information, visit www.sru.edu/graduate. Transfer course evaluation information can be found on our graduate website.
Resources from SRU
From application tips to academic information and support, we provide the guidance and tools you need to start strong and stay on track. Our resources are here to help you make the most of your SRU experience.
