The Master's Degree Program in Special Education, Gifted offers two options:<br><br>The first option qualifies students for the State of Florida Endorsement in Gifted Education. This option provides advanced training for certified teachers to work with gifted and talented students and with other teachers on a consultant or collaborative basis. The courses for this major are offered through an on-line format, though some courses may be taken on campus. Emphasis is placed on developing specific skills in identification of gifted students, focusing on the characteristics and needs of special populations, assessing students' cognitive and affective strengths, modifying educational programs to develop gifted students' potential, and consulting with gifted students, their families, and teachers.<br><br>After admission to a major, the candidate and the department advisor together chart a program of study incorporating major requirements. Courses stress field based experiences. Students provide their own transportation to practicum sites in K-12 education settings. The practicum experience requires candidates to access assessment information about K-12 students in their school setting, including performance on individualized intelligence tests, achievement tests, and educational programs (EPs). Practicum coursework also requires candidates to conduct extended projects focused on the development and educational progress of K-12 gifted students. Employment in a K-12 classroom as a licensed educator is required to successfully complete major coursework.<br><br>The second option is designed for students interested in learning more about gifted children, including parents who homeschool their children and those who interact with gifted individuals in settings outside of traditional K-12 classrooms, such as through museum and summer programs or youth organizations. These individuals would not be seeking an endorsement in gifted education. Prospective students may be from international locales and may not need the Florida Endorsement in Gifted, but would nonetheless seek a degree in gifted education.