Western Carolina University's program in academically or intellectually gifted (AIG) is available at either the undergraduate or graduate level. You will learn techniques for screening, identifying, and evaluating gifted learners; how to explore models and methods for differentiating instruction; how to promote creativity and problem solving; and how to advocate for gifted students regardless of issues of gender, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and/or language. The two different course sequences meet the state requirements for add-on AIG licensure.

The four required courses in each sequence are delivered entirely online, through a combination of synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous instruction, enhanced by various interactive Internet-based learning applications. Courses are designed and taught by regular WCU faculty. In addition to your online coursework, you must fulfill a one-week field experience. That experience, Cullowhee Creativity Camp, is held on the WCU campus in June. You may make arrangements to stay on the WCU campus during that week.

If the program is completed at the graduate level, you may be able to apply the credits earned to a master's in gifted education. Enrollment in the licensure program, however, does not guarantee admission to the graduate school.

Requirements

To be considered for admission to the undergraduate AIG licensure program, you must hold or be eligible for a North Carolina license.

The program requires 12 student credit hours of study (four courses), that you may complete in four semesters, including summer. The program comprises the following courses:

• Introduction to Gifted Education

• Methods and Models of Gifted Education

• Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

• Differentiation of Instruction for Gifted Learners

Admission

To be considered for admission to the undergraduate AIG licensure program, you must hold or be eligible for a North Carolina license.

To be considered for the graduate AIG licensure program, you must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a current “A” or “M” level license in any area.

Please visit WCU Alternative Licensure to begin the licensure admission process.

Tuition and fees

Additional costs may involve textbooks, high speed internet access, subscription to TaskStream, and headphones.  For current online tuition and fee information, click here.

For further information

Go to the program Web site, or contact the program coordinator via email or at 866-923-4723.

For general information on online education at WCU, click here.