The Master of Education: Teaching - Gifted Education program provides a strong, research-based background in professional teaching practices and promotes the development of teachers who are knowledgeable of the foundations and theoretical basis for gifted education, the developmental characteristics of gifted learners, and the instructional practices that best serve them. The program is designed for teachers who wish to further their studies by achieving an advanced degree with a focus in working with students who are academically and intellectually gifted. The coursework reflects standards advocated by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). This West Virginia state-approved program, while allowing for a master's level credential, does not lead to certification in Gifted Education. The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC). The program includes a total of 36 semester hours and is comprised of 12 online courses with experiential PK-12 fieldwork components, including a capstone course in school-based action research conducted on a school or other approved professional site.