Lynchburg College

Programme overview

This postgraduate programme blends theory and practice in special education and gifted education. Students study legal frameworks, assessment methods, and instructional strategies that address both students with disabilities and those identified as gifted, with an emphasis on differentiated instruction and inclusive classroom practices.

What you'll study

• Assessment and identification: formal and informal approaches to evaluating special needs and high-ability learners, development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and gifted identification tools.
• Instructional strategies: differentiated curriculum design, curriculum compacting, acceleration, and scaffolded supports to meet a wide range of learning needs.
• Classroom management and behaviour supports: evidence-based interventions, positive behaviour supports, and collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Law and policy: federal and state special education law, rights and responsibilities, compliance, and ethical practice.
• Practicum and applied work: supervised field experiences or school-based projects that translate coursework into classroom practice and program development.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; many candidates hold initial teacher licensure or comparable classroom experience.
• Official transcripts and letters of recommendation; some programmes require a statement of purpose outlining professional goals.
• Applicants may need to demonstrate prior teaching experience or provide evidence of readiness for graduate-level study; specific endorsement or licensure prerequisites depend on state certification rules.

Career prospects

• Classroom roles such as special education teacher or resource specialist serving students with disabilities.
• Positions supporting high-ability learners, including gifted education teacher, pull-out specialist, or coordinator of gifted services.
• School-based leadership roles: instructional coach, inclusion coordinator, assessment specialist, or special programmes coordinator.
• Opportunities in curriculum development, educational consulting, nonprofit advocacy, and further study toward specialist licensure or doctoral work.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students commonly fund graduate education through a mix of institutional scholarships, need- and merit-based awards, federal loans and grants where eligible, and employer tuition-assistance programmes. Prospective applicants should contact the university’s financial aid office for current options and inquire about graduate assistantships or local partnerships that support practicum placements.