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Our Academically or Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Certification program at Western Carolina University is a four-course sequence designed to prepare educators to effectively identify, support, and challenge advanced learners across diverse educational settings. Courses may be completed at either the undergraduate or graduate level, providing flexible pathways for preservice teachers and practicing educators. At the undergraduate level, the program is especially affordable through the NC Promise Tuition Plan, which offers one of the lowest tuition rates in North Carolina and expands access to high-quality, research-based teacher preparation.

Across the four-course sequence, candidates build expertise in key areas of gifted education, including twice-exceptional (2e) learners, equitable identification practices, and instructional differentiation for advanced learners. Students also engage in applied learning focused on writing, reviewing, and critiquing county-level AIG plans in alignment with state guidelines. The program emphasizes curriculum design for gifted learners, ensuring instruction is appropriately challenging, engaging, and responsive to student needs. In addition, candidates develop and apply strategies in creative problem-solving, helping them foster innovation, inquiry, and higher-level thinking in K–12 classrooms.

 

Rocket to Creativity is a summer field experience where you can immerse yourself in Problem-Based Learning and Creative Problem-Solving. The field experience takes place during the last full week in June. Teachers work with small groups of children to explore topics such as robotics, costume design, crime scene investigations, archaeology, aeronautics, or Rube Goldberg designs. Topics are modified each year to include current interests or trends. In addition, children attending the camp participate in a Makerspace during the day, so teachers have time to collaborate and meet with professors or other experts in the topic they are investigating. Teachers are encouraged to participate in evening events and take time to explore the mountains and the surrounding area. Housing and meals are provided. Participants can attend for CEU credit or enroll in SPED 400/500 Creativity & Problem-Solving to earn credit toward AIG Certification or an MAED in Gifted, Creative, & Innovative Education.