Talented and Gifted Endorsement

Experience the rewards of teaching intelligent and engaged learners by obtaining your Talented and Gifted (TAG) Endorsement from Drake University.

This PreK-12 online endorsement program is available at the graduate and undergraduate level for educators interested in teaching or leading talented and gifted students.  Our award-winning curriculum provides high-quality content you won’t find in other programs, and our innovative use of technology makes it easier than ever to become endorsed. 

Globally Reputable Program

A recipient of the Iowa Distance Education Association Point of Presence Award for Excellence, we have a global presence. Our  students represent 31 states and 9 countries including Italy, Japan, England, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, and Mexico.  Drake University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).  The course content is based on National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) standards, is approved by the Iowa Department of Education, and is led by experienced and knowledgeable faculty.  

The TAG program has a 96% persistence rate which is remarkable measured against the national drop rate ranging 20-70%.  

Upon completion of your endorsement, you will have access to the extensive Drake network present in numerous school districts throughout the nation. With the TAG endorsement, you will have skills to promote and nurture the abilities of talented and gifted children and further their well-being.  You will have the capacity and training to work in either elementary or secondary TAG programs as the facilitator working directly with students, as a teacher consultant to assist the regular classroom teacher, and/or coordinate the gifted program in the schools as an administrator.  

• 12-credit hour program
• Fully online
• See current 2024-2025 Talented and Gifted Course Schedule
• Endorsement is valid in all states with approval of your state department of education

Convenient Online Format

Take classes when they fit your schedule. Classes last only four to eight weeks, and the endorsement can easily be completed in one year. We do not sacrifice content for brevity: Drake’s School of Education is known for its top-notch curriculum, and the TAG endorsement is no exception. As part of your program you will complete a one-credit practicum in your own school district, providing valuable hands-on experience working with all student levels. 

More Information

Application Questions? Apply Now

Check out our Talented and Gifted FAQ, or contact:

soegradadmission@drake.edu
515-271-2552

Program Questions?

Todd Hodgkinson
Professor of Education
todd.hodgkinson@drake.edu
515-271-4565

Sally Beisser, PhD
Levitt Distinguished Professor of Education
TAG Director
sally.beisser@drake.edu
515-271-4850 

Learn More

Master's Degree.  Students who desire to pursue the next level can take an additional 17-credit hours and get a Master in Education degree.  

• MSE in Effective Teaching

Financial Aid: Teachers in shortage areas, as designated by the Iowa Department of Education, may be eligible for college student forgivable loans through both state and federal programs. TAG has been identified as a shortage area. Information regarding application for forgivable loans is available at the Iowa College Student Aid Commission website.  

Tuition and Fees

“As a parent of three gifted children, I am passionate about supporting gifted and twice-exceptional learners. As I prepare to embark on my new career as an elementary school teacher, I am delighted to return to Drake University for a TAG endorsement. I know this top-notch program will empower me not only to become a stronger teacher, but also to be a better parent and a more effective advocate.”

—Kim Hildenbrand, JO'01, Future Elementary School Teacher, the state of Washington

Kim Hildebrandt is a graduate of Drake University and is currently studying to be an elementary school teacher.  She is an advocate for gifted children, lobbying for equity and funding.