The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEDCI) offers five areas of specialization: Academically Gifted, Educational Technology, Library Science, Reading Specialist, and Secondary Content Area. The program is a 36 to 39-hour program. Teacher certification is required to enter the MEDCI program.
The MEDCI in Gifted is designed to prepare educators wishing to add the endorsement of Academically Gifted to their teaching certificate. The specialty courses explore the foundational influences of the field, the variations in characteristics of gifted individuals, and the learning differences which require effective instructional strategies and reflective practice. Courses provide the classroom teacher with tools such as acceleration options, problem solving strategies, and critical and creative thinking models to differentiate instruction to meet the special needs of gifted learners. The program meets National Association for Gifted Children and Council for Exceptional Children standards.
The MEDCI in Educational Technology is designed to allow educators to add the Educational Technology Facilitation endorsement to their teaching certificate. This program allows candidates to expand their knowledge base and to develop the skills needed to support the utilization of technology in teaching and learning. Specialized coursework includes multimedia and video in the classroom, developing curriculum for the classroom with technology, using educational telecommunications, networks, and the internet to teach, and technology leadership in schools.
The MEDCI in Library Science allows completers to add the School Librarian endorsement to their teaching certificate. This program allows candidates to gain an extensive knowledge of children and adolescent literature as well as develop the skills needed to organize and manage library sources and services and to design and implement instruction.
The MEDCI in Reading is designed to train and certify Reading Specialists and Literacy Coaches. Requirements include 24 hours of reading, literacy, and leadership courses which provide theoretical bases of instruction as well as hands-on field experiences. This program is designed for teachers and administrators in all school settings and at all levels.
The MEDCI in Secondary Content allows teachers who hold certification in secondary education to expand their knowledge in their discipline: English, math, science, or social studies. Through coursework in this program, candidates can earn the Highly Qualified designation in their field of study.
