The University of Lynchburg is expanding its graduate offerings with three new education graduate programs. Starting in fall 2024, students can enroll in the Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology, the Gifted Education Certificate, or the Pre-K-12 Administration and Supervision Certificate.

“We’re thrilled to launch these new programs within the College of Education, Leadership, and Counseling,” said Dr. Steve Smith, interim dean of the college.

“These programs take advantage of many pre-existing courses, while also providing new areas for educators to advance their skills in curriculum development and organizational leadership.”

The Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology addresses the urgent need for educators to adeptly merge technology with teaching practices. This 36-credit-hour, online program offers a general, K-12, or higher education track that allows students to tailor their learning to their career aspirations.

Dr. Holly Gould, the MEd in instructional design and technology program director, emphasized the changing landscape of learning and the need for development in teaching methodologies.

“The roles of instructional designers are becoming increasingly complex with the explosion of online learning and the continuous changes needed to keep school-age and adult learners engaged,” she said.

“Lynchburg’s IDT program is here to fill the gap and help create innovative instructional designers, because delivering instruction, whether online or in-person, requires us to continuously adapt. ”

The Gifted Education Certificate is a concise, 12-credit-hour, online program tailored for licensed teachers aiming to specialize in the education of gifted learners. Successful completion of this program qualifies teachers for Virginia’s add-on endorsement for gifted education, enriching their credentials and teaching capabilities.

“Lynchburg’s Gifted Education Certificate empowers educators to nurture the unique talents of gifted learners,” said Dr. Victoria Hobson, professor and advocate for the new certificate.

“By offering this new program, students will be able to earn their add-on endorsement and foster the development of gifted students.”

The Pre-K-12 Administration and Supervision Certificate is a 21-credit-hour, online program designed for educators who already hold a master’s degree but wish to obtain the Virginia add-on endorsement as a K-12 school administrator. This program emphasizes practical administrative skills and includes essential internship experiences, offering hands-on leadership practice in educational settings.

“We wanted to give educators who want to advance into leadership or administrative roles the opportunity to earn the add-on endorsement without needing to complete an additional degree,” Dr. Mac Duis, director of the pre-K-12 administration and supervision program, explained

“Now, with the certificate option, we can open this career path to more of the dedicated educators who fill Virginia schools.”

The application deadline for the fall semester is July 31, and neither the GMAT or the GRE are required for these programs.

For more information about the programs or the application process, explore the graduate programs’ webpages or contact the Office of Graduate Success at gradsuccess@lynchburg.edu or 434.544.8300. Financial aid is available in different forms and more information can be found on the graduate financial aid website.