Welcome to Georgia's BEST, a recruitment and retention support for educators led by the Cobb County School District and University of West Georgia (UWG).
Together, we are committed to supporting you and are excited to offer graduate degrees, at no tuition cost to you.
How to Apply | Frequently Asked Questions |
Those who have applied for Georgia’s BEST in the past will need to fill out a new application.
August 2024 Cohort (applications for this cohort close on May 10th at 5 p.m. )
Ed.S Special Education with a Major in Special Education -- West Georgia's Program Details
The Ed.S in Special Education degree is designed for educators certified in Special Education who hold a master’s degree and are currently certified in special education.
M.Ed Special Education -- West Georgia's Program Details
The Master of Education program in Special Education is designed for educators with certification in this area to teach students in grades P-12 with disabilities who receive instruction using the general education curriculum and participate in the general statewide assessment, as well as students in special education preschool (ages 3-5 years).
MAT Special Education (for paraprofessional-to-educator certification) -- West Georgia's Program Details
The Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education program is available for paraprofessionals who hold an existing, approved degree in any field. This program leads to certification in grades P-12 and gives the student a Master’s degree at the same time.
- Bachelor’s required
- Concentration in Special Ed
- Leads to IRR certificate
Ed.D School Improvement -- Ed.D in School Improvement | UWG (westga.edu), Doctor of Education with a Major in School Improvement | UWG (westga.edu)
Concentrations in:
The Doctor of Education in School Improvement Program offers a unique opportunity for educators looking for an interdisciplinary, inquiry-based doctoral program that prepares graduates to become change agents in the PK-12 schools they serve.
- Master’s in selected concentration required
January 2025 Cohort (application will open in August 2024)
Ed.S Instructional Technology -- West Georgia's Program Details
The Ed.S. in Instructional Technology is designed for educators with a Master’s degree and provides superior student-focused education that is personally relevant and intellectually challenging.
Concentrations in:
- Math
- Science
M.Ed Instructional Technology -- West Georgia's Program Details
The Master of Education in Instructional Technology degree is designed to prepare innovative, academically grounded instructional technologists.
Concentrations in:
- Math
- Special Education
Additional programs of study coming soon.
