At the University of the Cumberlands, students seeking additional pay levels and academic recognition may wish to complete their Rank I - Master's + 30 - while achieving additional certification. To accomplish this, they may take a variety of graduate courses totaling thirty hours, however eighteen of these hours must be at the 600 course level.

Students are also able to complete their Master's + 30 (Rank I) program as a certification in Special Education or in a School Leadership program. The School Leadership program at University of the Cumberlands allows the Rank I candidate to obtain certification as a School Principal, Director of Special Education, Supervisor of Instruction, Director of Pupil Personnel and Superintendent.

The ability to earn Rank I status while at the same time receiving an additional certification makes the University of the Cumberlands's graduate Rank I Master's + 30 program an excellent choice for students who wish to excel in their chosen field.