The Master of Science in Teaching Literacy, Birth–Grade 12 program is designed for students seeking professional certification in the teaching certificate they presently hold. Three years of teaching experience are also required for professional certification. This program leads to dual certification as a literacy teacher in Birth–Grade 6 and Grades 5–12.

The program offers teachers a philosophical foundation with hands on strategies for developing an awareness that speaking, listening, reading, and writing are interrelated and how these skills as a whole impact a child’s literacy development. Applicants to the program must also include a copy of the initial certificate with their application materials.

Teaching Literacy Program Goals

Candidates in the Teaching Literacy Program will acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to meet the literacy needs of children in urban and suburban settings, and will be able to do the following:

1. Link theory and practice to create environments conducive to literacy learning.
2. Provide appropriate instruction for students experiencing difficulty in acquiring literacy skills including students with disabilities and English language learners.
3. Analyze assessment data for instructional decision-making.
4. Communicate information about literacy to parents, caregivers, and school personnel.
5. Set professional goals and responsibilities.
6. Provide differentiated instruction that focuses on students diversities.

Fieldwork experiences pertinent to the grade level of the certificate are required. Degree-seeking candidates must complete an e-portfolio capstone project in EDUC 658 , “Seminar in the Organization and Administration of Literacy Programs,” and pass the Content Specialty Test in Literacy within 27 credits of course registration.