Literacy and Multilingual Studies, M.S.

Mi-Hyun Chung, Ph.D., Program Director
(914) 674-3057
mchung@mercy.edu

Note: This program will be available starting in Spring 2025

The Literacy and Multilingual Studies M.S. Program aims to develop teacher candidates with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions for effective teaching and learning in diverse settings. This innovative program provides teacher candidates with a comprehensive foundation in both traditional and new literacy theories and pedagogies. The courses in the program reflect the principles highlighted by the Science of Reading and adhere to the learning standards of Literacy and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Equipped with science-based approaches and strategies, teacher candidates in the program will learn how to foster students’ development of speaking, listening, reading, writing, and cultural competencies. Graduates of the program will evolve into critical and reflective practitioners, adept at meeting the needs of diverse learners, including English Language Learners, in inclusive or mainstream classrooms, whether in urban or suburban settings. Program completers will be certified in both literacy and ESOL (all grades) and have the option to add a bilingual education extension certificate through additional coursework.

Literacy and Multilingual Studies Program Goals

By the end of the program, teacher candidates will be able to:

1. Integrate theoretical knowledge and practical application to facilitate literacy development and language acquisition, and to create effective learning environments.

2. Provide targeted instruction for students at different levels, employing diverse methods in teaching literacy, native language arts, and catering to the needs of diverse learners, including English Language Learners.

3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding and application of approaches in second language teaching, recognizing the significance and impact of culture and cultural identity on student learning.

4. Use technology and assessment data to make informed instructional decisions for students, and effectively communicate student learning and growth to parents, caregivers, and school personnel.

5. Exhibit professional dispositions to evolve into reflective teachers and leaders in the field of literacy and language education, contributing to both the school and the broader community.

Course Requirements for the Master of Science in Literacy and Multilingual Studies

EDUC 504 - Cltrl Prspctvs Tchng Lrng Prcs Credit(s): 3
EDUC 505 - Tchng English as 2nd Lang Credit(s): 3
EDUC 522 - Lang Develop & Lit Acquisition Credit(s): 3
EDUC 561 - Ltrcy Instctn Stdnts Dsbls Credit(s): 3
EDUC 590 - App & Theories to Tchng Wrtng and Dig Lit Credit(s): 3
EDUC 629 - Mdrn Eng Strct/Tch Eng 2nd Lg Credit(s): 3
EDUC 636 - Mth/Mtrls Tch Eng 2nd Lg PK-12 Credit(s): 3
EDUC 643 - Read/Write Cntnt Area Grd 5-12 Credit(s): 3
EDUC 659 - Pract Literacy Assess Birth-12 Credit(s): 3
EDUC 707 - Mentoring Seminar TESOL Credit(s): 3
Total Credits: 30

Additional Program Requirements

Fieldwork experiences pertinent to the grade level of the certificate are required. Degree-seeking candidates must pass the Content Specialty Test in Literacy within 27 credits of course registration. For those who seek for TESOL certificate must have documentation of 12 college level credits in a language other than English, and successful completion of the Content Specialty Test in ESOL.

Program Progression:

EDUC 505 should be completed prior to registering for EDUC 659 .
EDUC 522 should be completed prior to registering for EDUC 636 .
EDUC 707 should be taken in the candidate’s last semester and have permission from the chair.

Additional Course Requirements for the Master of Science in Literacy and Multilingual Studies with Bilingual Extension

The candidate who seeks for Bilingual Extension certificate must complete additional three courses as follows:

EDUC 508 - Theory and Practice in Bilingual Education Credit(s): 3
EDUC 509 - Lngstcs & Lang Dvlpmnt Credit(s): 3
EDUC 604 - Math & Science Bilngl Ed Credit(s): 3
A passing score of BEA test is required for certification in Bilingual Extension.

Professional Licensure

If you are interested in obtaining professional licensure, please check with the appropriate licensing body in the state where you intend to practice. For additional information and detailed requirements, please refer to the specific program of interest on the “School Resources” section of the Mercy University NC-Sara webpage.