The programs in literacy are designed to prepare either
prospective or experienced educators to effectively teach and
develop literacy skills in children that are essential for success
in school and in life-long learning.
A primary aim of the literacy programs is to develop proficiency
in providing instruction and assessment in literacy. Another aim is
to develop proficiency in organizing and enhancing literacy
programs in cooperation and collaboration with other school
personnel that results in creating instructional environments that
maximize literacy skills in all children.
Literacy (Birth-grade 6): Qualifying for Initial/Professional
Certification
The role of the literacy specialist within the school involves
instruction, assessment and leadership that contribute to the
development of student reading / writing / thinking / listening in
all phases of learning. This program is, therefore, designed for
people who already hold New York State certification for teaching,
whether provisionall /initial or permanent/ professional.
A minimum of 34 credits is required, including 28 credits of
graduate study that must be taken in literacy education. A college
supervised practicum in teaching literacy is also required for the
literacy certificate.
Successful completion of the program will lead to a master of
science in education in literacy. In addition, successful
candidates will be eligible for an initial/professional certificate
in literacy.
Literacy and Special Education: Qualifying for Initial
Certification
This program is designed for people who already hold New York
State certification in elementary/childhood education, whether
provisional or permanent. A minimum of 43 credits is required. A
college supervised practicum in teaching literacy is also required
for the literacy certificate.
Successful completion of the program will lead to a master of
science in education in literacy (birth to grade 6) and special
education (grades 1-6). In addition, successful candidates will be
recommended for New York State certification in literacy (birth to
grade 6) and special education (grades 1-6).
Literacy (Birth–grade 6) Certification Program
This program is designed for people who already hold New York
State certification for teaching, a master’s degree in education
and are seeking certification in literacy. Candidates may apply for
admittance to the core courses leading to a recommendation for
certification upon completing the requirements.
A minimum of 28 credits is required for the certification in
literacy. The graduate coordinator must approve any requests for
satisfaction of these requirements based on prior credits.
Literacy (Grades 5 - 12): Leading to Initial and Professional
Certification
Degree Requirements:
A minimum of 34 credits is required for the master of science in
education degree in literacy grades 5-12. These credits are
distributed as follows:
Dual Literacy (Grades 5 - 12) and Special Education (Grades 7 -
12)
Degree Requirements
A minimum of 43 credits is required for the master of science in
literacy (grades 5-12) and special education (grades 7-12) program.
This program is designed for people who already hold New York State
certification in secondary/adolescence education, whether
provisional or permanent.
Successful completion of the program will lead to a master of
science in education in literacy (grades 5-12) and special
education (grades 7-12). In addition, successful candidates will be
recommended for New York State certification in literacy (grades
5-12) and special education (grades 7-12).
The core components of 25 credits in literacy education and 18
credits in special education are required.
For more information about the master of science in education
program, including admission requirements, application
requirements, and courses, please go to the MSMC Graduate Catalog.
You can reach the office of the graduate program coordinator for
teacher education at 845-569-3525.