Program Overview

The advanced certificate in literacy studies is designed for New York State certified teachers with a master’s degree who want to become literacy specialists. This program introduces students to contemporary theory and practice in literacy studies, so that they become effective scholar-practitioners who understand and deliver high quality literacy instruction and offer proactive literacy leadership to schools and community agencies. Our program reflects advances in literacy research and policies by the New York State Board of Regents regarding learning standards. These policies are designed to articulate the highest learning standards possible for all students and balance attainment of these standards with consideration of issues of equity and access to education for economically disadvantaged and traditionally underrepresented groups at all levels of the education system.  

This program prepares scholar-practitioners to work with students in (All Grades) pre-K through Grade 12. Students will work at broadening the definition of literacy practices beyond traditional school-based literacy in order to address the issues of equity, access, and opportunity that are involved in literacy acquisition in communities that are as economically, linguistically and ethnically diverse as those found in New York state.  

This program, leading to initial /professional certification for teaching of literacy, prepares students to meet the educational requirements for certification as literacy specialists in (All Grades) pre-K through Grade 12. The advanced certificate provides students with the opportunity to participate in classes that focus on the most current understandings of literacy and pedagogical practices. Students are prepared for the following teaching positions:  

1. Classroom teachers with advanced preparation in literacy instruction. 
2. Literacy specialists with advanced preparation in one-on-one and small group instruction in literacy processes. 
3. Literacy specialists prepared to work collaboratively with classroom teachers in designing and implementing effective literacy instruction in inclusive environments.

Admission Requirements

Applications for admission to this advanced certificate program in the Department of Specialized Programs in 
Education are made to the Office of Graduate Admission. Admissions decisions are based on a comprehensive review of multiple criteria. The department understands that any single criterion may not reliably predict a student’s potential for success in the program. Students may consider applying even if they fail to meet one of the GPA or testing criteria but feel that other aspects of their experience might compensate. All individual cases will be reviewed by an Admissions Counselor before being referred to the graduate program for further review.  

1. MA or MS degree.  

2. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate course work, or its equivalent (e.g., a 3.0 in a completed graduate program). We encourage you to submit all transcripts from your undergraduate work and any graduate work for consideration.  

3. Two letters of recommendation.  

4. Possession of a New York State Initial or Professional Teaching Certificate.   

Notes:  

• Graduate students who enter a program of study on a nonmatriculated basis are limited to a maximum of 12 s.h. of course work.  

• A maximum of 6 s.h. of advanced standing may be accepted for relevant graduate course work taken elsewhere.  

• Program Standards 

The graduate director will review the academic standing of all graduate students at the end of each semester.  A student must maintain a 3.0 average to be considered in good standing.  Students who do not maintain a 3.0 average will be placed on academic probation.  Students who earn more than one C-, C, or C+ per semester, accumulate more than two C-, C, or C+ grades in their graduate coursework, or receive a D or an F in any course will be dismissed from the program.  In addition to the required GPA, students must demonstrate adequate competence and professionalism throughout all coursework and fieldwork.  If the director or program faculty determines that a student has failed to demonstrate this standard, they will be dismissed from the program.  Students may petition for readmission by following the School of Education Appeal policy. 

Advanced Certificate in Literacy Studies (All Grades)

The sequence listed below is recommended. However, LYST 240  and LYST 241  are prerequisites for LYST 242C  & LYST 243C .  

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of a minimum of 18 semester hours in prescribed courses with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.  
2. Completion of a minimum 50 practicum hours. 
3. Completion of all required Educational Law Seminars.  

Teacher Certification Requirements

Upon successful completion of degree requirements, students will be eligible to apply for the University’s recommendation for New York state certification. Contact the School of Education Dean’s Office, 240 Hagedorn Hall, for information regarding any required Educational Law seminars and other certification requirements. Forms for applying for certification can be found at the Office of Educational Support Services Web page under the certification tab.

To be eligible for the certification, students are required to have passing scores on the appropriate New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE). Please contact the School of Education Dean’s Office to address any questions.