Literacy and Multilingual Studies, M.S.

Most schools have literacy positions at all levels including emergent literacy, early childhood, childhood education and literacy for adolescents. Also: reading teacher, literacy coach, and remedial reading/writing specialist. Our graduates also remain elementary or secondary classroom teachers who have strong competence in classroom literacy instruction and assessment.

Yes. Schools need teachers who are highly trained in literacy. The recent emphasis on literacy in national and state education agendas requires that our elementary, middle and high schools employ highly qualified literacy teachers and specialists.

Yes. An initial certification from New York State or an equivalent certification from another state is required.

More than just how to teach students to read. You’ll learn about the background and foundations of literacy, practices for emergent literacy, English language learners, and teaching students with disabilities, as well as child and adolescent literature, content area reading and writing, literacy assessment, and research techniques.

Please see below for frequently used links:

Exams

• College Board - CLEP Exam

Organizations

• NYSUT (New York State United Teachers)
• NYSED (New York State Education Department)
• NYS TEACH (NY Teacher Certification)
• UFT (United Federation of Teachers)

Total Credits: 30 credits
Literacy and TESOL courses: 

• EDUC 505 Teaching English as a Second Language (Offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer)  EDUC 522 Language Development and Literacy Acquisition (Offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer) 
• EDUC 561 Literacy Instruction for Students with Special Needs  
• EDUC 504 Cultural Perspectives and Teaching with Literature (Offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer) 
• EDUC 590 Approaches and Theories of Teaching Writing  
• EDUC 659* Practicum in Literacy Assessment, All Grades (in the second semester or after 9 credits) 
• EDUC 643 Literacy in Content Areas  
• EDUC 629 Modern English Structure and Teaching English as a Second Language 
• EDUC 636 Methods and Materials of Teaching English as a Second Language 
• EDUC 707** Mentoring Seminar in TESOL (in the last semester) 

Bilingual Education Extension Courses: 

• EUDC 508 Theory and Practices of Bilingual Education 
• EDUC 509 Linguistics and Language Development 
• EDUC 604 Mathematics and Science in Bilingual Education Field Experience  
  
  For a full curriculum listing please visit our catalog. 

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.

Students must submit an Effective Educator Statement to complete their application. You can download requirements here. 

Please submit the completed statement to your application portal. 

• Download a copy of the sequence map for:
  Literacy and Multilingual Studies, MS - Dual Certification
• Literacy and Multilingual Studies, MS - Tri Certification