Literacy Education (Birth-Grade 12), M.S.

The M.S. program in Literacy Education prepares graduates to help all students develop essential literacy skills through culturally responsive curriculum and instruction.

This program in the Department of Reading and Language Arts reflects the latest thinking around literacy instruction through personal instruction, dynamic online experiences, and community-based projects. This program meets the academic requirements for initial and professional New York State teacher certification in Literacy Education (both Birth-Grade 6 and Grades 5-12); existing initial certification in any teaching area is required.

Why Literacy Education at Syracuse?

• Complete your degree in one calendar year, or study part time while working with flexible course options – all classes are in the afternoon, evening, or summer to accommodate working teachers.
• You will take classes with full time faculty who are deeply involved in educational theory, research, and cutting-edge practices in literacy development.
• The program aligns with the professional standards of the International Literacy Association.
• Small student cohorts and a highly engaged alumni network mean you get to know your teachers and peers who will become your lifelong colleagues.
• Intensive field experiences provide rich teaching experience with youth from diverse backgrounds. Field experiences include the full range of child development and school grades, as well as opportunities to participate in our Summer Literacy Clinic.
• Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad programs around the world. Through the Himan Brown Fellowship, School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.

Our graduates are in schools and community organizations across the US and internationally including England, Canada, Spain, and Thailand, in roles such as:

• Classroom and subject area teachers
• Consultant teachers
• Literacy Specialists and Coaches
• Teacher leaders, department chairs, or school administrators
• Media, communications, and literacy professionals
• Further studies in Literacy Education, Educational Leadership, Library Science, or another area of interest

Program Contacts

Rachel Brown, Associate Professor

rfbrown@syr.edu|315.443.5672

Cleopatra Benitez, Office Coordinator

clbenite@syr.edu|315.443.4755

Speranza Migliore, Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment

smiglior@syr.edu|315.443.2505