Instagram Combined Shape quotation Created with Sketch. 69

The Loading... program is a fully online program and meets the certification requirements of the New York State Education Department, as well as the Standards for Literacy Professionals of the International Literacy Association. This 30-credit hour program allows candidates to qualify for Initial Certification in either Literacy (Birth-Grade 6) or Literacy (Grade 5-12). Candidates will also satisfy the academic requirements for Professional certification in their Initial New York certification area. This program is currently accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) until 2028.

What You Will Learn

  • In-depth knowledge of literacy theories and research-based practices essential for effective, inclusive teaching and intervention, curriculum development, and leadership.
  • Multiple opportunities to examine assessment and intervention, enabling you to administer and interpret a wide variety of formal and informal literacy assessment tools.
  • Collaboration and communication skills central for working as part of a school team addressing the unique literacy needs of B-12 learners.
  • Perspectives and skills to develop innovative literacy programs that engage diverse students and families in school and community settings.
  • Student-centered, inquiry-based approaches to help you read and think critically, including the ability to analyze literacy research and construct literacy action research projects.

The Fieldwork Experience:

  • Completion of school-based fieldwork (50-plus hours) through a year-long, supervised internship or two-semester practicum, gaining hands-on experience of literacy assessment, intervention planning and implementation, and leadership.
  • A close relationship with faculty and field supervisors, who work together to support students to reach their highest potential as literacy educators, intervention specialists, and leaders.

Unique Program Features:

  • 100% Online
  • Field placements in practicum and internship frequently result in full-time employment upon graduation. Our faculty has a large network of contacts that lead to information about job opportunities, and our graduates regularly call for recommendations to fill positions.
  • Unique opportunities to integrate theory and practice through course-related case study projects; collaborations with classroom teachers to design and implement differentiated literacy instruction; and partnerships with schools to enhance family/community literacy outreach efforts.
  • Opportunities are offered to attend professional development workshops as a participant and contributor, helping further your understanding of literacy methods, policy issues, and pedagogy.
  • Classes promote close relationships with professors and fellow Literacy candidates. 
  • An advisor guides you through the entire program, providing support that greatly enhances your education experience.

I definitely feel so much more equipped to teach reading, writing and literacy skills now that I’ve gone through the program."

-Amy Goldberg, Literacy Graduate Student

Program Contacts

Admissions / General Information
Center for Graduate Studies
(800) 458-1142 / (315) 267-2165
Raymond Hall 206
graduate@potsdam.edu
www.potsdam.edu/graduate

Program-Related Information
Carolyn Stone
Program Contact
Satterlee 112A
(315) 267-2535
stonecs@potsdam.edu