The MS in Literacy degree is intended for teachers who are seeking literacy certification in New York State (All Grades, pre-k – grade 12). The coursework brings together current research and policy to prepare teachers to teach literacy as a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, or literacy coach.

Coursework addresses the key components of literacy instruction, including literacy development, strategic instruction in key literacy areas, children's young adult literature, disciplinary, digital, and multimodal texts, writing instruction, literacy engagement, assessment, critical literacy, family partnerships, data-based decision making and learning standards. Initial teaching certification in any certification area is required for admission into this program.

The degree leads to initial certification as a Literacy Specialist (provided you pass the CST in Literacy), and the MS degree needed for professional certification in Literacy and in the area of your original initial certificate(s) (e.g., Childhood, English, Music). This program is available fully online.