Literacy and Language Certificate of Advanced Study - Licensed Reading Specialist
Overview
Our Literacy and Language Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) is designed for educators wishing to acquire expertise in reading and written language to support a range of learners. Coursework is 100% online to accommodate the busy schedule of working professionals and those who are unable to travel to campus.
Our 20-credit CAS licensure option is designed for educators who have an initial license in another subject matter area and wish to become licensed as a reading specialist in MA. While coursework is 100% online, this program requires two onsite practicum experiences.
With a foundation in spoken language development, the programs are relevant for educators of students who are second language learners and those with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
This comprehensive 20 credit (licensure) reading program:
- Starts two times each year, each fall and summer semester.
- Can be completed in 21 months on a part-time basis.
- Allows flexible scheduling designed to accommodate busy professionals. Coursework is 100% online.
- Clinical and school-based practica are a part of the 20-credit licensure program.
Curricular Goals for the Literacy and Language CAS
The Literacy and Language CAS program places emphasis on how language development relates to reading proficiency and communication disorders. In the context of the latest evidence-based research, you will:
- Become proficient in providing reading instruction for all students
- Learn the most effective classroom screening instruments and individual diagnostic literacy tests
- Develop the skills associated with interdisciplinary case consultation skills
- Be prepared to take on a literacy leadership position
- Those in the 20-credit program will complete requirements leading to Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) endorsement through MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE).
A major goal of the program is to develop you as a literacy leader who can leverage your knowledge and experience to improve reading and writing practices in schools and health care settings.
See the program's application process and requirements for more information. The Literacy and Language Certificate is in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Educators who wish to attend an information session or have specific questions about the program may contact the Literacy and Language Certificate program director, Patricia Kelley-Nazzaro, at pkelley-nazzaro@mghihp.edu