Niagara University’s Graduate Programs in Literacy Now Offered Online

Niagara University's College of Education now offers several online graduate programs in literacy.

"Our online graduate programs in education offer tremendous flexibility, allowing students to pursue advanced degrees while balancing their professional and personal commitments, and providing a pathway for educators to continue their professional growth as they gain the knowledge and skills to teach all learners," said Dr. Kathleen McGrath, associate professor and chair of the literacy department.

The master's degree in literacy education prepares practicing teachers to become highly-qualified literacy educators who are knowledgeable with assessment, instruction, and leadership, and leads to initial/professional literacy specialist all grades certification.

The 37 credit-hour program focuses on developmental reading and offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to design, implement, and assess effective instruction that is aligned with the standards and best practices of the International Literacy Association (ILA) for Professionals. Graduates are equipped with the skills to close opportunity and achievement gaps for PK-12 students, advocate for literacy instruction that meets the diverse needs of learners, and make decisions grounded in ILA standards and best practices.

An online advanced certificate program in literacy education is also available.

The M.S.Ed in literacy and English language learners program prepares individuals to provide appropriate literacy assessments, interventions, and supports for all learners with a special focus on English language learners. Candidates must hold a teacher certification in another area prior to admission to this program that includes at least six credit hours of literacy coursework in literacy skills and methods, and three credit hours of coursework in teaching students with disabilities.

This 46 credit-hour program will give students awareness and understanding of the social-cultural and socio-linguistic issues that impact the acquisition of English as an additional language, and leads to New York state initial certification as literacy specialists birth to grade 12 and as ESOL teachers birth to grade 12.

In addition to clinical placements in school districts, these programs offer on-campus experiential opportunities through Niagara's on-campus Family Literacy Center, where students can enhance the literacy performance of at-risk readers and their families.

All programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Niagara's rolling admissions option enables students to apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks.

For more information, contact Dr. McGrath at 716.286.8401 or kmcgrath@niagara.edu.