Mission Statement:
The Literacy Education Program at the State University of New
York College at Cortland prepares candidates to become specialists
in the teaching of literacy. We foster the development of literacy
specialists who are critical thinkers, reflective practitioners
and possess the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the literacy
development of all learners.
About the Literacy Program:
The Master of Science in Education-Literacy is a revision of
the Master of Science in Education-Reading program designed to
meet changing requirements recently established by the New York
State Board of Regents. The 33-36 credit hour program provides
candidates with the knowledge and experiences required to obtain
NYS certification in The Teaching of Literacy, Birth to Grade
6 or The Teaching of Literacy, Grades 5-12. Also, those wishing
to obtain both certificates may do so by taking additional coursework
and field experiences.
In addition to meeting state requirements, the program at Cortland
has been redesigned to address the International Reading Association’s
Standards for Reading Professionals (2003) as they relate to
Category III, The Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach (see p.
7). Graduates of our program will be prepared to provide specialized
literacy instruction and assessment across a variety of levels
and settings. In addition, they will be prepared to collaborate
with and guide other professionals and paraprofessionals.
The literacy education program strives to prepare literacy specialists
who demonstrate:
- A belief that all children can learn.
- A knowledge of theory, research, and practice related to literacy
learning and development.
- A knowledge of and ability to assess diverse learners’
progress and use formal and informal assessment results to develop
an effective instructional program.
- A knowledge of and ability to instruct diverse learners in
a variety of ways.
- A knowledge of and ability to offer learners a variety of
materials and texts.
- An ability to communicate with students, parents, allied professionals
and paraprofessional regarding student achievement and instructional
planning for literacy improvement.
- An ability to develop, co-ordinate and evaluate literacy programs.
- A view of themselves as lifelong learners who actively pursue
literacy related professional development opportunities and
participate in local, state, national and or international organizations
whose mission is the advancement of literacy.
- A desire and ability to promote literacy acquisition and development
that will ensure a more equal and just society.
Our program is designed to meet the professional standards of
the International Reading Association and NCATE.
Application packets and deadlines are available from the Graduate
Studies Office (607-753-4800).
This program is highly competitive with limited enrollment. Apply
early to avoid disappointment.
