The Literacy Program

In order to meet the high demand for literacy specialists at both the elementary and secondary levels, Saint Rose has four options that will lead to NYS certification in literacy. The master’s degree programs in literacy at either the B-6 level or the grade 5-12 level are both 30 credits. Certification only programs for candidates who already have a master’s degree and are seeking the additional literacy certification at either the Birth – 6 or 5-12 level are 24 credits. Completion of the Saint Rose program in literacy makes a teacher more marketable for employment as a classroom teacher or teacher of special education. It also gives candidates opportunities to serve as literacy coaches, curriculum developers, ELA program coordinators or remedial reading specialists.

The Saint Rose Difference

Literacy courses focus on reading and writing as processes and the various factors that impact an individual's literacy ability. Graduates of this program are proficient in determining the strengths and weaknesses of individual readers and writers, and implementing instruction tailored to their needs. Candidates benefit from courses that combine theory and research with field experience. Dedicated and experienced faculty members are dedicated to developing skilled teachers who are sensitive to students' literacy abilities and development. They make themselves available and accessible to graduate students at times that meet the students' needs. For the convenience of working teachers, most classes are scheduled in the evening. All program courses are offered in the summer as well.
 

Field and Clinical Experiences

There are two 3-credit practicum experiences to be completed by all students in the program. These experiences take place in area schools and/or in The College of Saint Rose clinic. In LRC 550/551 candidates have to diagnose and remediate two different students in a supervised clinical practicum. In LRC 552/553 they are assigned to a classroom where they work with the classroom teacher and paraprofessionals to individualize English language arts instruction for all learners. College of Saint Rose literacy faculty supervise the candidates at the clinic and in area public schools.

Admission Requirements

•Current classroom teaching certification education; grades Pre K - 6, grades 1 - 6, or grades 7 - 12;
•A completed Saint Rose
Graduate School Application;
•A baccalaureate degree from an
accredited institution;
•Official transcripts from all colleges/
universities attended;
•A grade point average of 3.0 in your undergraduate major;
•International students must submit transcripts translated into English by their college/university or professional independent evaluator, a copy and translation of the original diploma and a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).