Literacy, Ed.S.

Program Description

The Education Specialist in Literacy is an advanced, post-master’s program designed for educators seeking to elevate their experience in literacy instruction, curriculum design, and leadership without the completion of a dissertation. The objective of this degree is to prepare professionals to lead literacy-focused initiatives, implement assessment-driven instruction, and support student-focused literacy development across various student populations. 

Program Outcomes

1. Analyze contemporary trends, foundational theories, and policy guidelines in literacy to construct practical, research-informed responses to pressing issues affecting literacy learners. (AO ) 
2. Evaluate and implement technology-integrated literacy strategies that support the diverse needs of 21st-century learners, using data-driven analysis to lead curricular innovation and inform policy at the organizational level. (AO ) 
3. Design and lead interdisciplinary literacy initiatives that integrate cognitive, sociocultural, linguistic, and critical thinking approaches to support content-area literacy, informed by a critical evaluation of current pedagogical methods and best practices. (AO ) 
4. Apply evidence-based assessment tools and intervention strategies to support differentiated literacy instruction and respond to learners’ needs using data-driven decision-making practices. (AO ) 
5. Design and lead evidence-based literacy programs that integrate the five pillars of reading and promote school-wide literacy improvement through data-informed decision-making, strategic stakeholder collaboration, and continuous professional development. (AO ) 
6. Design and lead professional development initiatives that distinguish between effective and ineffective fluency and vocabulary practices based on Science of Reading research. (AO ) 
7. Evaluate and revise school or district-level comprehension strategies to align with evidence-based practices that support deep, content-rich literacy learning based on Science of Reading research. (AO ) 
8. Apply, analyze, and promote best practices in leadership. (AO ) 

Mission Statement

The mission of the Ed.S. in Literacy program is to equip experienced educators with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to lead high-impact literacy instruction and support schoolwide literacy development. In addition to project-based coursework, students will pursue original research in literacy culminating with a capstone project.