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. (AO1) 
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. (AO2) 
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. (AO3) 
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. (AO4) 
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. (AO5) 
6. Design and lead professional development initiatives that distinguish between effective and ineffective fluency and vocabulary practices based on Science of Reading research. (AO6) 
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. (AO7) 
8. Apply, analyze, and promote best practices in leadership. (AO8) 
9. Demonstrate competence in the application of multiple reserach methods. (AO9)

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.