Literacy, Ed.D. (Ed.D. Completion Pathway)

Eligible pathway students are required to complete the courses listed at ACE to earn an Ed.D. in Literacy. A total of 37 semester credits are required in the course list. Please note: students who have not completed at least 6 credits in research prior to enrolling at ACE will need to take additional research credits per the Transfer Credit Policy found here.

Program Description

The Ed.D. in Literacy is designed for experienced educators who are passionate about advancing literacy outcomes in learning environments. Students completing the Ed.D. will gain experience as a scholar-practitioner with the knowledge and leadership skills to design effective literacy instruction, implement systemic literacy initiatives, and conduct applied research. Students engage in scholarly research throughout the coursework to support their final dissertation at the end of the program.

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.D. in Literacy program is to prepare transformative literacy leaders and scholar-practitioners who use policy and research-driven strategies to advance literacy education. This program empowers educators to lead system-wide literacy reform, develop innovative instructional models, and conduct applied research that drives measurable improvement in literacy outcomes.