Providing a pathway to professional certification in Literacy at either the childhood (B-6) or adolescence (5-12) levels -- or both.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Literacy Education is designed for educators who already possess initial, professional, or permanent certification in Education and who are seeking professional certification and/or an advanced degree in Literacy Education.
This program combines theory and practice and meets all relevant New York State Education Department professional certification requirements. Applications for this program are accepted only for fall semester entry.
The Old Westbury
Literacy Clinic
All Grades Literacy Certification
Beginning in Fall 2024, the SUNY Old Westbury Literacy Education Program will be offering the All Grades Certification, which certifies students to teach literacy from Birth – Grade 12. The All Grades literacy certification aligns with the changes made by the New York State Department of Education. Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2024.
Please contact Literacy Education Graduate Coordinator Dr. Elizabeth Morphis with any questions you have about the certification.
Time to Degree
Old Westbury’s program is designed for part-time students only. Candidates who take two courses per semester can complete the program in two and a half years (5 semesters). The combined Childhood/Adolescence track can also be completed in two and a half years (5 semesters) if candidates take three courses during their second, third, and fourth semesters.
Outcomes for our Graduates
Graduates of the program demonstrate specialized pedagogical tools to increase literacy skills in both childhood and adolescence in the areas of digital literacies, literacy assessment, and various content area strategies. With this preparation, they are then ready to serve in school settings in such positions as positions as reading specialists, literacy coaches, and classroom teachers.