Literacy (Birth - 6th) at Keuka College

This is a Master of Science in Literacy program, leading to initial certification in literacy, birth through Grade 6 (B-6).  The program curriculum is based on three central and integrated themes - research, application of research-based best practices, and reflection on the efficacy of instructional practice and teacher decision-making. 

All graduates of this program are expected to demonstrate:

• an understanding of the foundations of literacy processes - both assessment and instruction - both remedial and proactive;
  
  
• the ability to implement a wide range of evidence-based instructional practices and carefully selected curriculum materials to support reading and writing instruction;
  
  
• the ability to use a wide variety of assessment tools and practices, both formal and informal, to plan for and evaluate effective literacy education;
  
  
• the ability to create literate environments that foster literacy by integrating foundational knowledge, use of evidence-based instructional practices, and use of suitable and relevant assessments;
  
  
• the ability to act as literacy leaders and advocates;
  
  
• the ability to interpret research findings, conduct action-based research, and communicate results to the stakeholders in literacy education;
  
  
• the ability to be reflective practitioners and life-long learners.

 Who is this program for?

This master's-level program is for teachers who hold current New York State provisional/initial certification.

It is designed to enhance teachers' knowledge about contemporary theories and research-based practices in literacy.  The expectation is that they become effective practitioners who understand and deliver high quality literacy instruction and offer proactive literacy leadership in B-6 educational settings.

How is the program structured?

Students enter our program during a summer semester and proceed through the courses together as members of a cohort, providing a close network of peers.  During the summer, the courses are held in the daytime, while, during the rest of the school year, the courses are offered in the late afternoons or evenings. 

Students enrolled in the part-time option may expect to complete the program in a little over two years.  This option is particularly well suited to students balancing personal and professional responsibilities, especially as new teachers. 

Students enrolled in the full-time option will be undertaking a much more intense pace of study.  They can look forward to completing the program in two summers plus a fall and a spring semester.  

For more information ...

Complete our form, call us at (315) 279-5410, or e-mail gradedu@mail.keuka.edu.

NOTE: Students in this degree program are eligible for up to $4,000 a year in TEACH grant aid