
Additional Certification in Literacy
Literacy Program Philosophy and Goals

Margarita Zisselsberger, 2003 Graduate, Literacy Program
PhD, Literacy, Boston College; Assistant Professor, Loyola University
"As a teacher curious about the reading/writing process, exploring the connections between the two was the impetus to pursuing my Masters of Science in Reading at Binghamton University. There, I was provided with engaging and stimulating courses, access to distinguished professors that encouraged me to continue pursuing my interests, and the opportunities to explore the valuable connections between theory and practice, which all contributed to my pursuit of a Ph.D. The support I received from my professors there was invaluable and am glad that they continue to serve as mentors and continue to inspire me in my own professional endeavors."
The programs in literacy education provide academic study and supervised field experiences at the elementary or secondary school levels for students holding initial or professional certification in early childhood education, childhood education, special education, (or speech/language), ESL, or a grade 7-12 academic subject. Individuals are prepared to assume leadership roles as competent and qualified literacy teachers, specialists and consultants. The completion of this degree and other requirements leads to New York state certification* as a literacy teacher..
Students must complete the degree within five years of matriculating in the program and must earn a cumulative average of B or better to graduate. See also: Graduate School Academic Policies.
For Binghamton University Literacy Program graduates ONLY, an Additional Certification in Literacy is available.
Minimum Requirements for Degree (courses are subject to change)
This program requires a minimum of 36 credit-hours. Students who have completed some program requirements prior to matriculation may take other appropriate courses as electives with the adviser's approval.
LTRC 513. Language and Literacy Instruction for English Language Learners
in K-12 Classrooms 4 credits
LTRC 515. Current Research, Theory, and Practices in Literacy Instruction 4 credits
LTRC 517. Culturally Diverse Literature for Children and Adolescents 4 credits
LTRC 518. Literacy Assessment and Teaching (prerequisite: LTRC 515) 4 credits OR
LTRC 521. Literacy Assessment and Instruction for Secondary Students 4 credits
LTRC 519. Adolescent Learners and Literacy for the Content Areas 4 credits
EDUC 530. Adolescent Psychology and Education 4 credits
EDUC 541. Applied Research Techniques 4 credits
SPED 500. Special Education for Content Area Teachers 4 credits
Supervised Practicum - 4 credits
LTRC 592. Practicum and Seminar in Literacy Leadership 4 credits
Students concurrently complete a position paper that includes a survey of the literature and an action research component.
NOTE: After browsing this website, direct questions about Binghamton University's literacy programs to coordinator Dr. Bogum Yoon at 777-3325 or byoon@binghamton.edu.