Literacy Programs

Not sure which literacy program to choose? We offer three master’s programs, a doctoral program and an advanced certificate.

Doctoral Degrees

Master’s Degrees

Advanced Certificates

PROGRAM
FEATURE		 PROGRAM NAME

Literacy Specialist Education

 Childhood Education
With an Emphasis in Literacy

Literacy Education Studies

Literacy Teaching and Learning Advanced Certificate
Academic credential granted

Master of Education (EdM)

Master of Education (EdM)

Master of Education (EdM)

Advanced Certificate
Credits required for completion

36

32

30

15
(may be more depending on previous coursework)

Teacher certification
granted

Literacy specialist
all grades

Classroom teacher
grades 1–6

UB does not issue certification

Students who successfully complete the LES program can submit EdM coursework (along with other requirements) directly to NY state or independent pathway for teacher certification

UB does not issue certification

Students can submit coursework (along with other requirements) directly to NY state or independent pathway for teacher certification

Degree/
Credentials required
for admission

Bachelor’s degree
and
Initial NY State Certification

Bachelor’s degree
and
NY State Elementary Education 1–6 Initial Certification

Bachelor’s degree

NY state initial certification only needed if seeking certification through NY state or independent pathway

Bachelor’s degree

NY state initial certification needed if seeking certification through NY state or independent pathway

Completion time

5 to 6 part-time
semesters (full-time
not available)

3 to 6
semesters

2 to 3 full-time
semesters,
if course scheduling allows

Or

4 to 5 part-time
semesters

4 to 5 part-time
semesters

Course delivery

Online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Select courses may be taken on campus. The course practica can be completed online or in person.

Online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Select courses may be taken on campus. The course practica can be completed online or in person.

Online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Select courses may be taken on campus.

Online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses. Select courses may be taken on campus. The course practica can be completed online or in person.

Practicum included
in program

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Career opportunities
  • Classroom teacher
  • Literacy specialist

Childhood education teacher grades 1–6
  • Classroom teacher (if completed coursework is submitted to NY state/independent
    pathway for certification)
  • Private school
    classroom teacher or literacy specialist
  • Teacher
  • Education professional