Literacy Programs

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

Master’s Degrees

Doctoral Degrees

8/29/24 Curriculum, Instruction and the Science of Learning, PhD with a concentration in literacy and reading education

Advanced Certificates

10/18/24 Literacy Teaching and Learning, AC

PROGRAM FEATURE	PROGRAM NAME
PROGRAM FEATURE	Literacy Specialist Education	Childhood Education with Literacy Emphasis	Literacy Education Studies	Literacy Advanced Certificate
Academic credential granted	Master of Education (EdM)	Master of Education (EdM)	Master of Education (EdM)	Advanced Certificate
Credits required for completion	36 to 37	33	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 Ed.M. 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)	2 to 3 full-time semesters Or 4 to 5 part-time semesters	2 to 3 full-time semesters, if 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 coureses. 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 Or Literacy specialist	Childhood education teacher grades 1–6	Classroom teacher (if completed coursework is submitted to NY state/independent pathway for certification) Or Private school classroom teacher Private school literacy specialist	Teacher education professional