Reading Education Graduate Certificate Programs

Updated: Dec 18, 2023

Reading education and basic literacy is vital to early education. However, some children and even adults lack these skills. Teachers specializing in this area are needed at all levels and for all age groups.

A Reading Education Graduate Certificate, also known as Literacy Education, is for teachers and educators who want to help children and adults either learn to read and write or improve their general literacy. In some cases, it may be suitable for teaching English as a foreign language.

What Are the Online Reading Education Graduate Certificate Requirements?

When applying for a reading education graduate certificate program, the school will examine your academic background to see if you fulfill their admission requirements. These will vary from school to school, but often include:

Bachelor's degree and master's degree in a relevant education subject
Some schools may ask that you already have certification and license to work as a teacher
Further, some may ask that you have already worked as a teacher for a minimum of two years
Minimum GPA, often 3.0 or higher
Official transcripts from all colleges attended in support of your grades
Applicants for whom English is not a first language will be expected to demonstrate English proficiency through an accredited certification like PTEA, TOEFL, and IELTS. Alternatives include ELS112 and DuoLingo
Two or more letters of recommendation from employers or academic references
The application fee (non-refundable)
A supporting personal statement and/or essay

What Type of Classes Are Included in the Online Reading Education Graduate Certificate Curriculum?

A reading education grad certificate is usually able to be completed in around two semesters. The curriculum is made up of several mandatory core courses, and sometimes an elective or two. Common course titles include:

Interdisciplinary Adolescent Literacies
Foundations of Reading Development
Interdisciplinary Elementary School Literacies
Literacies in Informal Learning Environments
Foundations of Literacy
Methods and Materials for Developing Literacy Skills
Literacy Assessment and Instruction
Teaching Reading and Writing in the Middle and High School Content Areas
Promoting a Culture of Literacy
Foundations in Fluency
Assessment, Instruction, and Intervention
Balanced Literacy and Strategy Instruction
Literacy in the 21^st Century
Capstone Project

What Type of Career Can I Pursue with an Online Reading Education Graduate Certificate?

Reading education graduate certificates often lead to careers as education and literacy specialists. Popular career titles may include:

Adult Literacy Teacher: There are many adults who lack basic literacy skills. You will work in community colleges and schools helping adults learn to speak, write, and communicate.
Private Tutor: Similarly, you could work privately, usually one-on-one, to help adults or children who struggle with communication, reading, and writing.
School Curriculum Development: Working with government agencies or private schools, you can be responsible for developing a curriculum for schools. This does not just apply to literacy; with your command of language, you will develop age-appropriate content.
Reading Specialist: Work in a K-12 school assisting children who are struggling to read.