Master of Education in Literacy

The master of education in literacy (M.Ed.) is designed for those who want to become reading specialists, literacy coaches, or more skilled teachers of reading and writing. Successful degree completion prepares the student for a Washington State Reading endorsement (K-12) and the required West-E Test in Reading. Seattle Pacific's program is aligned with the standards and guidelines of Washington State for teachers of reading and the recommendations outlined by the International Reading Association.

Graduates will develop a deeper understanding of the abilities, strategies, and knowledge required for effective literacy development. Literacy research continues to deepen our knowledge of the processes of reading and writing and how they can best be taught. Good teachers have an up-to-date understanding of this research base, and the master of education in literacy program aims to challenge and equip teachers to expand their professional knowledge base.

FEATURES OF THE PROGRAM

Accredited

• SPU's School of Education is fully accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Washington State Board of Education for the preparation of elementary and secondary teachers.

• SPU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

• SPU is a charter member of the Christian College Consortium (CCC) and is also a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).

Rigorous

• Admission requires meeting high standards in grades, test scores, and recommendations.

• The program is aligned with the Washington State standards for the K-12 Reading endorsement.

• Students must pass a comprehensive exam to complete the program.

Taught by Premier Faculty

• Bill Nagy (co-chair) is an internationally-recognized scholar in the field of vocabulary learning, and is the author of numerous influential articles and book chapters.

• Most courses are taught by full-time professors who possess doctorate degrees from prestigious universities.

• Faculty members are active leaders in state, regional, and national organizations.

• Faculty members regularly engage in scholarly activities including conducting research, presenting at conferences, and publishing articles and book chapters.

Flexible

• Courses are offered at work-friendly times.

• Many courses are available in online formats.

• Students can combine Professional Certification and Master's degree coursework.

Fulfilling

• The program is designed to help you improve your teaching.

• Graduates will improve their professional status with a graduate degree from a well-respected program.

• Graduates will often earn higher pay—increases can be over $7,000 annually.

Affordable

• SPU's tuition is comparable to most other programs in the area.

• Financial aid is available for students upon admission.

The master of education in literacy program admits candidates each quarter. Although teaching experience is not required for admission, it is strongly recommended that applicants for this program have substantial education-related experience working with children. Admission to the program is competitive.

In addition to the course requirements, students are required to complete a written comprehensive examination to be scheduled at the end of the program.

For additional program information, see the Literacy Handbook.

MASTER OF EDUCATION IN LITERACY (M.Ed.) PLUS TEACHER CERTIFICATION

The master of education in literacy-plus-teacher-certification route combines the required coursework (and internship experiences) for a Washington State Residency Teaching Certificate with the master of education in literacy program. The certification component is designed to be completed on a part-time basis over a two-year period. Following certification, the master of education in literacy can be completed in approximately one additional year (see suggested course sequence).

This route is designed for those who seek a Washington State Teaching Certificate (teachers from other states, those who wish to return to teaching and need a current certificate, those who wish to become teachers, etc.) and have a passion for literacy instruction. Completion of the program prepares students to add a reading endorsement to their certificate.

Those interested should apply to the master of education in literacy program and indicate on the application that you are seeking certification along with the master of education in literacy.

For additional information regarding admissions requirements, please contact Ted Hiemstra in the Graduate Center.