Literacy Education at Marshall, Nationally Accredited, Flexible Delivery

  • We offer a Master of Arts in Literacy Education, an Educational Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Graduate Certificate in Literacy Education to meet the unique needs of literacy professionals.
  • Programs lead to careers as Classroom Teachers, Literacy Specialists/Coaches, and Title One Literacy Teachers
  • Master’s Degree is a pathway to a Reading Specialist Endorsement from WVDE
    • Applicants from other states should check with their state agency about their accreditation requirements.
  • Programs are CAEP accredited
  • Online and face-to-face delivery options
  • School-based field and practicum experiences
  • Typically take 2 years to complete the Master’s Degree if enrolled as a full-time student
  • Affordable online classes
  • Financing options available

To view the Literacy Education course descriptions click here.

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Questions?

Dr. Barbara O’Byrne
Email: bobyrne@marshall.edu
Work Phone: 304-746-1986
Office Location: 100 Angus E. Peyton Drive South Charleston, WV 25303

FAQs

  • The Master of Arts in Literacy Education consists of five foundation courses, four advanced courses and one elective course for a total of 30 credit hours. In addition, the program requires admitted candidates to complete several assessments on the Literacy Education site which can be accessed by clicking here.
  • The Certificate Program in Literacy Education consists of five foundation courses and several assessments accessed on the Literacy Education site by clicking here.
Students have many practicum experiences embedded into many of the courses throughout the Literacy Education programs, which can be completed in their school community.
Coursework included as a part of this program must not be older than seven years at the time of graduation. All coursework that candidates wish to transfer from other institutions must be approved by Marshall University within the first semester of classes. A plan of study must be completed, signed, and returned electronically to the Literacy Education Secretary, Senior. These programs do not lead to an initial teacher licensure. Completers can apply to the West Virginia Department of Education for an additional endorsement to their general education teaching license. Out of state applicants should consult with their local agencies about any literacy endorsement requirements.
  • The Literacy Programs can lead to WVDE endorsements and licensure.
  • Students from other states will need to check with their state’s licensing agency for licensure.

Testimonials

Being a daughter of Marshall and a graduate of the University’s outstanding Literacy Education Program is something I am very proud of. Marshall’s program propelled my career as an educator, provided a multitude of opportunities for professional development, and equipped me with the skills to promote and produce literacy with all learners while creating a positive classroom atmosphere. The design and implementation of a curriculum that covers a broad range of topics from phonics instruction to ensuring the success of ELL’s is something that you won’t find in other programs. The Literacy Education Program was this active and busy teacher’s dream! The coursework was always manageable, and the program is staffed with compassionate, caring, and cheerful educators whom constantly encourage your success!
Photo of Katie Nestor, Public School Classroom Teacher, University Professor
Katie Nestor, Public School Classroom Teacher, University Professor
The Literacy Education Program at Marshall has both prepared and challenged me to integrate reading intervention strategies into core curriculum studies with great success. The program has done a fantastic job of merging a love of children’s literature, reading, and research into a program of study that provides a great benefit to its learners which will then be passed down to their students.
Photo of Gregory House, Public School Classroom Teacher
Gregory House, Public School Classroom Teacher