MSEd in Literacy Specialist (Birth-Grade 12), SUNY Buffalo State

24 Months

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About this course

The Literacy Specialist master’s degree program at Buffalo State is designed for current teachers, teacher candidates, or individuals in non-educational careers who want to focus on improving literacy in K-12 settings. The program prepares students to work with students experiencing reading challenges, aiming to enhance their comprehension and literacy skills. Graduates are equipped to employ diverse strategies tailored to each student’s needs, whether in classrooms, after-school programs, or clinical environments. The program emphasizes practical fieldwork, including a summer practicum at partner schools within Western New York, and offers opportunities for involvement in clubs and activities such as the Elementary Education Club and Kappa Delta Pi. With a focus on both theoretical and applied aspects of literacy education, this program aims to foster competent literacy specialists ready for dynamic roles in education.

Why this course is highly recommended

The program is highly regarded for its strong faculty, small class sizes, and flexible scheduling, including online options and evening or Saturday classes. Its national accreditation and award-winning partnerships with local schools affirm its quality. The variety of career pathways, from classroom teaching to curriculum development and literacy coaching, makes it a versatile choice for those passionate about literacy. The program’s focus on real-world fieldwork and its reputation for exemplary teacher preparation add to its appeal, making it a compelling choice for aspiring literacy specialists seeking practical skills alongside academic excellence.

Course fees

Application fees

19.79L

1st year tuition fees

19.79L

Living cost

Degree requirements

English language test

DUOLINGO

100

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the SUNY Buffalo State admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of the program can pursue roles such as classroom teachers, reading teachers, literacy specialists, interventionists, and literacy coaches, working in public or private schools, after-school programs, or clinical settings. The demand for literacy specialists is supported by job growth predictions for related roles like special education and instructional coordinators. Salaries are comparable to these roles, with median annual earnings around $59,780 for related special education work, and opportunities also exist in adult education, curriculum development, education research, and writing fields. This broadening job outlook offers graduates a variety of meaningful career options in the literacy field.

FAQs

What kind of fieldwork is involved in the program?

Students are required to complete a summer practicum typically held at partner schools in the Western New York region.

Are classes offered online?

Yes, some classes are held 100 percent online, with others offered in the evenings, on Saturdays, or during summer days and evenings for flexible learning.