Ed. S. and Ed.D. Reading, Language and Literacy

Program Overview

The Ed.S. and Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning's Reading, Language, and Literacy (RLL) major prepares individuals to become literacy leaders and specialized professionals. The program emphasizes equity-focused, theoretical, and practical courses, empowering graduates to make crucial changes toward equity within the field of literacy. Graduates pursue leadership positions in schools, districts, higher education, and advanced clinical settings, actively conducting and disseminating research on a range of literacy topics.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Program Overview:

• The Ed.S.
and Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning’s Reading, Language, and Literacy (RLL) major is designed for individuals with a Master’s degree who seek to become literacy leaders and specialized professionals.
• The program's blend of equity-focused, theoretical, and practical courses prepares highly competent professionals who make crucial changes toward equity within the field of literacy.
• The RLL major encourages students to explore broad issues in literacy education, as well as delve deeply into an area(s) of specialization.
• Graduates of this program also know how to connect research on language, cognition, and learning and design into their classroom instruction.
• The Ed.S.
and Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning RLL major empowers educators to lead literacy efforts and address issues in the field by establishing a strong research base in literacy curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development practices.
• Many of our graduates pursue literacy leadership positions in schools, districts, higher education, and advanced clinical settings.
• Our alumni are committed to actively conducting and disseminating research on a range of literacy topics.

Objectives:

• The program's primary emphasis is to develop literacy professionals with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to:
• Critically engage with literacy and language issues from racial and social justice frameworks
• Understand the historical and contemporary foundations of literacy instruction
• Analyze cultural and linguistic practices in diverse settings
• Develop and implement research-based literacy practices
• Lead and facilitate literacy professional learning
• Conduct research and disseminate scholarship to inform the field of literacy

Outline:

• Program Content:
• The Ed.D.
in Reading and Literacy requires 63 SH of coursework, a qualifying paper, and dissertation for program completion
• 52 semester hours for Ed.S.
completion
• 63 semester hours for Ed.D.
completion
• 69 semester hours for Ed.D.
double major
• Program Structure:
• The program is delivered through a hybrid of face-to-face meetings and online coursework, allowing students to choose which method of learning is best for them.
• Students will participate in residencies (intensive in-person meetings), which provide opportunities for networking, team building, and high-impact instruction.
• The program emphasizes the value of a collaborative and supportive community, where students learn and grow from both peers and faculty, building lasting connections and relationships.
• Course Schedule:
• The course schedule for the Ed.D.
in Reading and Literacy is structured to allow students flexibility and customization. Students can select courses that align with their interests, career goals, and research interests.
• Individual Modules with Descriptions:
• Foundational Courses (21SH):
• RLD 600 Language, Linguistics, and Literacy (3SH): Examines the nature of language and linguistics and how they relate to literacy development and instruction.
• RLD 601 Research in Early Literacy (3SH): Explores the theoretical and empirical foundations of early literacy development to support effective instruction from preschool through grade 6.
• RLD 602 Literacy Comprehension: Research and Application (3SH): Investigates models and theories of reading comprehension to support effective instructional practices across content areas and grade levels.
• RLD 606 Instruction and Staff Development in Reading and Language (3SH): Examines principles of effective literacy instruction and professional development to support the development of literacy educators and coaches in K-12 schools and other educational settings.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Students engage with diverse instructional methodologies including:
• Collaborative learning activities
• Project-based learning experiences
• Fieldwork opportunities
• Action research projects
• Case study analysis
• Emphasis is placed on transformative and collaborative learning experiences, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and the development of innovative approaches to literacy education and research.

Faculty:

• Faculty members possess a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of literacy, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications to provide a rigorous and relevant learning experience.
• They are committed to student success, fostering a supportive learning environment, and engaging with students in meaningful ways.
• The faculty is actively engaged in research and professional development, bringing the latest advances in literacy to the forefront of their teaching.

Unique Approaches:

• The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches to learning, recognizing the interconnectedness of literacy with other areas of education.
• Students have opportunities to personalize their learning experiences by selecting electives that align with their interests and career aspirations.
• The program values real-world application, providing opportunities for students to engage in practical experiences that bridge theory with practice and contribute to their professional growth.
• Through the integration of technology, students develop proficiency in using digital tools for teaching, learning, and research, preparing them for the evolving landscape of literacy education and research.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths and Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates for leadership roles within the fields of literacy and educational leadership, creating pathways to diverse career opportunities.
• Potential career paths include:
• Literacy coach
• Literacy specialist
• Reading interventionist
• Curriculum and instructional coordinator
• Educational consultant
• Teacher leader
• Assistant principal
• Principal
• Superintendent

Outcomes:

• Graduates of the Ed.S.
and Ed.D. in Reading, Language, and Literacy program become transformative literacy leaders with the knowledge, skills, and disposition to advance literacy practices, conduct innovative research, and contribute meaningfully to the field.