Touro University's Master of Literacy program equips experienced teachers with the knowledge and skills to enhance literacy instruction for students of all backgrounds. Through a hybrid format and fieldwork experience, the program emphasizes individualized instruction, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration to prepare graduates for careers as literacy specialists, interventionists, and educational consultants.

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master of Literacy program at Touro University's Graduate School of Education is designed to equip experienced teachers with the tools and knowledge they need to develop and improve literacy skills in students of all backgrounds.

Objectives:

• Enhance teachers' understanding of the basics of reading instruction and child development in cultural context.
• Equip teachers with the skills and strategies to tailor instruction to meet the individual needs of students with varying learning abilities.
• Enable teachers to work effectively with students who have reading and writing disabilities.
• Foster teachers' understanding of the socio-cultural factors that affect student learning.
• Prepare teachers to work collaboratively with other educators to improve student outcomes.

Program Description:

The 36-credit program is academically intensive and interdisciplinary. It includes 6 hours of fieldwork experience, providing students with the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world classroom settings. Students will gain competency in working with struggling students and develop strategies for reaching into or pulling out of the class to provide individualized support. The program also emphasizes the importance of teacher development and provides opportunities for teachers to enhance their own skills and knowledge. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to apply for NYS-certification in teaching literacy.

Outline:

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics related to literacy instruction, including:

• The basics of reading instruction
• Child development in cultural context
• Identification and assessment of reading and writing disabilities
• Development of individualized instruction plans
• Strategies for working with students with diverse learning needs
• The socio-cultural factors that affect student learning
• Collaboration with other educators

Structure:

The program is typically completed in 18-24 months. Courses are offered in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and in-person instruction. The fieldwork experience is an integral part of the program and provides students with the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world classroom settings.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule varies depending on the student's individual needs and the availability of courses. However, the following courses are typically required:

• Foundations of Literacy
• Assessment and Intervention for Reading and Writing Disabilities
• Literacy Instruction in Culturally Diverse Settings
• Practicum in Literacy Instruction
• Seminar in Literacy Education

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Written assignments
• Quizzes
• Exams
• Presentations
• Fieldwork evaluations

Assessment Criteria:

Students are assessed on their knowledge of the course content, their ability to apply their learning to real-world settings, and their overall professional development.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group projects
• Fieldwork experiences
• Online learning modules

Faculty:

The faculty in the program are experienced educators and researchers with a passion for literacy education. They are committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful teachers.

Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and provides students with multiple opportunities to apply their learning in real-world classroom settings. The program also has a strong focus on collaboration, both among students and between students and faculty.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in literacy education, including:

• Literacy Specialist
• Reading Interventionist
• Literacy Coach
• Curriculum Developer
• Educational Consultant

Job Opportunities:

Graduates of the program are employed in a variety of settings, including:

• Schools
• Non-profit organizations
• Government agencies
• Private businesses

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the program report high levels of satisfaction with their career choices and report that they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of teaching literacy in today's classrooms.

Touro University

Overview:

Touro University is a private, non-profit institution with a global network of over 98,000 alumni. Founded in 1971, it has grown to encompass 36 schools across various locations in the United States and internationally. Touro University emphasizes career-focused education, blending knowledge and values while maintaining a small school atmosphere.

Services Offered:

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused education:

Touro University prioritizes preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Diverse program offerings:

With 36 schools and 246 programs, students have a wide range of academic options to choose from.

Small school vibe:

Despite its size, Touro University strives to maintain a close-knit community feel.

Global reach:

Touro University has campuses across the United States and internationally, providing students with opportunities for diverse experiences.

Academic Programs:

Touro University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Medicine
• Education
• Law
• Business
• Health Sciences
• Arts and Sciences

Other:

• Touro University has a strong commitment to its Jewish heritage and values.
• The institution has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship.
• Touro University provides financial aid to 83% of its undergraduate students.
• The university has a strong focus on social responsibility and actively engages in initiatives related to antisemitism and bias.