Program Overview

Language and Literacy, M.Ed.

College of Education

Educators with a passion for literacy and languages can enhance their teaching qualifications through our 100 percent online program with a concentration in multi-literacy or English for speakers of other languages.

Become a highly qualified literacy professional who knows how to assess individual readers and writers and develop curricula to meet their needs. Engage in a blend of theoretical, field and research-based experiences with a focus on diverse learners and evolving conceptions of literacy in 21st-century schools.

Program Highlights

• Teach and Evaluate: Develop reading and literacy plans, teach and evaluate instruction in reading or writing for students at all levels.
• Coach and Support: Improve classroom instruction as a literacy coach by supporting teacher learning and facilitating literacy programs.
• Specialize and Lead: Develop, lead and evaluate school or district literacy programs as a literacy specialist or coordinator.
• Support ESOL Students: Instruct bilingual students and prepare them for cultural and academic success as a bilingual teacher.

What You’ll Study

Courses cover theories and methods for teaching literacy, reading and writing assessment with students in a practicum setting and developing literacy curricula to meet student needs. Learn how to incorporate digital and other media into classroom instruction, and work with families, communities and schools to develop literacy programs.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments
• Cultural Awareness: Learning about and respecting diverse cultures and beliefs
• Leadership: Inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals and reach their full potential
• Teaching: Foster learning by conveying knowledge, skills and concepts to students
• Multicultural Awareness: Understanding cultural variation and adapting behaviors and communication styles accordingly
• Problem Solving: Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

• Literacy Specialist
• Literacy Coach
• ESOL Teacher/Coordinator
• Literacy Teacher
• Bilingual Teacher

Job Titles of Alumni

• Teacher
• Literacy Coach
• Literacy Specialist
• Media Specialist
• Professional Development Specialist
• Certified Child Life Specialist

Workplace Settings

• Education
• Health Care
• Government
• Nonprofits

Employers of Alumni

• Lexington-Richland School District Five
• Richland School District Two
• Charleston County School District
• Charter Schools USA
• College of Charleston
• University of South Carolina

Because of the program, and USC, I feel confident to enter the classroom this fall as a first-year teacher with more experience and knowledge.

Sarah Campbell