Introduction

This online certificate equips primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators with advanced skills in the development, assessment, and instruction of literacy for young learners. The certificate includes methods that help all learners, including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse, gain important literacy skills.

Program Overview

Developing early literacy skills is a crucial step in children's growth and development. Early literacy instruction is a national focus, and for good reason. Studies show that students who are not reading on grade level by fourth grade have decreased chances of graduating from high school. Students need educators who can help them grow their reading skills at an early age as a way of preparing them for a successful future.

The University of Colorado Denver's Early Literacy certificate offers primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators advanced skills in the development, assessment and instruction of literacy for young learners. You will explore methods that will help all learners - including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse - gain important literacy skills.

Even though these courses are offered online, participants still become part of a learning community. You will learn and share with like-minded peers and form lasting relationships with colleagues as you learn and grow together.

After completing the program, you will have the knowledge and skills necessary to create rich environments that envelop young learners in language and literacy development opportunities, both oral and written. You will be the guide who sets young learners on a path to success and empowers them for a lifetime of learning.

Certificate Structure

This certificate totals 12 credit hours in the specialty area of early literacy. All courses are three graduate credit hours and may be applied directly toward a full master’s degree in Literacy while also fulfilling the requirements toward a Colorado Reading Specialist Endorsement. Additional courses and applications are required for the master’s degree and/or endorsement. Courses may be taken in any order and the certificate may be completed in one year.

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
LCRT 5795	Teaching and Learning with Diverse Children's Literature	3
LCRT 5710	Inclusive Early Literacy Development and Instruction	3
Choose two of the following:		6
LCRT 5020	Equity and Joy in Reading Instruction
LCRT 5720	Responsive Writing Instruction
LCRT 5810	Language and Literacy Use in Schools, Homes, and Communities
LCRT 5055	Literacy Assessment & Informed Instruction
Total Hours		12