Introduction

This online certificate offers primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators greater background in the development, assessment and instruction of literacy for young children, native speakers of English and English language learners. Administrators and intermediate-grade teachers have also found this program to be a great way to solidify their understandings of initial literacy development to help them best meet the needs of struggling learners in the upper grades.

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 9 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 5210	Literacy Development Pre K-3rd Grade	3
LCRT 5220	Literacy Routines and Assessment, Pre K-3rd Grade	3
LCRT 5230	Early Literacy Instruction	3
Total Hours		9