Introduction

The University of Colorado Denver’s MA in Literacy Education with Reading Specialist endorsement program prepares transformative and innovative literacy specialists and leaders who are highly skilled to support and advocate for the learning and literacy needs of diverse K-12 student populations. Teachers exiting the program will draw on anti-bias, inclusive, and science of reading supported pedagogies. Graduates will be equipped to coach teachers to advance children’s learning in reading, writing and oral language skills with deep knowledge in supporting multilingual learners. Graduates will be prepared to positively impact the students, families, schools, and communities they serve.

Program Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Literacy Core Courses
LCRT 5810	Language and Literacy Use in Schools, Homes, and Communities	3
LCRT 5020	Equity and Joy in Reading Instruction	3
LCRT 5055	Literacy Assessment & Informed Instruction	3
LCRT 6910	Practicum in Literacy Leadership	3
LCRT 5710	Inclusive Early Literacy Development and Instruction	3
LCRT 5720	Responsive Writing Instruction	3
LCRT 5795	Teaching and Learning with Diverse Children's Literature (OR)	3
or LCRT 5201	Teaching and Learning with Diverse Adolescent Literature
LCRT 5730	Disciplinary Language and Literacy	3
SPED 5140	Assessment: Inquiry, Instruction, & Intervention	3
or SPED 5780	Literacy Intervention for Exceptional Learners
LCRT 6915	Inquiry, Advocacy, and Teacher Research (Comprehensive Exam)	3
Portfolio – completed and submitted the semester of graduation
Total Hours		30

Cumulative Portfolio

The MA portfolio fulfills the comprehensive exam requirement for the master's degree. The portfolio is an accumulation of the performance based assessments completed during program courses and reflects on the student's development over the course of the degree program. The final portfolio is due approximately 6 weeks before graduation, and it is usually completed during LCRT 6915.

Program Requirements and Courses

To complete the Literacy Education program and earn a master's degree and endorsement, students must complete the appropriate course work as outlined.  All courses require a grade of B- or better and a 3.0 minimum GPA is required for graduation.

Course Scheduling

During the fall and spring semesters, most courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening and meet for three hours once a week over a 16-week semester. Courses are offered in various formats, including hybrid or online classes. In the summer semester, most courses include eight-week sessions, and courses may be in the morning, afternoon or evening.

Note: Courses are subject to modification given changes in Colorado Department of Education standards.

Planning

For practicing full-time teachers, we recommend taking one course each fall and spring semester, and up to two courses each summer. Plan carefully because some courses are only offered once a year.

Active Status

Students must complete their programs within seven years, maintaining a GPA of 3.0. Students typically take four courses each calendar year. Failure to enroll over three contiguous semesters will result in a requirement to submit readmission materials.