Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12
Dobbs Ferry (Main Campus 66 acres), Manhattan, Bronx, United States
Master of Science in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12
Mercy University
Education — Literacy & Reading
Program Overview: M.S. in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12
The M.S. in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12 at Mercy University prepares candidates to be dually certified as a Literacy teacher in both Birth–Grade 6 and Grades 5–12. The program builds philosophical foundations alongside hands-on strategies for developing speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities across all grade levels.
Coursework covers the background and foundations of literacy, practices for emergent literacy, English language learners, teaching students with disabilities, child and adolescent literature, content area reading and writing, literacy assessment, and research techniques. The curriculum provides the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to meet the literacy needs of children in urban and suburban settings.
Mercy University's School of Education holds national accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is recognized by the International Literacy Association (ILA). The program is housed within the Department of Literacy and Multilingual Studies, which maintains strong relationships with elementary and secondary schools across New York City and Westchester County.
Key Program Highlights
- Dual certification in Literacy, Birth–Grade 6 and Literacy, Grades 5–12, expanding your career flexibility across all grade levels
- Foundational courses aligned with the Science of Reading, ensuring evidence-based instructional practices
- CAEP-accredited and ILA-recognized program with strong professional credentialing
- Hands-on fieldwork experiences in diverse New York City and Westchester school settings
Curriculum & Modules
The M.S. in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12 curriculum links theory and practice, preparing you to create environments conducive to literacy learning. Courses address literacy across developmental stages and diverse learner populations, with required fieldwork and a practicum component.
Approaches to Literacy Instruction in Early Childhood through Adolescence
3 creditsExamines foundational theories and methods of literacy instruction across age groups, from emergent readers to adolescent learners, with emphasis on evidence-based practices.
Language Development and Literacy Acquisition
3 creditsExplores how children develop language and acquire literacy skills, including the stages of oral and written language development and their implications for classroom instruction.
Literacy Instruction for Students with Disabilities
3 creditsFocuses on differentiated literacy strategies for students with learning disabilities and special needs, covering assessment-driven instruction and individualized support.
Teaching Writing and the Writing Process
3 creditsAddresses theories and pedagogical approaches for teaching writing across grade levels, including process-based writing instruction, conferencing, and portfolio assessment.
Child and Adolescent Literature
3 creditsSurveys genres and themes in literature for young readers and adolescents, emphasizing selection criteria, multicultural perspectives, and integration into literacy curricula.
Practicum in Literacy Assessment, All Grades
3 creditsProvides supervised clinical experience in administering, interpreting, and applying literacy assessments to inform instructional decision-making for diverse learners.
Elective & Specialization Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.S. in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12 program requires a completed bachelor's degree and a valid teaching certification. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu — contact us for personalized guidance through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university is required
- Teaching CertificationAn initial certification from New York State or an equivalent certification from another state is required prior to enrollment
- Minimum GPAContact Uni4Edu for current GPA requirements
- Content Specialty TestCandidates must pass the Content Specialty Test in Literacy within 27 credits of course registration
- Effective Educator StatementA written Effective Educator Statement must be submitted as part of the application
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score required for non-native English speakers; contact Uni4Edu for exact score requirements
- IELTSAccepted as proof of English proficiency; contact Uni4Edu for minimum band score
- Duolingo English TestAccepted as an alternative English proficiency measure; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Mercy University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable. The university maintains one of the lowest tuition rates among private four-year colleges in the New York region. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options available to you.
Mercy University Graduate Scholarship
Merit-based scholarship available to graduate students demonstrating strong academic performance. Eligibility and award amounts vary by program and enrollment status.
Federal and State Financial Aid
Varies based on eligibilityEligible students may qualify for federal loans, Pell Grants, and New York State aid programs. Mercy University has a strong track record of supporting students with financial need.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the M.S. in Teaching Literacy, Birth to Grade 12 are prepared for a wide range of literacy-focused roles in education. The national and state emphasis on literacy in education agendas means that elementary, middle, and high schools actively seek highly qualified literacy teachers and specialists.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Mercy University is a private institution founded in 1950, nationally recognized for its commitment to social mobility and accessible education. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and its School of Education holds CAEP national accreditation and recognition from the International Literacy Association (ILA).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Education (School of Education) | CAEP / ILA | Nationally Accredited & Recognized |
| Regional Universities North | U.S. News & World Report | #116 |
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | Top 17% in Northern Region |
| Nursing (Undergraduate) | U.S. News & World Report | #392 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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