Literacy and Language Certificate Leading to Licensure as a Reading Specialist
Overview
The Literacy and Language Certificate is designed for educators with an initial license in another subject matter area and wish to become licensed as a reading specialist.
This program complements the credentials of classroom teachers, special educators, speech-language pathologists, administrators, psychologists, and private tutors.
With its foundation in spoken language development, the program is relevant for educators of students who are second language learners and those with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
The Literacy and Language Certificate program at MGH Institute is one of a select number of programs that is nationally accredited by the International Dyslexia Association for meeting their Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading.
This comprehensive 20 credit reading program:
- Starts multiple times each year, each fall semester and other times.
- Allows flexible course schedules designed to accommodate busy professionals.
- Includes both clinical and school-based practica. Most students complete the program in 18 months, on a part-time basis.
Curricular Goals for the Literacy and Language Certificate Leading to Licensure as a Reading Specialist
The Literacy and Language Certificate program places emphasis on how language development relates to reading proficiency and communication disorders. In the context of the latest evidence-based research, you will:
- Become proficient in providing reading instruction for all students
- Learn the most effective classroom screening instruments and individual diagnostic literacy tests
- Develop the skills associated with interdisciplinary case consultation skills
- Be prepared to take on a literacy leadership position
- Complete requirements leading to Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) endorsement through MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
A major goal of the program is to develop you as a literacy leader who is able to leverage your knowledge and experience in order to improve reading and writing practices in schools and health care settings.
See the program's application process and requirements for more information. The Literacy and Language Certificate is in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Educators who wish to schedule an Information Session at their school or have specific questions about the program may contact the Literacy and Language Certificate program director, Melissa Feller, at mfeller@mghihp.edu