Master of Science in Literacy and English Language Learners Online

Yes! There is a strong and growing demand for literacy and ELL specialists, especially in New York State. Many schools face shortages of qualified teachers in literacy and bilingual education. Children and adolescents, including ELLs, who do not meet literacy benchmarks are at a disadvantage academically and later in life, so schools are actively seeking trained professionals to address these gaps.

The program prepares certified teachers to provide literacy assessments, interventions, and support for all learners, with a special focus on English Language Learners (ELLs). Students gain expertise in evidence-based literacy instruction, socio-linguistic issues, and culturally responsive teaching practices.

Graduates are eligible for two (2) New York State initial certifications as:

• Literacy Specialist, Birth–Grade 12
• ESOL/ESL Teacher, Birth–Grade 12

All of these courses are offered fully online and designed for working professionals, with many courses scheduled in the evening to fit around your workday. You may enroll full-time or part-time and plan your course load at your own pace. Most students complete the program in 1.5–3 years, depending on course load.

Graduates may work as:

• Literacy Specialists
• ESOL/ELL Teachers
• Literacy Coaches or Coordinators
• Curriculum Developers or Instructional Leaders

A literacy specialist is an educator with advanced training in reading and writing instruction. They assess students’ literacy skills, provide targeted support for struggling readers and writers, and collaborate with teachers to strengthen classroom instruction. Literacy specialists also help design school-wide literacy programs, engage families in supporting literacy at home, and serve as instructional leaders within schools.

ESOL teachers help multilingual learners build English skills and succeed in school. A typical day includes teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening; working with classroom teachers to adapt lessons; and providing small-group or one-on-one support. ESOL teachers also draw on students’ first languages and cultures and serve as mentors to help students adjust and thrive in their new communities.

Yes. All students must complete fieldwork as part of the program. Pre-practicum hours may be completed through Niagara’s Family Literacy Center if you are in the Western New York area, or if you are online or already teaching, within your own classroom or local school district. In your final semester, you will also complete a practicum, supervised by a veteran school faculty member selected collaboratively by you, your district, and the university. This practicum gives you the opportunity to apply your learning while further developing professional knowledge and skills in literacy instruction.

All students must complete placement hours, but there is flexibility in how you can meet this requirement. If you are a full-time teacher and already teach literacy, your current classroom hours may count toward the requirement. If literacy is not part of your teaching, you can fulfill the hours by arranging to observe or assist a colleague who does. Many students complete these hours before or after school, during planning periods, or over lunch, making it possible to meet the requirement without disrupting your job or other commitments.