Master of Arts in Education: Literacy Specialist Endorsement Track (MAEd)

Rosie Young, Ed.D., Chair
Nolen C. Allen Hall 321, Phone 502.272.8447, ryoung@bellarmine.edu

Bellarmine University’s Master of Arts in Education degree with Literacy Specialist Certification (Grades P-12) offers educators an in-depth study of teaching, learning, and literacy leadership. The certification across all grade levels will allow the classroom teacher to explore literacy issues related to elementary, middle, and high school students with an emphasis on issues related to struggling readers. In addition, the candidate will examine theoretical models and processes of literacy, investigating the political underpinnings of literacy in America.

Candidates who complete the Literacy Specialist Certification (Grades P-12) may choose to remain a highly qualified classroom teacher of reading and writing, may elect to serve as the literacy leader in their school, become the school’s reading coach, or apply for a district level literacy resource position.

The certification will be granted upon successfully completing all literacy related coursework including a required practicum. For certification, candidates must successfully pass the required PRAXIS exam. (see details below under certification).

The Master of Arts in Education degree with Literacy Specialist Certification is offered in an online delivery format.

Requirements for Admission

• Evidence the applicant is currently working in a formal or informal education setting. Applicants seeking a Teacher Leadership endorsement, Literacy Leadership certification, or rank change (Rank II or I, for example) must submit a copy of their state approved teaching certificate.

• Official transcripts from each college/institution attended.

• A cumulative grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale, or a grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale on the last thirty (30) hours of credit completed, including undergraduate and graduate coursework.

• Completion of Educational Autobiography/ Personal Goals Statement. (Used to assess critical thinking, communication, creativity and professional dispositions.)

• Two completed references from current school principal or designee and supervisor familiar with the candidate’s work. (Used to assess critical thinking, communication, creativity, collaboration and professional dispositions.)

• Signed copy of Professional Code of Ethics for Kentucky School Certified Personnel.

• If your undergraduate degree is from an international institution, you were born outside the United States, or English is your second language, you will be required to submit an official TOEFLiBT (internet-based test) score and receive a total score of 80 or higher. We will also consider an equivalent score on the IELTS or MELAB tests. The School of Education reserves the right to require a TOEFL score from any applicant.