In Master's Programs

Language & Literacy Option

Application Page (.pdf)
Application Instructions

Graduate Adviser: Dr. Mira Pak

For teachers interested in learning about the ever-evolving world of literacy, this option explores current literacy theories and classroom practices relevant to the 21^st century literacy needs of today’s students. This program focuses on traditional literacies, multiple literacies, cultural and community literacies, and critical literacies. Teachers who have a passion for literacy and for supporting all students in becoming successful readers, writers, thinkers and speakers will find this program to be a great choice. Through clinical experiences in the Literacy Center on campus and experiences within actual classroom settings, CSUN students are involved in learning, assessing and creating literacy programs and experiences that engage and support all students. Two of the courses provide clinical settings for assessing and assisting children who have been identified as struggling readers in their schools.

The courses provided in this program also meet most of the requirements needed for the Reading and Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential and many students elect to complete the requirements for both their Master’s Degree and Reading and Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential simultaneously.

For more information about our MA program, please contact: eed@csun.edu or call 818.677.2621

Admission Prerequisites
Admission to the University through Cal State Apply Preliminary teaching credential Bachelor’s Degree from regionally-accredited institution Department Application ENGL 405 Language Difference and Language Change (if determined by Graduate Advisor)

Classified Status & Degree Requirements
Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher or a university-approved aptitude test for graduate study (GRE or MAT) Successful completion of the Upper Division Writing Proficiency Examination To remain in the program, students must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA and cannot earn a grade lower than a B- in any class. Note: A co-requisite for the M.A. in Elementary Education Degree is a clear teaching credential.

Classified Status & Degree Requirements

Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher or a university-approved aptitude test for graduate study (GRE or MAT)
Successful completion of the Upper Division Writing Proficiency Examination
To remain in the program, students must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA and cannot earn a grade lower than a B- in any class.

Note: A co-requisite for the M.A. in Elementary Education Degree is a clear teaching credential.

Core Courses (9 Units)
*EED 601 Curriculum, Instruction and the Reflective Teacher
*EED 602 Applying Technology to Curricular Goals
EED 610 Research in Education
*Taken first semester in all program options

Required Courses (20 units)
EED 625A/AL Literacy Instruction and Assessment
EED 625B/BL Literacy Instruction & Assessment
EED 626 Literacy Instruction for English Learners (K – 12)
EED 628 Language and Literacy Programs: Leadership, Planning and Evaluation
EED 633 Language Arts Seminar
EED 668 Foundations of Literacy: Theory and Practice

Culminating Experience (3 units)
EED 697 Directed Comprehensive Studies OR EED 698 Thesis or Thesis Project

For anyone wishing to obtain the Reading Specialist Credential, you will need to do all of the above plus:

EPC 684 or EED 611
SPED 671

Program Completion Directions

Reading & Literacy Added Authorization

Ensure that you have applied for the RLAA
Submit verification of employment (3 years experience) to CSUN’s Credential Office

Reading, Literacy & Leadership Specialist Credential

Ensure that you are enrolled in the RLLSC Credential Option
Complete course verification form*
Complete portfolio*
- Portfolio Criteria
- Portfolio Rubric
Complete the credential request form
Submit verification of employment (3 years experience) to CSUN’s Credential Office

After submission of course verification form and RLLSC portfolio, please allow up to 20 days for review. Once review of the portfolio and course verification is complete, candidates will be notified if they need to make revisions, or if they have successfully completed the portfolio and course verification form via email. Successful candidate materials (course verification form, and portfolio) will be automatically submitted to the CSUN Credential Office.

*Course Verification Form & RLLSC Portfolio should be submitted via CANVAS to Dr. Dominic Grasso, Literacy Director, at Dominic.Grasso@csun.edu

Candidates are responsible for completing the verification of employment, as well as program completion form on their own through the credential office.