Literacy Education
Empower learners and celebrate diversity in a collaborative, inclusive academic community. Blending practice, theory, and research in a cohesive program, we offer courses, certificates, and a master’s degree for practicing teachers. Learn more about Literacy Education.
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Implement literacy instruction to meet the needs of all learners
Aligned with the International Literacy Association’s Professional Standards, our curriculum integrates research and evidence-based practices.
View our course format schedule
We offer a blend of online and on-campus courses. On-campus courses are held on weekdays in the late afternoon.
Highlights
Serving the education community: Reading & Writing Workshop
Every summer, eager K-8 learners join our master’s students for an innovative literacy program. You won’t find this unique practicum experience anywhere else.
Complete your degree or certificate in less than two years
There is no GRE admission requirement, and you can begin your studies in the fall, spring, or summer. Study part-time or full-time.
Our MSEd graduates earn above-average Praxis scores
Graduates of our Master’s of Science in Education program consistently exceed the required passing scores on the Praxis Subject Assessment.
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Graduate Certificate: Advance your practice in teaching literacy
Gain the skills to plan effective literacy instruction. Credits earned in this program can be transferred toward the master’s degree.
MS in Education: Earn your Literacy Specialist certification
Improve literacy instruction at your school. Our state-approved master’s program leads to Maine’s Literacy Specialist license (092).
Post-Master's Certificate: Take on a leadership role
Our self-designed program is ideal for classroom teachers, administrators, and other educators and can lead to Maine’s Literacy Specialist license (092).
Our alumni: Maine Teachers of the Year
In our learner-centered professional community, we blend tradition with innovation to explore the challenges that readers and writers face today.
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Southern Maine Writing Project
As the hosts of this National Writing Project affiliate, we partner with regional education professionals to extend our reach into the community.
Connect with us!
Questions about our program? We would love to tell you more about the benefits of graduate study at the University of Southern Maine!
News
Foerster ’22 researches the positive effects of reading to people with Alzheimer’s disease
Southern Maine Writing Project Summer 2020 Young Authors Camps Cancelled
USM's Summer Reading and Writing Workshop Turns 50
USM Alumna Named 2019 York County Teacher of the Year
TESOL and Literacy Students and Alumnae Getting Published
USM TESOL is a 2019-2020 Boren Fellow Recipient
USM Alumna Named 2020 Maine Teacher of the Year
