About the Program

The online M.Ed. in Literacy Education with a concentration in Literacy Specialist is for educators who want to deepen their expertise and expand their impact as literacy specialists, coaches, curriculum leaders, and other educational professionals. This 36-credit program emphasizes the collaborative nature of the literacy specialist and the key role this interventionist plays in supporting schools’ literacy needs. The curriculum includes coursework in literacy development, educational research, multilingualism, and evidence-based reading interventions. Through this program, you’ll gain the knowledge and practical skills to support diverse learners and strengthen literacy instruction across K–12 schools. 

This program also leads to Maine Pathway 1 certification as a K–12 Literacy Specialist (092 endorsement), opening new opportunities for career advancement and educational leadership.

The curriculum explores how learners develop literacy skills and how to design, deliver, and assess effective instruction that meets the diverse needs of all students. The program aligns with Maine Department of Education requirements for Literacy Specialist and other professional certifications, as well as the standards established by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), the International Literacy Association (ILA), and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

This program is divided into three phases and should be completed in order. Electives can be taken at any time.

This degree is designed to guide experienced educators toward a deeper understanding of literacy education, including establishing a firm foundation in K-12 students in how print works and the strategic behaviors that lead to successful reading and writing. Graduates develop a strong understanding of the demands of current literacy curricula and have gone on to become leaders in their schools and communities. 

Career paths include becoming literacy specialists, curriculum coordinators, and literacy coaches in school, as well as K-12 and nonprofit administrators with a strong understanding of the demands of current literacy curricula.

This program also leads to Maine Pathway 1 certification as a K–12 Literacy Specialist (092 endorsement). Specific information regarding Maine certification is available through the Maine Department of Education.

This program will prepare students to be eligible for licensure within the State of Maine. Visit the UMS State Authorization & Licensure page to learn more about licensure requirements in other states and territories and to find the contact information needed to inquire further about this program’s licensure requirements.