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The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences: Certificates:
Graduate Certificate in Elementary Reading and Literacy

This program is not currently accepting new students. Current students must complete their programs of study in accordance with Walden’s Time-to-Degree Completion policies.

The Graduate Certificate in Elementary Reading and Literacy prepares educators to provide developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive literacy instruction to P–6 students of diverse abilities and backgrounds. Courses examine assessment methods, resources, and instructional strategies required to support beginning P–3 readers and developing readers in grades 4–6 by using the five pillars of reading as an organizational framework (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension). To support English-language learners (ELLs), educators examine the second-language acquisition process, learn to assess literacy proficiency, and select appropriate instruction materials. Educators learn to assess progress and differentiate instruction for both struggling and gifted readers. Effective collaboration skills are emphasized throughout the coursework. Credits earned from this certificate program may be applied toward Walden’s MS in Education with a specialization in Elementary Reading and Literacy (P–6).

*Walden University’s Graduate Certificate in Elementary Reading and Literacy does not lead to certification or licensure in elementary reading and literacy. Walden makes no representation, warranty, guarantee, or commitment that successful completion of this program or coursework for graduate credit within this program will permit a graduate to obtain state certification or licensure as an elementary reading and literacy teacher.

Note on Endorsement, Licensure, or Certification

This program does not lead to an endorsement, certification, or licensure. Walden makes no representation, warranty, guarantee, or commitment that successful completion of this program or coursework for graduate credit within this program will permit a graduate to obtain state certification or licensure.

The graduate degree program and coursework within the program in which you are enrolling may be accepted by many states toward upgrading or renewing a license or obtaining a salary increase (depending on state or district policy). Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement. Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on program requirements; however, it remains the individual’s responsibility to understand and comply with all state and school district requirements.

Certificate Requirements

  • 15 total semester credits

Curriculum

  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.

Course Sequence

The recommended course sequence is as follows:

Semester Course Credits
Semester 1

READ 6705 - Reading and Literacy Today

3 semester credits

READ 6706 - Literacy Development P–3

3 semester credits
Semester 2

READ 6707 - Reading and Literacy Growth Grades 4–6

3 semester credits

READ 6708 - Literacy in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Classrooms

3 semester credits
Semester 3

READ 6709 - Literacy in Academically Diverse Classrooms

3 semester credits