Introduction

This online certificate equips primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators with advanced skills in the development, assessment, and instruction of literacy for young learners. The certificate includes methods that help all learners, including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse, gain important literacy skills.

Program Overview

The University of Colorado Denver's Early Literacy certificate offers primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators advanced skills in the development, assessment and instruction of literacy for young learners. A primary focus of the program is on methods that will support the development of literacy skills for all learners - including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse.

The courses are offered fully online with numerous opportunities for interaction and dialogue with faculty and peers in the program. 

After completing the program, you will have the knowledge and skills necessary to create rich environments that envelop young learners in language and literacy development opportunities, both oral and written, setting young learners on a path to success and empowers them for a lifetime of learning.

Certificate Structure

This certificate totals 12 credit hours in the specialty area of early literacy. All courses are three graduate credit hours and may be applied directly toward a full master’s degree in Literacy while also fulfilling the requirements toward a Colorado Reading Specialist Endorsement. Additional courses and applications are required for the master’s degree and/or endorsement. Courses may be taken in any order and the certificate may be completed in one year.

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
LCRT 5795	Teaching and Learning with Diverse Children's Literature	3
LCRT 5710	Inclusive Early Literacy Development and Instruction	3
Choose two of the following:		6
LCRT 5020	Equity and Joy in Reading Instruction
LCRT 5720	Responsive Writing Instruction
LCRT 5810	Language and Literacy Use in Schools, Homes, and Communities
LCRT 5055	Literacy Assessment & Informed Instruction
Total Hours		12