Q: Do I need to hold a teaching certification to enter the program?
A: You can be accepted provisionally without certification, but you will be unable to register for the capstone experience (LIT 690/693) until you have proof of certification. Be aware of the timeframe required to get your initial certification prior to submitting your application.
Q: Can I pursue this master’s degree and earn only one certification in a shorter amount of time?
A: Our program was redesigned in 2018 to provide two certifications (Literacy Specialist in Birth- Grade 6 and Grades 5-12) in an efficient and effective way, making our graduates even more marketable in the teaching profession. The program is no longer intended to be split into individual certifications. Since 2022, there is a Literacy All Grades (Birth-12) certification in New York State, and the split-level certifications will eventually be phased out. Regardless of the NYS literacy certification you pursue, only one New York state test is required to earn certification.
Q: When is the deadline to apply?
A: Like other SUNY Cortland graduate programs, the Literacy MSED program’s admissions operate on a rolling admissions model. This means that any posted deadlines (e.g., Fall start: July 1; Summer start: April 1) are target dates that we would like to have your application on file. These deadlines allow the Literacy department plenty of time to review your application. Applicants are encouraged to submit their online application and all supporting documents as early as possible. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until a program is filled. Note that the program may be filled before the application deadline.
Q: How long will it take me to finish this program?
A: It depends on your decision to study part-time or full-time. Studying part time is ideal for practicing teachers or anyone working a full-time job. This means taking one or two classes at a time until you finish during the summer semester. This can take between two and three years. All classes are offered online, so you can continue to work while completing the degree program.
Studying full time, you can complete the entire program in one calendar year (e.g., fall, spring, summer). Please see the Sample Course Schedules page for more information.
Q: Do I have to study full time?
A: No. The program is designed to support both part-time and full-time students. We strongly encourage folks who are teaching or working another job full-time to attend the program part-time.
Q: When should I start the program if I want to study full time?
A: You should plan to apply to begin your program in the summer OR the fall semesters if you plan to attend full time. Please keep in mind that applicants for the Spring semester start will only be able to begin under a part time schedule. Applicants for the Summer and Fall semester starts can apply for either a full time schedule or a part time schedule. If admitted, you will work with your advisor to design a degree pathway that works for you. We strongly encourage part-time applications for practicing teachers or those with full-time jobs.
Q: When should I contact my advisor?
A: Advisor information will be provided once you make your deposit acknowledgement with Graduate Admissions. Contact your advisor the moment you receive this information from Graduate Admissions. Not every course is available every semester, so we encourage registration as soon as possible.