Program Overview

DEGREE TYPE
Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) – Literacy
DEPARTMENT
Education
Department Chair Name
George Lipscomb
Program Coordinator
Katie Kelly

What is a master of arts in education – literacy?

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” – Frederick Douglass, statesman, abolitionist, orator and former enslaved person

An M.A.Ed. in literacy is a master’s program for educators seeking to grow as literacy teachers and literacy leaders. A master’s in literacy is designed to teach current theory and trends in literacy research, as well as effective instructional practices to meet the needs of diverse learners.

Why pursue an M.A.Ed. in literacy at Furman?

Furman’s master’s in literacy prepares teachers to meet students across all grade levels and curricula at their current aptitude on order to foster growth and a love of reading and communication.

In in a dual-certification program, the M.A.Ed. in literacy opens doors to an array of careers in education. Upon completion of the program and passing the Praxis exam, graduates will become certified K-12 literacy teachers. Candidates with a cumulative five years’ teaching experience who complete the literacy M.A.Ed. program may also gain certification as a literacy coach.

Furman’s International Literacy Association-accredited master’s offers a curriculum that allows you to earn your M.A.Ed. without interrupting your current teaching role. Backed by more than 100 years of experience, Furman’s nationally recognized Department of Education started South Carolina’s first teacher residency program. Partner with some of the most respected and caring professors and practitioners in education. Learn more about graduate studies in education and how to apply.

How will you learn?

Master’s candidates at Furman learn about literacy development beginning with early childhood through adolescent-level learners as well as supporting adult-level learners. A rigorous curriculum, including instructional practices, assessment approaches and two practicum experiences, brings opportunities to apply knowledge and skills in classroom settings, exposing candidates to diverse learners across grade levels.

With a focus on sustainable, culturally relevant and responsive approaches to teaching and learning, Furman’s master’s in literacy program is committed to supporting candidates’ abilities to honor pedagogies that center individual students and underscore the value they bring to society. Take your first steps with a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus.

Note: This program of study will be fully online starting in Fall 2023.

M.A.Ed. in literacy courses: What will you study?

Sample courses include:

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  • 35%
    4th-graders who perform at or above proficient in reading according to the Nation’s Report Card
  • 43 mil.
    U.S. adults who cannot read, write or do basic math above a third-grade level
  • $3k-$3.5k
    Typical pay increase for South Carolina teachers who hold a master’s degree and/or earn +30 credits
  • 100-plus
    Years the Furman Department of Education has prepared teachers

What our students say

“Earning my Masters in Education through the Literacy program has been transformative. The professors believed in and encouraged me when I doubted myself and my ability to complete the program as a full-time educator. They taught with expertise and compassion. I am able to teach young readers with an intentionality that is supported by research-based practices.”
- Channon Reid M’23, 2nd Grade Teacher, Grove Elementary School, Greenville County Schools

Our faculty

Katie Kelly

Associate Professor, Education; Coord., Literacy Education

Paul Thomas

Professor, Education; English and Secondary Education

Kay Goodwin

Associate Director, Graduate Studies
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Education Master of Arts – Literacy F.A.Q.

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