Earn your advanced credential in reading with our flexible and affordable program. As the largest teacher preparation program in the state, Southern plays a leadership role in educator preparation and professional development.
Candidates who are already certified as a reading specialist (102) but are not seeking a Sixth Year degree can take only the courses required for certification as a reading and language arts consultant. These courses provide the knowledge and skills needed to improve school-wide literacy through program development, leadership, and coaching. Depending on the coursework completed for the reading specialist certification (102), you will take three to five courses (9–15 credits) in this program. These courses focus on program and professional development, leadership, intervention planning, and coaching.
The Post-Master’s Certificate does not lead to an advanced degree.
Careers
The Reading and Language Arts Consultant, Post-Master’s Certificate prepares educators for leadership roles focused on literacy development and instructional improvement. Graduates often pursue careers as reading and language arts consultants at the school, district, or state level, where they design curriculum, support teachers, and guide literacy interventions. They may work as literacy coaches, instructional coordinators, or professional development specialists. These roles involve analyzing student data, implementing evidence-based strategies, and shaping schoolwide literacy programs. This certificate also enhances qualifications for leadership positions in curriculum and instruction, and may lead to opportunities in educational publishing, assessment development, or teacher preparation programs.
Typical Job Titles
- Reading and Language Arts Consultant
- Literacy Coach
- Instructional Coach
- Reading Specialist
- Curriculum Specialist – Literacy
- Literacy Intervention Coordinator
- District Literacy Coordinator
- Title I Reading Coordinator
- Professional Development Facilitator – Literacy
- Academic Support Specialist – Language Arts
- K-12 ELA Instructional Leader
Accreditation
Accredited by the International Literacy Association and the International Dyslexia Association.