Graduate Certificate in Early Literacy
Cultivate foundational literacy skills in young learners and empower their educational journeys with CU Denver’s online Early Literacy Certificate.
The Early Literacy Graduate Certificate provides educators with advanced knowledge and practical skills to foster literacy development in children from preschool through third grade.
- Designed for primary and preschool teachers, para-educators, and administrators.
- Focus on literacy development for diverse learners, including English language learners and children with special needs.
- Courses can be applied toward the Colorado Reading Teacher Endorsement.
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Degree LevelGraduate Certificate -
School & CollegeSchool of Education & Human Development -
Total Credit Hours9 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview
This certificate totals 9 credit hours in the specialty area of early literacy. Courses may be taken in any order, and the certificate may be completed in one year. Courses may also be applied toward a CU Reading Teacher Endorsement. Additional courses and applications are required for both programs.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $464* per credit | $1454* per credit |
* See Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page for graduate tuition disclaimer.
Courses & Timeline
The program consists of three 3-credit courses that can be taken in any order. This certificate totals 9 credit hours in the specialty area of early literacy. One course is offered each semester, and the entire certificate can be completed in one calendar year.
Literacy Development, Pre-K–3rd Grade (LCRT 5210)
This course focuses on children's literacy development from preschool to third grade, covering language development, assessment, instruction, and community literacy partnerships.
Literacy Routines & Assessment, Pre-K–3rd Grade (LCRT 5220)
This course covers routines and practices for student-specific instruction and assessment in early literacy, focusing on the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse children.
Early Literacy Instruction (LCRT 5230)
Participants analyze Pre-K to 3rd grade literacy instruction to meet the needs of young, gifted, special needs, and English language learning students.
Career Outlook
Educators who complete the Early Literacy Certificate become teachers with enhanced credentials and skills. This Early Literacy Certificate can solidify the understandings of initial literacy development for:
- Primary grade teachers
- Preschool teachers
- Para-educators
- Administrators
- Intermediate-grade teachers
Admissions
Admission requirements and deadlines vary based on the program. In addition, you will have different requirements depending on if you are a first-time student, a transfer student or an international student.
As you consider an online education, we understand that it’s important for you to know that you’re getting a high-quality, affordable, and flexible online education that helps you reach your goals. That’s why the CU Denver Enrollment Team is available to offer guidance and answer any questions that you may have.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.
Tuition is determined based on which CU Denver program is chosen, undergraduate or graduate level, and your resident status. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take the Next Step
Ready to advance your expertise in literacy education? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.