Teachers are critical to a child’s readiness to read. That’s why every child deserves a teacher who has the expertise to lead them up the path to literacy achievement. In the spirit of that aspiration, Ball State University offers a graduate certificate in literacy instruction or a reading license option.
The courses are taught by faculty who hold doctorates and teach in Ball State’s Teachers College, one of the most comprehensive and renowned colleges of education in the country. The program can be completed in two or three semesters. There is also the option of completing the reading license exam to earn the credential, with or without the preparatory courses.
The 15-credit certificate or add-on reading license is also a good option if you’re considering a master’s degree in the future. The 15 credits partially complete requirements for a master’s in elementary education (MAE) with a concentration in reading/literacy.
Program Contacts
Becky Druetzler
Academic Advisor
Nicole Martin
Director of Graduate Programs
Course Requirements
You are required to take 15 credits to complete the certificate.
- EDRD 610 The Teaching of Reading in the Elementary School (3 credits)
- EDRD 615 Early Literacy Development (3 credits)
or EDRD 620 Disciplinary Literacy & Integrated Instruction: Addressing Content Area Reading & Informational Text (3 credits)
- EDRD 624 Integrating Technology in the Literacy Program (3 credits)
- EDRD 680 Classroom Reading Diagnosis (3 credits)
- EDRD 685 Advanced Teaching Methods in Language Arts (3 credits)
For a complete list of program requirements and courses, see the course catalog.
View Catalog
Completion of this certificate does not lead to initial licensure.
Ball State has joined the Federal Academic Alliance and is offering reduced tuition rates for all eligible, non-Indiana resident Federal Government Employees (civil servants), spouses, dependents, and retirees who enroll in online graduate-level programs and courses through Ball State’s Teachers College. Learn more.
More about Online Learning
Ready to Apply?
Review deadlines, admission requirements, and application materials, then start your application.
Ball State is authorized by the U.S. Department of Education to accept online students from all U.S. states. However, if you are considering a program that leads to professional licensure, some states may have additional regulations. Review our state authorization website if you live outside of Indiana and contact us if you have questions.
Want to Learn More?
Do you have questions about this program or online learning? We’re here to help! You may request more information using our online form, or feel free to reach out directly to one of our staff.
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