The University of Maine's literacy education graduate programs provide the opportunity to explore vital issues of literacy research and instruction with nationally recognized faculty. The programs are designed to engage students in authentic and practical experiences, including working directly with young children, K-12 students and adults, conducting research in field settings, or developing their own writing skills in summer writing institutes. Depending on your career goals, our programs can lead to state of Maine certification as a literacy specialist. Graduates emerge as strong advocates for literacy in their schools and communities.<br><br>Careers in literacy education<br>Graduates of our programs become leaders in literacy in their own schools as knowledgeable teachers, curriculum coordinators, literacy specialists, literacy coaches and school administrators with a strong understanding of the demands of current literacy curricula.<br><br>Program delivery<br>Our master's (M.Ed.) programs are designed to guide experienced educators to a deeper understanding of literacy learning and teaching, including establishing in K-12 students a firm foundation of how print works and strategic behaviors that lead to successful reading and writing. The curriculum covers how individuals develop literacy skills and knowledge, as well as how to shape and assess instruction that meets the unique needs of all learners. Our graduate programs align with Maine Department of Education requirements for literacy specialist and other professionals, as well as as well as the standards of organizations such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), the International Literacy Association (ILA) and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).