This is a professional degree intended to prepare superior teachers, administrators, service personnel, and scholars of education. In addition, the program prepares individuals for teaching at the college level. Preparation for research responsibilities both as producer and as consumer is an integral part of each program. The specialization in literacy education focuses on preparing students to be knowledgeable practitioners, scholars, and leaders in the field of literacy. Students study literacy research, theory, and practice. A commitment to scholarship and research, as well as practice, is required of students so as to improve the status of literacy for all learners.