Oct 08, 2024  
2024 2025 Academic Catalog 
    
2024 2025 Academic Catalog

Sixth Year Certificate of Advanced Study (DAS): Reading and Language Arts Consultant

Location(s): Main Campus, Waterbury Center


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Carlson Hall
Telephone: (203) 576-4764

Sixth Year Diploma of Advanced Study (DAS)

The Reading and Language Arts Consultant Sixth Year Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) prepares educators for literacy leadership positions in elementary, middle, and secondary schools. Coursework in this advanced program prepares educators for Connecticut certification as a Reading and Language Art Consultant (097). This program holds national recognition by the International Literacy Association 

Applicants must have completed an appropriate Master’s degree, must have a valid teaching certificate (or be eligible for Connecticut certification) in elementary, middle, or secondary education; must have completed a minimum of thirty months of successful classroom teaching experience.

Program Goals

The program goals in literacy are aligned with the International Literacy Association’s Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals (2017).

The Learning Outcomes are aligned with the International Literacy Association’s Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals (2017):

1.  Candidates demonstrate knowledge of the theoretical, historical, and evidence-based foundations of literacy and language and the ways in which they interrelate and the role of literacy professionals in schools.

2. Candidates use foundational knowledge to critique and implement literacy curricula to meet the needs of all learners and to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based literacy instruction for all learners.

3. Candidates understand, select, and use valid, reliable, fair, and appropriate assessment tools to screen, diagnose, and measure student literacy achievement; inform instruction and evaluate interventions; participate in professional learning experiences; explain assessment results and advocate for appropriate literacy practices to relevant stakeholders.

4. Candidates demonstrate knowledge of research, relevant theories, pedagogies, essential concepts of diversity and equity; demonstrate and provide opportunities for understanding all forms of diversity as central to students’ identities; create classrooms and schools that are inclusive and affirming; advocate for equity at school, district, and community levels. 

5. Candidates meet the developmental needs of all learners and collaborate with school personnel to use a variety of print and digital materials to engage and motivate all learners; integrate digital technologies in appropriate, safe, and effective ways; foster a positive climate that supports a literacy-rich learning environment.

6. Candidates recognize the importance of, participate in, and facilitate ongoing professional learning as part of career-long leadership roles and responsibilities.

7. Candidates apply theory and best practice in multiple supervised practicum/clinical experiences.

Admissions Criteria

  • A valid Connecticut teaching certificate (or proof of eligibility);
  • Successful completion of a Master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • A minimum undergraduate B- GPA.
  • At least two letters of recommendation from persons able to testify to your suitability as a prospective teacher and your potential for graduate-level work;
  • An essay demonstrating a command of the English language and setting out the reasons for wanting to enroll in the program and emphasizing experience relevant to teaching;
  • A successful interview with the Program Coordinator.
  • Completion of at least 30 school months of successful classroom teaching experience.

Summary of Requirements - 30 Credit(s)


Prerequisite Requirements - 16 Credit(s) *


*These Requirements May Be Met by Taking an Undergraduate or Graduate Course With a Grade of at Least a “B.”

Educational Psychology - 3 Credit(s)


(Required)

Children’s or Adolescent Literature - 3 Credit(s)


(Required)

Special Education - 3 Credit(s)


(Required)

Tests and Measurements - 3 Credit(s)


(Required)

Second Language Learning and Acquisition - 1 Credit(s)


(Required)

Initial Program Requirements - 16 Credit(s)


(The initial program requirements may be met through completion of the following courses at the Master’s or Sixth Year level:)

Diagnosis and Intervention of Reading and Language Arts Difficulties - 3 Credit(s)


(Required)

Clinical Field Experience - 7 Credit(s)


(Required)

Advanced Program Requirements - 12 Credit(s)


Advanced Reading and Language Arts Diagnosis - 2 Credit(s)


(Required)

Reading and Language Arts Consultant Practicum and Applied Research - 6 Credit(s)


(Required)

Additional Program Requirements


Final Degree Requirement


(Choose one of the following:)

Additional Coursework for Certification

(required if Noted)

Total Number of Credits

Sixth Year Total Minimum: 30 credits

Additional Information


Students need to complete all requirements on their Planned Programs of Study, inclusive of the Final Degree Requirement, coursework in technology, instruction for the English Language Learner, and working with students with dyslexia. Students need to pass all performance assessments and all requisite exams for licensure, including the Reading Specialist exam.

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