This fully online, interdisciplinary program combines coursework in literacy development, assessment, and structured literacy instruction with opportunities for supervised practice.
About the Program
Offered jointly by USF's College of Education and College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, the Graduate Certificate in Structured Literacy and Language Interventions provides specialized preparation in the assessment and intervention of reading and language difficulties.
Grounded in the science of reading, the program emphasizes explicit, systematic instruction and individualized interventions for students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities. Students develop knowledge and practical skills in literacy and language development, assessment, intervention planning, and evidence-based instructional approaches.
The program is designed for practicing teachers, speech-language pathologists, reading specialists, and other professionals seeking advanced preparation in literacy intervention.
Curriculum Requirements
The certificate consists of 15 graduate credit hours (five courses), with an optional additional 3-credit advanced practicum.
15 Credit Hours
| Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Foundations of Literacy Acquisition and Individual Differences in Reading Development | 3 |
| Literacy Assessment and Intervention Decision-Making | 3 |
| Structured Literacy I (focused on emergent and developing readers and writers) | 3 |
| Structured Literacy II (focused on later-developing literacy skills) | 3 |
| Structured Literacy Practicum | 3 |
| Optional Course: Advanced Structured Literacy Practicum |
3 |
Program Format
- 100% online
- 15 required graduate credit hours, with an optional additional 3-credit practicum
- Coursework offered through both the College of Education and the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences
- Five-year maximum completion period
The certificate is also being designed to provide a pathway into USF's MA in Reading Education, with the 15 certificate credits applicable toward the 30-credit master's program, subject to university requirements and final approval.
Admissions and Application Process
Applicants must meet USF's graduate certificate admission requirements and apply for admission to the certificate program.
Program Faculty
Nancy Marencin, PhD, CCC-SLP
Assistant Professor
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
College of Behavioral and Community Sciences
Contact Us
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