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Master of Education in Literacy Instruction: ESL Certificate
Strengthen literacy teaching expertise while supporting multilingual learners.
The Master of Education in Literacy Instruction program is designed to prepare candidates with a deep understanding of literacy instruction based on research-based best practices that are designed to meet the needs of all learners. Within the 33 credit MEd in Literacy Instruction program, students will earn their NJ Reading Specialist (PreK-12) and their ESL (K-12) certifications. Students who are employed in an early childhood setting (PreK-3) will also earn their Early Literacy Specialist certification (PreK-3). Candidate’s learning centers around the International Literacy Association’s standards (2017) focusing on foundational knowledge of literacy instruction, curriculum design & implementation, assessment & evaluation, diversity & equity, learners & the literacy environment and professional learning & leadership.
The Master of Education in Literacy Instruction program at Centenary University will enable the candidates to meet the State requirements for the New Jersey Reading Specialist Certification while completing a Master of Education degree. This certification enables a teacher to provide reading/literacy instruction in PreK through grade 12.
Students will have the following two options to pair with their Master of Education in Literacy Instruction program:
- Master of Education in Literacy Instruction with a NJ Reading Specialist Certification and ESL Certification (33 Credits)
- Master of Education in Literacy Instruction with a NJ Reading Specialist Certification, ESL Certification and Supervisor Licensure (42 Credits)
This program is offered in a blended format which alternates on ground learning in the classroom setting and online learning. If the course is blended it is listed next to the course title.
Program goals
The program is offered online with a once-per-month residency requirement at our main campus in Hackettstown. In Centenary’s Master of Education in Literacy Instruction program, you will learn to:
- Act as scholar-practitioners while applying contemporary research to theory in order to provide students with the most progressive, evidence-based pedagogy in literacy instruction.
- Develop supportive, motivating, student-centered literacy curricula that is designed to meet the needs of diverse student populations.
- Coach teachers and instructional leaders to enhance their knowledge and understanding of literacy curriculum and development in order to create optimal environments that maximize achievement.
- Explore, analyze and synthesize contemporary research topics in literacy instruction such as access, critical literacy, diversity, motivation and equity.
- Recognize the importance of our positionality as literacy leaders and use that knowledge to provide community service to at-risk children at no cost.
- During this practicum experience, powerful learning and developmental experiences are created through the practice of reflective inquiry.
Career paths
The New Jersey Reading Specialist Certification enables a teacher to provide literacy instruction in grades PreK-12.
- Literacy leaders
- Curriculum directors
- Curriculum supervisors
- Interventionists
- Literacy coaches
- Consultants
- Researchers
- Improve your classroom practice
- ESL teachers (K-12)
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include Additional NJ endorsements, MA/MEd, ESL/bilingual education, special education, literacy, supervisor certification, or educational leadership pathway.
Career Pathways:
Literacy Coach, Reading Specialist, Curriculum Developer
Industry Outlook:
Increasing demand for literacy specialists, particularly in elementary and secondary schools.
Regional employers include
New Jersey public school districts; Newark Public Schools; Jersey City Public Schools; Paterson Public Schools; Elizabeth Public Schools; KIPP/North Star; Uncommon Schools; private schools; county education offices.
Salary Outlook:
$60,000 – $90,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to Master of Education in Literacy Instruction, a reasonable starting range is approximately $55,000–$70,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $78,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $90,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data