Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme combines theory, research and classroom practice to prepare graduates to support literacy development across ages and languages. Core topics include foundations of literacy development, second language acquisition, assessment and intervention for struggling readers, and culturally responsive pedagogy. Students typically study modules such as:

• Foundations of Literacy: historical and cognitive bases of reading and writing development across the lifespan.
• Multilingual Education and Second Language Acquisition: principles of bilingual education, language policy, and stages of additional language learning.
• Assessment and Intervention: formative and diagnostic assessment techniques, progress monitoring, and evidence-based interventions for diverse learners.
• Instructional Design and Curriculum for Literacy: designing curriculum and instructional materials that integrate literacy across content areas and languages.
• Literacy across Contexts: family and community literacy, digital literacies, and supporting emergent readers and adolescent literacy.
• Research Methods and Data Use: qualitative and quantitative methods relevant to classroom research, programme evaluation and using assessment data to inform instruction.
• Practicum / Capstone Project: supervised field-based practicum in schools or community settings and a culminating capstone or research project that applies theory to practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Priority is often given to candidates with prior classroom experience or a professional background in education, though career changers with relevant experience are also considered. Typical application materials include:

• A completed application form and academic transcripts from previous institutions.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in literacy and multilingual education.
• Letters of recommendation, preferably one from an academic referee and one from a professional supervisor.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae documenting relevant teaching or related experience.

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide evidence of prior coursework in language, linguistics or literacy. Those seeking certification routes should check additional state or institutional requirements related to licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates work across schools, districts and community organisations supporting literacy for monolingual and multilingual learners. Typical roles include:

• Reading specialist or literacy coach
• ESL / EAL / bilingual teacher or coordinator
• Curriculum developer for literacy and language programmes
• Instructional coordinator or professional development leader
• Adult literacy and community education practitioner
• Educational researcher or doctoral study candidate in literacy, linguistics or education

Graduates are prepared to lead schoolwide literacy initiatives, design inclusive curricula, and use assessment data to improve outcomes for learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers small, focused cohorts and faculty who combine academic research with practical classroom experience in urban and suburban schools. The programme emphasises applied learning through supervised practicum placements and partnerships with local schools and community organisations, enabling students to test strategies with multilingual learners. Flexible delivery options, including evening and blended classes, support in-service educators, while academic advising and career services help graduates transition into specialist literacy roles or further study.