
Program Distinctions
This combined Childhood Education/Literacy master’s degree program stands out due to its focus on best practices and digital literacy. You’ll learn how to teach in a face-to-face format as well as remotely, getting experience teaching general education students and diverse, at-risk urban learners alike. When you graduate, you’ll be eligible to become New York State-certified in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Literacy Specialist (Birth-Grade 6) upon successfully completing the Content Specialty tests and edTPA.
Course Requirements
Our Childhood Education and Literacy master’s degree is 43 credits and can be completed in two-and-a-half-years by taking nine credits a semester, summer, fall, and spring semesters.
You’ll learn strategies to teach all core subject areas (grades 1-6) and literacy content, from teaching emergent readers and writers to providing content-area instruction for general education students. You’ll also work in assessment teams to diagnose and develop an instructional plan for a student reading and/or writing significantly below grade level.
You’ll develop, implement and evaluate units of study and lesson plans that are aligned to appropriate standards;
learn to use assessment to inform instructional decisions;
and learn best practices for technology to aid you in the classroom.

Easily Apply
Rolling admission, so apply anytime, and begin in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
Applicants should submit:
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- One letter of recommendation
- A one- to two-page career goals essay
- GRE scores are not required

Personal Advising, Experienced Faculty
Our master’s program comes with a deep, Russell Sage-level of support from an assigned faculty advisor who works with you to ensure your success.
Peter Stapleton, Ph.D., “Russell Sage College and the Esteves School of Education act as leaders in teacher education, not just in the Capital District but in New York State”
Assistant Professor of Education

Careers with a Master’s in Childhood Education and Literacy
When you graduate, you’ll be eligible to become New York State-certified in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Literacy Specialist (Birth-Grade 6) upon successfully completing the Content Specialty tests and edTPA.
Spotlights
Meet some alumni of our graduate Education programs.