M.A. in Literacy Education

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at Marshall University, international students are required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

Marshall University offers several scholarship opportunities to international students to help them with the cost of their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other criteria. 

1. Marshall University Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic performance. The specific criteria and the value of the scholarships may vary. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admission process.

2. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarship: Marshall University offers scholarships to students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP) to improve their English language skills before beginning their degree program. These scholarships can help reduce the cost of language preparation.

3. International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary based on academic achievement and program of study.

4. Undergraduate Competitive Scholarships: Marshall University provides a range of competitive scholarships for undergraduate international students. These may be based on factors like leadership, community involvement, or specific academic achievements.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantship positions. These positions may involve research or teaching and often include a stipend and tuition benefits.

6. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Marshall University's International Student Office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

7. Honors College Scholarships: Exceptional undergraduate students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of advanced academic and research opportunities.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Marshall University offer scholarships or assistantships specific to students in certain fields of study. Prospective graduate students should inquire within their respective departments.

9. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they are recruited to participate in Marshall University's sports programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change over time.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Literacy Education is a distinguished program designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in literacy instruction and related fields. Whether aspiring to become literacy specialists, reading coaches, curriculum developers, or advocates for literacy, the program prepares students for fulfilling and impactful careers.

1. Literacy Specialist: Graduates often become literacy specialists, working in K-12 schools to provide specialized instruction to students struggling with reading and writing. They assess literacy levels, design intervention programs, and offer support to teachers.

2. Reading Coach: Reading coaches support educators in improving their teaching strategies, curriculum, and classroom management in relation to literacy. They may work within schools or as consultants.

3. Curriculum Developer: Graduates can work as curriculum developers, designing literacy curricula and materials for schools, districts, or educational publishers, ensuring alignment with standards and best practices.

4. Educational Consultant: As educational consultants, graduates provide expertise on literacy education, helping schools and districts improve their literacy programs and instructional methods.

5. Title I Coordinator: Title I coordinators oversee programs designed to improve academic achievement in schools with high numbers of students from low-income families. They often focus on literacy initiatives.

6. Adult Literacy Instructor: Some graduates may choose to work with adults, providing literacy instruction to individuals who need to improve their reading and writing skills.

7. ESL/ELL Teacher: Literacy education graduates can become English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Language Learner (ELL) teachers, helping non-native English speakers become proficient in the language.

8. Special Education Teacher: Graduates may pursue special education roles, working with students who have specific learning disabilities or literacy-related challenges.

9. Library Media Specialist: Library media specialists work in schools to promote literacy and support literacy development by curating and managing libraries, providing resources, and collaborating with teachers.

10. Literacy Researcher: Some graduates choose to engage in academic research, exploring literacy education trends, assessment methods, and instructional strategies to contribute to the field's advancement.

11. Content Developer for Educational Publishers: Graduates can work for educational publishing companies, creating literacy materials, textbooks, and digital content for use in educational settings.

12. Principal/School Administrator: With experience, literacy education graduates may advance to become school principals or administrators, overseeing all aspects of school management, including literacy initiatives.

13. Child Literacy Advocate: Graduates may work for nonprofits and advocacy organizations, promoting child literacy and implementing programs to improve literacy rates in communities.

14. Home Literacy Instructor: Some choose to provide private literacy instruction in students' homes or in specialized learning centers.

15. Online Literacy Instructor: With the rise of online education, graduates can provide literacy instruction through virtual platforms, reaching students around the world.

16. Adult Literacy Program Coordinator: As program coordinators, graduates manage adult literacy programs, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of adult learners.

17. Education Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, evaluating and influencing education policies related to literacy and reading initiatives.

18. Grant Writer: Some graduates specialize in grant writing, securing funding for literacy programs and educational initiatives.