College of Education and Human Development
 Literacy
Education
 FAQ for Early Language and Literacy Certificate
Questions and Answers
Who may enroll in the certificate program?
The program is designed for leaders in early childhood education (directors and
experienced teachers, for example) who have some expertise in early childhood but want to learn more about new research and practice in early literacy. However, the courses will be open to anyone who has completed a baccalaureate degree.
Could you describe the courses in more detail?
Each course is worth 3 graduate credits. To begin with, there will be one offered each semester including one in summer. Enrollment will be limited to 20 students in each course. Below are course descriptions with probable semester of first offering. If interest is high, the courses will continue to be offered on the same cycle every year.
EDU 516: Early Care and Education Policy (summer 2008, summer 2009)
This course will provide background in the societal and political contexts into which today’s children are born, and in which they develop language and literacy in their early years. Content of the course will include study of current issues and policies that impact very young children in this country. The instructor and guest speakers will all have extensive knowledge of child and family policy, including its history, what drives it and changes it, and how it impacts caregivers and educators.
EDU 517: Early Language and Literacy Learning (fall 2008)
This course will focus on language acquisition and early reading/writing development and will promote understanding of the relationship between them. Students will examine two types of child learnings: comprehension related knowledge and skills, and print related knowledge and skills, and the ways in which these may be fostered.
EDU 518: Using Literature to Support Learning in Young Children
(spring 2009)
Repeated, consistent exposure to the world of books in the earliest years is the cornerstone of later literacy development. This course will provide an in-depth examination of appropriate literature for sharing with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, as well as research and experience-based techniques for reading aloud to children of different ages, backgrounds, and interests. Students will explore ways of integrating literature into infant care-giving and preschool curricula.
EDU 519: Early Language and Literacy Curriculum and Instructional Design (fall 2009, fall 2010)
This course will focus on both short and long-range curriculum planning at the preschool and kindergarten levels. Students will examine philosophical bases of varying curriculum frameworks and their effects on outcomes for children. The interweaving of language and literacy activities into daily activities will be stressed; equally important will be the ability to set developmentally appropriate goals for diverse children and plan curriculum with long term perspective.
The important elements of assessment, accommodating cultural and linguistic diversity and special needs, and communication with families will be included in every course.
Can I take one or more of these courses without enrolling in the whole certificate program?
Yes, with the exception of the final course, EDU 619, which will have the other three courses as prerequisites.
Where and when will the courses be offered?
Most classes are held on the Portland Campus of USM. Click here for a campus map.
How do I enroll in the certificate program?
Complete the Application for Graduate Certificate and send it to the Office of Graduate Admissions with the other materials requested. The admissions committee for Literacy Education will consider applications on a rolling basis and will inform you of their decision.
Office of Graduate Admissions
PO Box 9300
Portland, ME 04104-9300
(207) 780-4386
gradstudies@usm.maine.edu
I have not taken a graduate course at USM before. How do I register for a course?
There are several options for registering for a course:
- Call the Professional Development Center at 780-5055.
- Call the Registrar's Office at (207) 780-5230.
- Walk-in to the Registrar's Office in Corthell Hall on the Gorham campus, Payson-Smith on the Portland campus, or at the Lewiston-Auburn campus.
- Walk-in to the Professional Development Center office on the Gorham Campus at 8 Bailey Hall.
Note: For fall enrollment you do not have to pay at the time of registration, as long as you register prior to July 15. You will be billed in August. Payment is sue on the date of registration for summer courses.
Will these courses count toward a master's degree?
If you are in a master's degree program in CEHD or if you plan to enroll in one, you should discuss this with your advisor or with a faculty member in the program. Some or all of the courses may apply, depending on the program.
Are certificate students eligible for financial aid from the University?
No, at this time only students matriculated in degree programs are eligible for assistantships, scholarships, and federal loans.
Is there other scholarship aid?
YES! The Maine Roads Scholarship Program is open to individuals employed in the child care field. Financial assistance is available to support child care providers pursuing credentials that lead to opportunities working in direct care service, administrative work or staff development/training in child care and early education. To be considered, you must meet financial eligibility criteria and you must complete a Scholarship Application Form. Applications are reviewed by members of the Maine Roads Scholarship Award Committee twice a year, in July and November. For more information, contact the Scholarship Program at 1-888-900-0055.
Is there a time limit for completing the certificate?
Students who enroll in one course each semester and summer session will be able to complete the certificate program in a year and a half. However, you are allowed up to 5 years to complete.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
If you need more information about registration, tuition, scheduling of courses, etc., please address your questions to Christen Stande of the College of Education and Human Development Professional Development Center: cstande@usm.maine.edu. If you have questions about the curriculum, course content, or appropriateness of the courses for your professional development, please contact Margo Wood, Dean of Graduate Studies at mwood@usm.maine.edu.
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