Literacy Education/Reading Endorsement

The on-campus literacy program offerings focus on preparing licensed teachers to be eligible for the Oregon Reading Endorsement. Portland State University's course offerings in literacy education are designed to help preservice and inservice teachers become better teachers of reading and writing. On-campus program options include:

• A 25-credit reading endorsement 
• A 12-credit certificate of completion

The Literacy Education Program goals include:

• Best practices and standards as articulated by the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English,
• Methodologies and resources for creating classroom literacy environments,
• Engaging students and individualizing teaching,
• Principles and practices for working with students needing extra help with literacy, and
• Authentic and contemporary assessment practices.

Endorsement

The PSU reading endorsement program is a 25-credit program including a core of 16 credits, 3 credits of practicum, and 6 credits of electives. The program is designed specifically for those planning careers as Title I teachers, reading specialists, literacy coaches, consultants, and district-level reading and language arts coordinators. A reading endorsement is also useful for classroom teachers wishing more knowledge about literacy and about teaching students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Completion of the following coursework, the PRAXIS Specialty Area Exam in Reading, and a 90 hour practicum are required for an Oregon reading endorsement. Courses numbered 808 and 810 are not allowed.