Numerous certificates are available that are transferable to a degree program. Most certificates are 9-12 graduate-level credits and are open to educators with a bachelor's degree. Some certificates may only be available to teachers in particular districts or CU Denver master's students in certain degree programs as noted. Click on the certificate links below for s​pecific requirements.
Degree: Graduate Certificate
Classroom Type: Fully Online
Equips preschool and primary grade teachers and para-educators with advanced skills in the development, assessment, and instruction of literacy for young learners. The certificate includes methods that help all learners-including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse-gain important literacy skills.
Interest Categories: Education & Counseling
Campus: CU Denver Online
Developing early literacy skills is a crucial step in children’s growth and development. Early literacy instruction is a national focus, and for good reason. Studies show that students who are not reading on grade level by fourth grade have decreased chances of graduating from high school. Students need educators who can help them grow their reading skills at an early age as a way of preparing them for a successful future.
The University of Colorado Denver’s Early Literacy certificate offers primary grade teachers, preschool teachers and para-educators advanced skills in the development, assessment and instruction of literacy for young learners. You’ll explore methods that will help all learners--including those who are linguistically or culturally diverse--gain important literacy skills.
Even though these courses are offered online, participants still become part of a learning community. You’ll learn and share with like-minded peers and form lasting relationships with colleagues as you learn and grow together.
After completing the program, you’ll have the knowledge and skills necessary to create rich environments that envelop young learners in language and literacy development opportunities, both oral and written. You will be the guide who sets young learners on a path to success and empowers them for a lifetime of learning.
Faculty at CU Denver match your passion for education and believe in giving all students equal access to an excellent education. Engaged in literacy education at the local, state, national and international levels, these professionals bring with them a wide breadth of experience. Additionally, our faculty network and collaborate with local district leaders to ensure you are prepared for the current challenges that schools and districts face.
You can trust CU Denver to provide an education that will prepare you for excellence in your career. We have a name that is recognized for preparing leaders of excellence who value diversity and inclusion. Additionally, CU Denver’s School of Education and Human Development is counted among U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools,” making us one of the top education schools in the country.
Recommended Completion Time:1 year
Required Credits for Completion:12
This program has rolling admissions. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Application Requirements
The certificate will appear on the student's transcript upon successful completion of the course unless the student is already enrolled in an SEHD degree program. If a student is currently enrolled in an SEHD degree program and is taking certificate courses, the certificate will appear on the student's transcript if no more than 3 credit hours are used to meet degree requirements. Our nationally and internationally recognized certificates are exceptions to this policy, this includes the certificate for Applied Behavior Analysis.
Students must have a grade of C or better in all classes applied toward their certificate and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B average) or higher for the certificate to be transcribed. Particular district-related certificates require a grade of B or better for certificate transcription. In some cases, courses with a grade of C may not count toward a master's degree, depending on specific degree program requirements.