Literacy Studies

Faculty and students in the Literacy Studies program at the ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ Boulder School of Education study and design literacies in print and multimodal modes and in varied contexts. In our courses and inquiries, literacies are framed as central to envisioning and enacting expansive and justice-centered theories and practices for teaching, learning, imagination, and self-expression in K-12 schools, informal learning spaces, and communities. Grounded in critical, social, and interpretive conceptions of literacy, our program highlights the interrelations among theory, research, practice, policy, and the potential for equitable social change.

What can you do if you study Literacy Studies?

This emphasis supports teachers and researchers who are interested in developing greater understanding and expertise in the teaching and learning of literacy. We combine engaged and meaningful preparation for teaching and research in literacy and English education in partnership with children, youth, and families, and educator colleagues. Coursework and school and community engagement is centered on honoring and attending to experiences and identities at the intersections of race, language, gender, sexuality, ability, and economic opportunity. The program prepares and engages teachers, and the PhD prepares you for careers in research and teaching in university settings and educational leadership in schools and communities.

  Explore MA program       Explore PhD program 

Meet Our Faculty

Adam Crawley

Associate Teaching Professor
Literacy Studies

Elizabeth Dutro

Associate Dean of FacultyProfessor
Literacy StudiesHumanities Education

Wendy Glenn

Professor
Literacy StudiesHumanities Education

AJ Schiera

Assistant Professor
Literacy Studies

Kathy Schultz

Dean EmeritaProfessor
Educational Foundations, Policy & Practice

Sara Staley

Assistant ProfessorCo-Founder and Co-Director
Teacher Learning, Research & PracticeHumanities EducationA Queer Endeavor

Program Chair

Silvia Noguerón-Liu

Associate ProfessorProgram Chair
Literacy Studies

Interested in our graduate programs?

Graduate students

We offer ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥â€™s top-ranked graduate education in multiple program areas and would love to to provide you with relevant information about our programs. We look forward to learning about your graduate studies journey!

Fall 2023 Information Sessions

   School of Education Graduate Studies Preview Day (in-person)

Please join the School of Education for our Graduate Studies Preview Day on Saturday, Nov. 9. This program will be hosted in person and is open for all prospective Master's and PhD students. The program will include an overview of the application process and education program areas, breakout sessions with faculty by program area of interest, and a current graduate student panel for Q&A. Registration is required.