Undergraduate
Students

The Literacy Department is recognized by the International Literacy Association (ILA), formerly known as the International Reading Association (IRA), and has been awarded a “Certificate of Distinction.” ILA is our Specialized Professional Association that publishes standards for Literacy professionals. Many students who add the Reading Minor also join West Chester University's Epsilon Chapter of ILA's international honor society, Alpha Upsilon Alpha (AUA).  More information (and a short video) about AUA can be found at the bottom of this page.

Literacy courses are not just for prospective teachers. The department also offers courses that support the work of students in other disciplines. Students of the Academic Development Program (ADP) or others eager to strengthen their own college level study skills may enroll in EDR 100 College Reading and Study Skills. Other Literacy courses meet the needs of students whose curriculum for career certification necessitates completion of the Pennsylvania Department of Education's (PDE) competency requirements of Act 49.13; inclusion courses teach students how to incorporate language and literacy into individualized, client–based interventions.

Supported programs and competencies addressed by Literacy courses:

College Study Skills

The Literacy Department offers two courses that teach students college level study skills: Q20 Intermediate Level Reading, and EDR 100 College Reading and Study Skills . Only students of the Academic Development Program (ADP) may enroll in Q20 (offered during second summer session only); however, students from any discipline are welcome to enroll in EDR 100 during any spring or fall semester.

EDR Courses for Act 49.13 Competencies

Students needing to take EDR 345, EDR 347, or EDR 550 should review our helpful Inclusion Course Information . This document lists each of these three courses and provides:

• course descriptions
• your plan–specific prerequisites
• course schedules
• helpful enrollment tips for students unfamiliar with the Literacy Department

Reading Minor Program

Early and Middle Grades Preparation students have an option to add a Reading Minor to the EDR coursework already required by their major. Your minor in Reading enhances your transcript and also makes you eligible to join WCU's local chapter of the ILA's honor society, Alpha Upsilon Alpha (AUA). Pursue your passion for reading and highlight your hard work for prospective employers by becoming a Reading Minor.

Please review the department's Reading Minor Guidance Sheet for more specific program information, such as:

• course curriculums per EGP and MGP majors
• course descriptions, schedule, and prerequisites
• special course notes and enrollment information
• FATE and clearance requirements
• admission and application information