Admission Process | Graduate Programs in Literacy

Applications for admission to our Graduate Programs in Literacy must be submitted for processing to the Carroll University Office of Admission. These programs admit new cohorts once a year each fall. We are currently accepting applications for the Fall 2027 semester.

The Office of Admission reviews applications on an ongoing basis and issues decisions as files are completed. Applicants are notified of their admission decision through the online application portal. 

August 1, 2026: Application Opens

August 1, 2027: Priority Application Deadline. We strongly encourage submitting your application materials by this date to ensure the best enrollment experience. Completing your file by this date allows ample time for review, registration, and transitioning into your cohort. 

August 15, 2027: Application Deadline. The last date all application materials can be accepted. Applications must be complete by this date to be considered for any Fall 2027 cohort.

August 29, 2027: 1st Day of the Fall 2027 Semester

September 10, 2027: First Class Meeting for Fall 2027 Cohorts

Admission decisions will be based on evaluation of the following items, which can be uploaded to the student portal.

STEP 1: Submit the Graduate Studies Application

​STEP 2: Complete and submit the following within the application status portal after submission of your application:

1. Cover Letter - Explain why you are applying to this program and how your professional background prepares you for this program.
2. Professional Resume
3. (Optional) Two Professional References - While references are not required for admission, you may choose to submit them. A submission link will be sent to your reference once you enter contact information within your application.
   
   Please note: If you list a reference, your application will not be reviewed for an admission decision until all submitted recommendations are received. If you do not plan to submit letters of recommendataion, leave this section blank within the application. 

STEP 3: Official Post-Secondary Transcripts - From all institutions attended, including those attended for transfer or non-degree coursework

• • Official transcripts must be sent from the institution to gradinfo@carrollu.edu or mailed to:
    
    Carroll University
    Office of Admission
    100 N. East Avenue
    Waukesha, WI 53186

Start Your Application!

Baccalaureate Degree

• Applicants must have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution before beginning any literacy program. 
• Students in their final year of undergraduate study may apply and be admitted to any literacy program. However, they must provide a final official transcript confirming their degree has been awarded before beginning literacy courses. 

GPA

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA
• If the cumulative GPA is below 3.0, additional admission criteria and materials may be required.

In addition to the academic requirements listed above, the applicant must meet the specific admission requirements of the individual graduate literacy program they are applying to, outlined below:

• Reaching Teacher License
  • Hold a valid Wisconsin initial, provisional, or lifetime teaching license
  • Have at least two years of successful classroom teaching experience by the conclusion of the 10-month program
• Reading Specialist License
  • Have a master's degree in education
  • Hold a valid Wisconsin Reading Teacher License
  • Have at least three years (6 semesters) of successful classroom teaching experience by the conclusion of the 10-month program
• Master of Education in Literacy
  • Hold a valid Wisconsin initial, provisional, or lifetime teaching license
  • Have at least two years of successful classroom teaching experience by the conclusion of the 22-month program

For questions regarding the application process contact:

Karyn Lawrence
Admission Counselor for Graduate Studies
Phone: 262.524.7361
Email: gradinfo@carrollu.edu
Schedule a 1:1 Meeting: Bookings Link