If you are a credentialed teacher, this 9-unit added authorization will give you specialized certification to teach reading in the Pre-K-12 setting.

If you have a passion for helping above-average or struggling readers, this authorization can prepare you to help both groups more effectively. The program follows an explicit philosophy and purpose based on current, confirmed, replicable, and reliable research in literacy as referenced in the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks (Volume 1) and the California Reading/Language Arts Framework.

You may complete the Reading and Literacy Added Authorization on its own. Upon successful completion of all coursework, you may apply to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for the Reading and Literacy Added Authorization. You must have completed three years of successful K-12 teaching at the time of submission to CTC for this added authorization.

Applicants for the Reading and Literacy Added Authorization must have a valid California preliminary/clear teaching credential and three years of successful teaching experience.

Are you ready to take the next step and apply?

We're here to make the entire process a simple one. We'll walk you through the application process, answer your questions, and get you one step closer to earning your degree.

Program Start Date(s):

• Summer 2025 Quad I — May 12, 2025
• Fall 2025 Quad I — September 2, 2025
• Spring 2026 Quad I — January 12, 2026

Application Deadlines(s):

• Summer 2025 Quad I — April 25, 2025
• Fall 2025 Quad I — August 15, 2025
• Spring 2026 Quad I — December 12, 2025

Not all programs offer entry for new students each quad. Check with your enrollment counselor for programs and start dates.

Start Application

The Selection Process

The educational context at PLNU will challenge you to live a full life that integrates the pursuit of knowledge with beliefs, values, and actions. While honoring diverse perspectives and beliefs, Christian values and principles are woven into the educational experience. We understand your application is not only a reflection of you as a student; it reflects you as a person. At PLNU, we holistically evaluate your academic history, work and life experience, background, and circumstances to determine admission into a graduate program. Your undergraduate GPA is an important piece of your application, but if you do not meet the minimum GPA requirement of a 3.0, you may still be eligible for admission based on your application package as well as the exceptions policy per your particular program.* Therefore, we strongly encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor, who will advise you regarding your qualifications and provide specific information about the admission under exceptions process.

To be admitted into PLNU's education program, you must have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, as evidenced by an official transcript from an institution that indicates the completion of an undergraduate degree.

If you have any questions about your qualifications or the program in general, we encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor.

Application Checklist

Note: The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU, and test scores, which should be submitted electronically.

1. Submit an online application for admissions (including $50 non-refundable application fee, which is waived for PLNU alums, current or former military and their dependents, and PLNU employees).
2. Submit official transcripts with proof of earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.* (If you are a PLNU alumnus, please notify your counselor to have your transcripts retrieved. You do not need to request transcripts from the PLNU Office of Records.)
   
   Official transcripts must be sent to:
   Point Loma Nazarene University
   Office of Graduate Admissions
   3900 Lomaland Dr.
   San Diego, CA 92106
   
   Official electronic transcripts must be emailed to:
   gradprocessing@pointloma.edu
   
   *Please note, official transcripts must be sent directly from the regionally accredited institution.
3. Submit a personal essay, 2-3 pages in length and double spaced.
4. Once you have submitted your admissions application, your two selected professional recommenders will automatically be sent the auto-generated document to complete on your behalf. If you'd like to include a written letter in addition to this required document, you may do so, but it's unnecessary.
5. For credential seekers only: Submit basic skills exam (CBEST or equivalent) scores. This can be demonstrated by taking the CBEST exam
   • OR Multiple Subject CSET plus writing skills examination
   • OR CSU Early Assessment Program or the CSU Placement Examination
   • OR providing proof of a valid California teaching credential

Start Application

*Exceptions Policy: If you have below a 3.0 GPA in your baccalaureate degree, you will need to speak with your enrollment counselor for more information on the exceptions materials needed for your particular program.

State Authorization

State authorization is a formal determination by a state that Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is approved to conduct activities regulated by that state. In certain states outside California, PLNU is not authorized to enroll students in online (distance education) courses and/or offer internships within that state. Student location is based on where a student is physically located while taking courses. Students taking face-to-face courses are located in California, regardless of their home state at the time of application.

If a student moves to another state after admission to a program and/or enrollment in an online course, continuation within the program and/or course will depend on whether PLNU is authorized to offer distance education courses in that state. If a student wishes to conduct an internship outside California, they must select a state where it is permitted. It is the student's responsibility to notify PLNU of any change in their physical location, other than incidental travel. Refer to the State Authorization map to view which states allow online (distance education) and/or internships outside California.

Professional Licensure or Certification

This program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and meets the requirements for educator certification in the state of California, where Point Loma Nazarene University is physically located. For information about PLNU programs and out-of-state educational requirements for professional licensure or certification, please refer to our Disclosures page. Information about out-of-state requirements in teacher credentialing is available on this website. 

This program is ideal for:

• Experienced teachers who work with students with special needs and English learners, and Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)
• Experienced teachers seeking educational and salary advancement
• Newly credentialed teachers, who can complete the coursework and add this authorization after 3 years of experience

For information about the courses required for the Reading and Literacy Added Authorization program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information