Reading Education

M.Ed. Reading and Reading Specialist PreK-12 Certification

Our Reading programs provide students with a deep knowledge of teaching literacy in PreK-12 classrooms.  The programs’ design teaches the strategies and skills to support the diverse learning needs of students in a connected, multicultural and multilingual society. There is a strong focus on developing an in-depth knowledge of literacy research, theory and practice in ways that can provide leadership in local schools and school districts. Understanding importance of the structure of language in teaching literacy skills throughout the grades, helps shape the diagnostic, prescriptive model of teaching that is embedded within the program.

Students have the option to pursue Reading Specialist PreK-12 certification as an initial certification program or to add to existing instructional certificates. The Reading Specialist certification program can be completed in1-2 years. For those who want to also earn a master’s degree, all courses required in the Reading Specialist PreK-12 program can be applied to an M.Ed. in Reading degree. ​The M.Ed. in Reading with certification can be completed 1 1/2 -2 years.

Successful graduates of the program seek job opportunities as reading​ ​specialists,​ ​reading support services personnel in schools, libraries and learning centers or after-school programs and tutors, ​literacy​ ​leaders in educational settings, literacy coaches, mentors and directors.

Coursework, Field Experiences and the Practicum

The courses focus on understanding key literacy practices as diagnostic assessment and intervention, evidence-based instruction, relevant literature, including digital and multi-literacies in a diverse learning environment. Courses are conveniently offered in the late afternoon and evening hours and students can begin the program in any of the three semesters (fall, spring or summer). Reading Specialist PreK-12 certification program coursework takes 1-2 years to complete

Field experiences throughout the program provide an opportunity to engage in PreK-12 classrooms settings to apply the strategies and tools learned in classes. The practicum is the culminating activity of the certification and master’s programs and is offered for four weeks in the summer. Under the supervision of faculty, students engage in a unique experience on Arcadia’s campus with students from local school districts. Working with small groups in a supportive environment, our practicum students apply the knowledge of prescriptive / diagnostic assessment and instruction as part of a community outreach program.

Accreditations

Our programs are accredited for certification by PA Department of Education, and the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) for having met the standards outlined in the IDA’S Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading.