Master of Arts (m.a.)
Reading Master's
with Endorsement
Program Highlights & Benefits
Convenient online and face to face cohort formats available
2 year completion time, including holiday breaks
One course completed every 8 weeks
Transfer credits considered
Program Objectives
The Master of Arts in Reading Education provides a theoretical and practical framework for literacy instruction and assessment within an emphasis on current research. The program is designed to address pain points being experienced by teachers across the country. Upon successful completion of the required courses and the Illinois 221 Reading Specialist Test, candidates are eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist* credential, enabling them to work in a reading professional role in K-12 settings.
- Science of Reading – Participants are afforded a robust understanding of the science of reading.
- Address Achievement Gaps – Coursework is designed to support your use of assessments to improve recent declines in reading proficiency.
- Classroom Application – Coursework is designed to not only expand your understanding of the reading process, but also helps participants apply evidence based instructional practices. You will learn exactly what the best practice is, and how to bring it to life in your classroom.
- Versatile Curriculum – Participants will learn how to implement best practices in reading across all content areas.
To be eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist credential, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid Illinois PEL prior to entering program
- Successfully complete the Master of Arts in Reading coursework
- Pass all state of Illinois examinations
- Have successfully completed two years of lead teaching experience
*The Illinois Reading Specialist credential requires Illinois licensure (PEL). Students with out-of-state licensure are welcome to enroll in the Reading Education program, but are not eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist credential.
Questions regarding reciprocity by state should be directed toward the student’s state of licensure or Illinois State Board of Education at isbe.net.
Areas of Study
| Course | Title | Hours |
| EDU 6200 | Beginning Reading Instruction | 3 |
| EDU 6205 | Foundations of Language and Reading Theory | 3 |
| EDU-6212 | Studies in Literacy and Multiliteracy | 3 |
| EDU 6230 | Content Reading: Middle and Secondary Schools | 3 |
| EDU-6234 | Assessment of Reading with Remedial Materials and Resources | 6 |
| EDU-6291 | Roles, Relationships and Ethics of the Reading Professional | 3 |
| EDU-6298 | Reading Practicum Using Developmental Instruction and Support (16 weeks) | 6 |
| EDU-6300 | Perspectives in Research and Literature Across all Grade Ranges | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 |
Reading Specialist Credential
Upon successful completion of the required courses and the Illinois 221 Reading Specialist Test, candidates are eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist* credential, enabling them to work in a reading specialist role in early childhood, elementary, middle, and/or secondary Illinois school settings.
Reading Teacher Credential
Upon successful completion of the required courses and the Illinois #177 Reading Teacher Content Test, candidates are eligible for the Illinois Reading Teacher Subsequent Endorsement credential, enabling them to work as a reading teacher in early childhood, elementary, middle, and/or secondary Illinois school settings.
Master's Capstone Experience
A reading capstone is a requirement for the Master of Arts in Reading program and the Reading Endorsement program. A capstone is a summary of work that demonstrates growth toward, and understanding of, professional standards. The capstone provides an opportunity for performance-based evaluation and promotes reflective practice. It also demonstrates the professional’s competence in using technology and applying theory into practice. All work required for the capstone is embedded in the coursework and practical experiences throughout the program.
NOTE: This is only an introduction of the program. You are responsible to review the Graduate Catalog for program details.
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