Program Description
The Master of Arts in Education: Reading Specialist program is designed to assist practicing teachers in becoming specialists in the area of reading. Through this program, teachers learn how to design assessment, differentiate instruction for text complexity, and design instructional approaches to improve Kindergarten - 12th grade literacy.
Practicing teachers within this program will learn through an interactive format such as online forums, discussion groups, collaborative assignments, and pragmatic case studies. As a candidate in this program, you will study strategies for improving reading comprehension, fluency, vocabulary, phonics and phonemic awareness. Candidates will learn how to assess reading difficulties, analyze and interpret test data, and provide direction for response to intervention initiatives. Focus on diverse learning needs and linguistic differences in a day of CCSS will be included, as well as current technology that facilitates effective reading and writing instruction for learners of different ages, ability levels, and ethnic backgrounds.
The coursework within the Reading Specialist program meets the International Reading/Literacy Association Standards for Reading Professionals and the Illinois Standards for Reading Specialists. Three 15-clock hour clinical practicum experiences and a 32-clock hour creative research project/practicum are required within your classroom or school.
Licensure Information
Begin to research and understand your state’s licensure requirements. In the state of Illinois, candidates are required to achieve passing results on the Content Area PreK-12 Reading Teacher #177 or K-12 Reading Specialist Exam #221. Olivet’s Education programs that lead to licensure or endorsement are approved in Illinois. For out-of-state candidates seeking licensure, a review of coursework by the state’s Department of Education may be needed.
