Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis)

Hours: 36 Online

About

Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program prepares educators to become leaders in literacy education. Designed for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the science of reading, the program enhances expertise in literacy instruction, including strategies for struggling readers, as well as literacy assessment. Participants gain the skills and knowledge to effectively teach reading to students from PreK through 12th grade, supporting learners at all levels—from those facing challenges to advanced readers in both elementary and secondary education.

Why pursue a Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) at Fort Hays State University?

The program offers exceptional flexibility through a fully online format and an affordable cost structure. It equips educators with the knowledge and skills needed to become transformative leaders in literacy education. Guided by experienced faculty, participants develop expertise in evidence-based literacy practices, effective instructional strategies, and supporting diverse learners.

Who is this program for?

FHSU recognizes the power of educators who ignite a passion for reading in their students. This Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) is designed to equip educators at all stages of their careers with the knowledge and skills to cultivate thriving literacy environments and empower all students to become successful readers.

Current educators with a bachelor’s degree and teaching license
Classroom champions
Instructional leaders
Those with a passion for supporting literacy development

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) prepares educators to become leading experts in literacy. The program fosters a deep understanding of how children acquire reading skills, offers practical strategies to support struggling readers, and provides the tools needed to create inclusive and engaging learning environments.

Foundational Expertise for Effective Instruction

The program builds a solid foundation in the science of reading and writing. Participants explore key theories and research that underpin effective instruction, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how children learn to read, comprehend, and write. This knowledge enables educators to choose the most effective methods and materials to address the diverse needs of their students.

Building a Literacy Curriculum

The program goes beyond theory to offer practical tools for designing and implementing a comprehensive literacy curriculum grounded in the science of reading. Graduates learn to integrate diverse instructional approaches, including oral language fluency development, explicit phonics instruction, and strategies to foster a lifelong love of literature.

Assessment Expertise

Students develop mastery in literacy assessment by learning to select and use reliable tools to identify student strengths and weaknesses. They also gain skills to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and advocate for evidence-based literacy practices.

Fostering a Thriving Literacy Environment

In today's classrooms, cultivating an appreciation for cultural differences and inspiring a love of reading and writing for all students is essential. This approach emphasizes creating inclusive and engaging learning spaces where students feel empowered to explore diverse texts and express themselves through writing. Participants develop strategies to promote collaboration, build positive relationships with students, and ignite a passion for literacy that reaches beyond the classroom walls.

Real-World Applications

This program equips aspiring reading specialists with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on struggling readers. It goes beyond theory, providing practical tools that empower participants to excel in education. Graduates develop expertise in designing engaging, systematic, cumulative, explicit, and data-driven reading instruction tailored to diverse student needs. By incorporating evidence-based literacy practices, the program ensures the ability to create strong, multi-modal reading programs that foster student success.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Developing strong literacy skills is essential for student success. Fort Hays State University’s Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program prepares educators with the knowledge and skills needed to excel on the Reading Specialist Praxis Exam and become leaders in literacy education. The curriculum aligns with the latest licensure standards and the science of reading, ensuring graduates are equipped to support colleagues and enhance literacy learning for all students.

Practical Activities

Students actively engage in applied coursework throughout the program, including READ 883: Clinical Reading Diagnosis and Remediation. In this course, students use a variety of literacy assessments, analyze results, and develop targeted instructional plans. The program culminates with READ 885: The School Reading Program practicum, offering hands-on experience through collaboration with experienced educators in real-world school settings.

What You’ll Learn:

Foster a strong literacy culture in the school
Master evidence-based teaching strategies
Support students with various learning needs
Use data to improve reading outcomes
Develop a multi-model reading program

How You’ll Learn:

Online, asynchronous format (flexible pace)
Apply knowledge in authentic settings
Coursework with real-world applications
Evaluate curricular materials, programs, and assessment
Practical activities in classrooms with an emphasis on the science of reading

Courses

The Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program offers a core curriculum that establishes a solid foundation in 21st-century teaching and learning. Students explore the best practices in technology integration, research methodologies, data analysis and assessment, instructional design, and cultural diversity. These courses prepare educators to build classrooms that are engaging, evidence-based, and culturally responsive. Below are a few of the courses in the Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program:

READ 881: Content Area Reading

This course explores the reading process and strategies to develop students’ disciplinary literacy. Participants design instruction that enhances students' use of literacy tools for deeper content understanding.

READ 883: Clinical Reading Diagnosis and Remediation

This course provides clinical practice in conducting intensive evaluations of students with reading disabilities based on the science of reading. Participants will learn to administer, score, and interpret informal and standardized tests, including parent and child interviews for background information.

READ 885: The School Reading Program (Practicum)

This practicum focuses on organizing the school reading program and its relationships with students, parents, teachers, and administrators. It includes practical experience in reading instruction and mentoring colleagues, insights from resource materials, and discussions with cooperating teachers and the reading program administrator. Participants will demonstrate the KSDE objectives for reading specialist endorsement.

Discover the full Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

A Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) equips educators with the advanced skills and expertise needed to lead in the field of literacy education. Graduates often pursue impactful careers within school systems, frequently experiencing increased earning potential and expanded leadership opportunities. Many serve as reading specialists, directly supporting students with reading challenges and helping to implement school-wide literacy initiatives. This specialized degree opens the door to a wide range of meaningful and rewarding career paths. Here are some exciting possibilities:

Reading Specialist

Reading specialists identify and support students with reading challenges. They design and implement targeted interventions, often working one-on-one or in small groups, to build literacy skills and promote academic success.

Literacy Coach

Literacy coaches collaborate with teachers to strengthen reading instruction through professional development, classroom observations, and coaching on evidence-based practices. Their expertise supports engaging, literacy-rich environments that help all students thrive.

Reading Program Coordinator

Reading program coordinators oversee the development and implementation of school-wide literacy initiatives. They work closely with educators and administrators to align reading instruction with state standards and ensure the curriculum supports the diverse needs of all students.

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum developers design engaging, research-based reading materials that support effective instruction. They apply their expertise in literacy and instructional design to create resources that help educators meet diverse student needs and foster a love of reading across classrooms.

Reading Interventionist

Reading interventionists provide targeted support to students with reading difficulties. Using evidence-based strategies, they work closely with students and teachers to address specific challenges, helping learners build essential literacy skills and make meaningful progress.

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants offer expert guidance to schools and districts on improving academic outcomes, particularly in literacy. With advanced knowledge of reading development and instructional best practices, they help design, evaluate, and strengthen reading programs to ensure effective instruction and student success.

Admission Requirements

The Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program is designed for both new educators and experienced professionals who are committed to improving student outcomes and advancing their careers in literacy education. To ensure readiness for the program's rigorous academic and practical components, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Bachelor's Degree

A completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.

Strong Academic Performance

Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher based on the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework, demonstrating a strong academic foundation and readiness for graduate-level study.

Current Teaching License

An active teaching license is essential, as this program prepares educators to apply specialized reading instruction strategies directly within their classrooms.

Personal Statement

A personal statement describing the applicant's background and reasons for entering the program is necessary. This allows the admissions committee to understand the applicant's motivations and goals.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation as part of the application process. These should be on official letterhead and include the author's signature. Recommendations provide insights into the applicant's professional background, character, and potential for success in the program.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement reading specialist aspirations. Here are a few to consider:

FAQ

What distinguishes the Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program?

Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) program offers flexibility with a fully online format and affordability. It caters to educators aiming to enhance their expertise in reading instruction, including literacy assessment for striving readers. The program emphasizes evidence-based literacy practices to teach reading effectively to students across all grades, from PreK-12.

How does the program cover various aspects of literacy education, including literacy assessment, intervention strategies, and literacy coaching?

The curriculum covers various aspects of literacy education, such as literacy assessment, intervention strategies, and literacy mentoring and coaching. It prepares graduates to analyze reading literacy assessment data, select practical follow-up assessments, and create engaging, systematic, and data-driven reading instruction. The program integrates best practices in literacy education, including structured literacy instruction and the science of reading, to ensure graduates are well-equipped to support their colleagues and improve literacy learning across diverse student populations.

Are there specific concentrations or areas of focus within the Master of Science in Education program, such as early literacy or special education literacy?

The program does not offer specific concentrations but provides a comprehensive foundation in literacy theory, research, and best practices. This foundation prepares educators to design and implement individualized and small-group reading instruction tailored to current research and the diverse needs of students in PreK-12 settings.

What career opportunities or roles does completing a Master of Science in Education (Reading Specialist Emphasis) offer?

The program allows you to become a reading specialist, literacy coach, Title I teacher, reading program coordinator, school literacy leader, and more.

How long will it take me to complete the program?

Thanks to its online, asynchronous format, the program is designed to be completed at your own pace. This flexibility lets you structure your learning around personal and professional obligations. Most participants complete the program in about 2 years.

Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs

FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.

AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.

Accreditations

Reading Specialist

Master's
Endorsement

Online

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