Reading Specialist

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.

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.

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.