Reading, Master of Education

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This program is designed for experienced educators who hold an initial teaching license and seek to deepen their expertise in reading instruction. Graduates may choose to serve as reading specialists at the early childhood, elementary, middle, secondary, or post-secondary levels, or remain classroom teachers with advanced knowledge of literacy. Upon completion, candidates may be endorsed by Salem State University for the Massachusetts Teacher of Reading license. Educators in early childhood, special education, ESL, or elementary education who are pursuing professional licensure in their current field may also use this program to qualify for and independently apply to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for professional licensure in their respective area.

Courses in the program will help students develop an understanding of reading and writing processes, enhance classroom reading instruction, assess reading difficulties and intervene instructionally, use literature in reading and language arts programs, and carry out teacher leadership roles in reading. One hundred and fifty hours of supervised field work are required of those pursuing the Specialist Teacher of Reading license. The program meets DESE regulations for initial licensure as a Specialist Teacher of Reading.

Admission Requirements

Additional admission requirements

EDU 739 - Literacy Instructional Methods in Early Childhood and Elementary Classrooms

or an equivalent course.

For individual seeking a Reading specialist license: Initial or professional Massachusetts teaching license.

Program Requirements

Upon acceptance into the program, you will complete a tentative Plan of Study in consultation with the program coordinator. You must request that any transfer credits be considered at this time. Please note that no more than three courses taken at Salem State University before admission can be counted towards this program. You should meet regularly with the program coordinator to discuss your progress and revise your plan of study as needed.

Program of Study

**M.Ed. Reading Total Credits: 30-33

Courses for Add-On Special Education License: 18-21 credits

Reading, M.Ed., + Special Education License (30 - 53.5 variable credits)

Additional Information and Notes

*The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requires teachers seeking the Initial Specialist Teacher of Reading License to have at least an Initial Teaching License and at least one year of experience under that license.

** Students may take 21-30 credits in the Specialist Teacher of Reading-Initial License Only program depending on prior graduate coursework and in consultation with the program coordinator. The program coordinator will document content standards through a careful review of official transcripts and course syllabi.

In order for the Reading Specialist practicum application to be approved for enrollment in EDU 840P , Practicum for the Reading Specialist, candidates must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the program, with no individual course grade lower than a B. Candidates struggling to meet academic or professional standards in the reading license program may complete one intervention process (e.g., student-at-risk or academic improvement plan) but if they fail to meet academic and professional standards after completing this intervention, they will be dismissed from the licensure program.

Curriculum & Instruction Track (Total 30 Credits)

Non-Licensure Option

Reading, Curriculum & Instruction, Masters of Education is designed for those interested in a master’s degree in reading to become skilled literacy practitioner, tutors, coaches, and/or literacy leaders. Two courses of interest are selected in lieu of the practicum and seminar required for licensure programs.

The reading coursework provides opportunities for participants to gain deep knowledge of literacy development PreK-12 as well as the knowledge skills, and dispositions to implement evidence-based, inclusive, culturally responsive practices using high-quality instructional materials and assessments. Participants will learn to navigate the tensions in the field to provide effective instruction for all students. Professional development design, collaboration, and coaching are also emphasized to prepare participants to become literacy leaders in a variety of settings.

Variable Credit

Variable credit programs are designed to address a student’s academic plan while adhering to the program requirements and standards of the profession. Based on their background (e.g., prior coursework, select endorsements), some students may be approved for the minimum number of credits of the program and other students may need additional coursework. Students will work with the Graduate Program Coordinator to determine the best fit of courses within the structure of the program and propose the Plan of Study to the School of Graduate Studies for review and approval. Students who enter the program with specific course competencies do not need to retake the corresponding course at Salem State University. In the event that a student has met the competencies that would cause fewer than 30 credits in the program, the student would take elective courses in consultation with the program coordinator to attain the minimum required credits for graduation.