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Dec 04, 2024
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2012-2013 Graduate & Professional Studies [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Reading Specialist Program (RDS) MS
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Overview
The graduate program for certification of reading specialists is designed to create contemporary leaders in literacy education. The program offers a comprehensive approach to reading instruction and incorporates current research, theoretical perspectives, informed practice, and thoughtful reflection. Candidates implement a repertoire of assessment procedures and instructional techniques to address the needs of diverse learners. In addition, graduate candidates develop the capacity to coordinate and enhance school-wide literacy through professional development initiatives, literacy coaching, mentoring experiences, and collaboration with professional colleagues, support teams, parents, and students.
This comprehensive 36-credit graduate reading program has been evaluated and approved by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), International Reading Association (IRA), and the Maryland State Department of Education. Pennsylvania State Department of Education guidelines are addressed during the advisement process for students seeking employment in and/or licensure in Pennsylvania. Initial Admission
Candidates seeking admission to the Graduate Reading Specialist Program must submit the following documentation:
- application to graduate study with non-refundable fee;
- official transcript conferring bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.0* GPA) from an accredited institution;
- valid initial teaching certification for Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education;
- state-designated qualifying scores for the Praxis Exam or equivalency;
- three completed reference forms with checklists linked to the Professional Unit’s Conceptual Framework.
Following the admission process, each candidate is individually advised and a preliminary program plan is outlined for the first nine graduate credits in Reading (RDS 540, RDS 542, RDG 532 and RDG 533).
*Students not meeting this criterion may be admitted to program on a conditional basis. Full acceptance status will be reviewed at the completion of nine graduate credits. Full Acceptance
After successful completion of the nine-credit preliminary plan, candidates are eligible to for a full acceptance review. The full acceptance process incorporates the following procedures:
- Successful completion of nine graduate credits with a minimum G.P.A. of 3.00;
- Review of all admission documentation: application, three professional references, official transcripts, test scores, and initial teaching certification;
- Interview with Program Coordinator to review documentation and to develop a Program Plan for remaining coursework.
Reading Specialist Practicum
Candidates are admitted to RDS 552 after completion of the following course sequence: All candidates must successfully complete a six-credit supervised practicum experience in the McDaniel College Reading Clinic
Program Completion
In addition to successfully completing practicum requirements and fulfilling 36-credit course requirements with a 3.00 G.P.A., candidates must develop a cumulative Professional Portfolio and pass a written Comprehensive Examination. Phase I: Foundational Knowledge:
Phase II: Diagnostic Teaching and Research Practices:
Phase III: Literacy Leadership and Professional Development:
Elective
One reading-related elective course |
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