Reading Specialist Program (RDS) MS

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.

Admission and Full-Acceptance

Initial Admission

Candidates seeking admission to the Graduate Reading Specialist Program must have completed a baccalaureate degree at an accredited institution with an overall minimum G.P.A. of 3.00*. Applicants must hold a valid initial teaching certification in Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education.

The formal admission process incorporates the following documentation:

Application to Graduate School indicating the proposed area of study;
Official transcripts verifying completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.00*;
Initial teaching certification for Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, or Special Education;
State-designated qualifying scores for the Praxis Exam or equivalency;
Three letters of reference 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/or one Reading Elective).

*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 two successful clinical screenings and completion of the following course sequence:

All candidates must successfully complete a six-credit supervised practicum experience in the McDaniel College Reading Clinic

RDS 552 - Reading Specialist Practicum

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.

Courses