M.Ed. in Reading

 
The M.Ed. in reading provides prospective reading specialists with integrated experiences in all aspects of the reading curriculum, ranging from preschool to adult levels. This nationally-accredited and Virginia Board of Education-approved program promotes a passion for lifelong reading education, embracing literacy practices across all levels (early childhood, elementary, intermediate, secondary and adult).

Students will gain an understanding of the developmental and diagnostic processes involved in teaching reading and the language arts, and will learn to effectively plan reading and literacy instruction. Prior to graduation, students must complete a reading portfolio documenting their work in the program and related work experiences.

The online reading program offers students a high level of flexibility for managing their time and coursework. The program features interactive dialogues, asynchronous online discussions, synchronous online conversations and coaching opportunities.

An externship course enables candidates to work collaboratively to implement an action research project and share results of their learning through a virtual presentation. Candidates will be required to complete a three-credit internship, which enables candidates to provide intensive instruction to struggling learners, collaborate with colleagues and practice coaching skills under the direct supervision of VCU faculty.

Current Virginia Teachers Interested in English Language Learners (ELL)

For those who already hold a Virginia teaching license, this program provides the knowledge needed for the TESOL Praxis exam, which is required in order to add an ESL endorsement to your teaching license. The program is designed for those wishing to develop their skills in working with multilingual learners in a variety of contexts including general education and content area classrooms, outside-of-school programs, and other settings.

Future TESOL/English Language Educators

The TESOL K-12 and Adult concentrations support professionals internationally who would like to learn and apply the critical skills to support English Language and Multi-language learners around the globe. From virtual tutoring to private international schools, the skill sets and pedagogy in this program help you prepare for roles with a diversity of educational settings.

CONCENTRATIONS/VCU BULLETIN INFO

• K-12 reading specialist
• TESOL/K-12
• TESOL/Adult

PROGRAM BASICS

How to apply: Graduate application
Semester of entry: Spring, summer or fall
Application deadline: Feb. 1 for fall and summer admission; Oct. 1 for spring admission. Extended deadline for summer and fall 2021: April 1.
Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Application checklist [PDF]

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• General admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School
• Bachelor’s degree
• Three letters of recommendation addressing the student's potential for graduate study in education
• Statement of intent
• Transcripts of all previous college work

FOR MORE IN-DEPTH INFO

• Teaching and Learning academic programs
• Five-year extended teacher preparation program
• Licensure to program comparison chart
• Student spotlight: Tiffany Freeman