Reading Education, M.Ed.

Designed for experienced teachers, the M.Ed. in Reading Education program qualifies graduates for the North Carolina Advanced Standard Professional II teaching license in K-12 reading education. Relevant to all areas of the K-12 curriculum, this program is designed for classroom teachers and aspiring literacy specialists who are interested in improving instructional programs and practices that promote literacy among all learners.

Based on professional standards published by the International Reading Association and the N.C. State Department of Education, the program prepares graduates who: 1) understand the theoretical and evidence-based foundations of literacy, including reading and writing processes and instruction; 2) use instructional approaches, materials and an integrated, comprehensive, balanced curriculum to support student learning in reading and writing; 3) use a variety of assessment tools and practices to plan and evaluate effective reading and literacy instruction; 4) create and engage their students in literacy practices that develop awareness, understanding, respect, and a valuing of differences and diversity in our society; and 5) demonstrate, and facilitate professional learning and leadership as a career-long effort and responsibility by serving as a resource to educate teachers, administrators, and the community.

The M.Ed. in Reading Education program is offered fully online. The program is designed as a cohort model. Students can complete the degree within two years/five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring).

Admission Requirements

The M.Ed. in Reading Education does not have admissions testing requirements (e.g., the MAT or GRE). Applicants may elect to submit a GRE or MAT test score as part of their application but are not required for consideration for admission to the program.

Early Entry Program

Exceptional undergraduate students at UNC Charlotte may apply for the Early Entry Program and begin work toward the graduate degree before completion of the baccalaureate degree. See the Undergraduate Catalog for details and requirements. Also see the Degree Requirements and Academic Policies section of the Graduate Catalog for more information about Early Entry Programs.

Degree Requirements

The M.Ed. in Reading Education program requires a total of 33 credit hours of courses in three phases:

Phase I: Foundations of Literacy and Leadership (6 credit hours)

Phase II: Developmentally Appropriate Assessment and Instruction (21 credit hours)

Phase III: Advanced Literacy Intervention and Leadership (6 credit hours)

Degree Total= 33 Credit Hours

Clinical Field Experiences

Students in the M.Ed. in Reading Education program participate in field experiences that require them to apply coursework in classroom settings, analyze K-12 student learning, and reflect on their practice in the context of theories on teaching and learning. Students deepen their understanding of the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions that foster student learning. These experiences broaden their ability to help all students learn, including children with exceptionalities and students from diverse ethnic/racial, linguistic, gender, and socioeconomic groups. These field experiences are embedded in course assignments and are often conducted in a student’s classroom if they are currently teaching. These field experiences also can take place in multiple settings such as neighboring schools or districts, day care centers and afterschool programs, or youth centers.

Assistantships

The Department typically has a limited number of Graduate Assistantships, pending resources. Applications are available from the Department of Reading and Elementary Education.

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