Educators and parents agree that reading is an important — even critical — life skill. But not all children learn to read easily or at the same pace. Consequently, there is an ongoing demand for educators who specialize in reading instruction and can work with students with varying degrees of difficulty learning to read.
Educators can gain the expertise needed to specialize in this field through in-depth coursework in the online Master of Science in Education (MSEd.) in Reading program from Northwest Missouri State University. Professionals with a reading-focused master’s degree in education can pursue a variety of career options, such as the following four:
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Reading Specialist
According to the International Reading Association, “Reading specialists are professionals with advanced preparation and experience in reading who have responsibility for the literacy performance of readers in general and struggling readers in particular.” A reading specialist supports and supplements classroom teaching, working collaboratively with the general education teacher to meet the needs of students.
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Literacy Coach
There are multiple definitions of literacy coaching, and varying coaching models can result in different practices. But, as explained by ZipRecruiter, the primary role of the literacy coach is to “assist teachers in helping students develop their reading skills.” Literacy coaches work primarily with teachers, providing instructional guidance, strategies, support, resources, data analysis and insight to improve teachers’ literacy instruction skills.
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Reading Teacher
As specialists in reading and literacy, reading teachers are involved in all aspects of reading, speaking, listening and writing instruction. The reading teacher may work collaboratively with the classroom teacher or have a separate room where students who need additional support come for one-on-one or small group instruction. Reading teachers may also work with students in all grade levels who have learning disabilities and adapt lessons in all content areas to meet the needs of the students.
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Reading Interventionist
A reading interventionist works with students who do not meet the standards set for each grade level. Typically, the interventionist screens students to detect reading disorders and identify those in need of additional instruction. If students are not progressing academically at the same rate as their peers and are at risk for failing a state’s “high stakes” end-of-year achievement tests, the reading interventionist provides enhanced opportunities to learn. Reading interventionists monitor student progress closely and adjust the intensity, content and delivery of interventions to meet the needs of individual students.
Obtaining a Master of Science in Education in Reading Degree
Educators who want to work with students with diverse learning styles and reading levels can obtain an MSEd. in Reading degree through the fully online program at Northwest Missouri State University. This 30-credit-hour program is flexible and offers multiple start dates. With accelerated, online courses, experienced educators at all levels can complete this master’s program in as few as 12 months. Courses include Data Literacy and Assessment for Schools; Multicultural Education for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; and Literacy-Based Assessment and Analysis, among others. Field experience at both the elementary and secondary levels is also a component of graduate literacy practicum courses.
Graduates of Northwest’s online MSEd. in Reading program have the necessary knowledge and skills to develop reading and writing curricula along with appropriate assessments. In addition, they learn how to create effective learning environments using programs and strategies that promote literacy at all levels.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online MSEd. in Reading program.
