I really enjoyed earning my Master's degree in Reading Education at Marywood University through the online program. I was able to take classes online while still working fu...
Are you passionate about literacy and helping students become stronger, more confident readers? Take the next step in your teaching career with a reading specialist degree from Marywood University’s Master of Science in Reading Education program. This 33-credit graduate program is designed for certified teachers who want to deepen their understanding of reading instruction, assessment, and intervention. Through a balance of theory and practice, you’ll gain the tools to identify and address reading challenges, implement evidence-based teaching strategies, and foster literacy growth in students across PK–12 classrooms.
Become a Certified Reading or Literacy Specialist
Marywood’s Reading Education program offers two certification options so you can tailor your studies to your career goals: Earn your Master of Science in Reading Education, which includes Reading Specialist certification (PK–12), or obtain only the Literacy Specialist certification (PK–12).
This reading specialist degree program aligns with national standards set by the International Literacy Association, ensuring that you are prepared to meet the evolving needs of diverse learners in today’s classrooms.
Research-Based Coursework with Real-World Application
Each course connects literacy theory with practical classroom experience. You’ll explore research-backed methods to enhance reading comprehension, address literacy challenges, and design effective interventions. Coursework emphasizes advanced reading instruction techniques, literacy assessment and data-driven decision-making, strategies for supporting diverse learners, and the integration of literacy across all content areas.
By graduation, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to improve literacy outcomes and guide other educators in effective reading instruction.
Lead Literacy Initiatives and Inspire Lifelong Learning
Graduates of Marywood’s reading specialist degree program are equipped to lead literacy programs within schools or districts, support reading development for learners at all levels, apply advanced assessment and intervention strategies, and advocate for literacy education and lifelong learning.
Candidates must pass the Praxis examinations required for certification in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This program is offered as a second certification for educators who already hold initial teaching licensure.
Advance Your Career with a Reading Specialist Degree from Marywood
If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact on student literacy and lead with expertise, Marywood University’s Master of Science in Reading Education offers the knowledge, experience, and credentials you need. Inspire a love of reading, support academic success, and advance your teaching career with a reading specialist degree from Marywood University.
Graduate Assistantships help students pay their way through graduate school while giving them the experience they need for success after graduation.
Marywood is ranked #14 Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings for 2026, making Marywood a great, centrally located option for students in Northeastern Pennsylvania who want to stay closer to home.
I really enjoyed earning my Master's degree in Reading Education at Marywood University through the online program. I was able to take classes online while still working fu...
Visit campus during one of our admissions events specially designed for you to learn more about your degree program, or schedule an individual appointment with a graduate admissions counselor by clicking on the Weekday Visits link.
Weekday Visits »Marywood University hosts three academic Centers of Excellence on campus; The Center for Law, Justice and Policy, The Center for Urban Studies, and The Mother Theresa Maxis, IHM Center. Each center provides students with the tools and resources to excel in their academic endeavors, fostering a dynamic environment where they can engage deeply with their respective fields of study and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
Marywood University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSHE). / ADDRESS / 3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West, Philadelphia, PA 19104. | Phone: (267) 284-5000
Marywood University’s education unit is proud to be recognized and approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The approval process establishes rigorous standards for program quality and professional educator competency and holds licensed institutions accountable for meeting these standards.
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