Program Overview

Introduction to the Reading and Literacy Education MAEd

The Master of Arts in Reading and Literacy Education Degree is an online 30 semester-hour program designed to develop advanced competencies in K-12 reading and literacy education. The program focuses on areas such as foundational knowledge, curriculum and instruction, assessment and evaluation, diversity and equity, the literacy environment, literacy leadership, and practical experiences. At least 24 hours are in reading and literacy education with a focus on excellence and equity.

Program Overview

The desired outcome of the program is the preparation of specialized literacy professionals, particularly reading/literacy specialists who are able to support K-12 students' reading and literacy education and to serve as leaders in the literacy profession.

ECU Advantage

The program has a long-standing tradition and reputation for excellence in teacher preparation. It is totally online, allowing flexibility and convenience, and is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The tuition cost is affordable, with NC residents paying about $250 per credit hour for distance education tuition, for a total tuition cost of about $7,500.

Key Features

• The program is cutting edge, aligning with the latest International Literacy Association Standards for Literacy Professionals, The International Dyslexia Association Standards, North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards, and North Carolina Digital Learning Competencies.
• There is an opportunity for advanced teaching licensure, with candidates who successfully complete the program being eligible to apply for the add-on K-12 Reading license.
• Practicum experiences can typically be completed in candidates' own classrooms or, if not employed, placements can be arranged.
• There are multiple conditions for entrance exam waiver, considering candidates' undergraduate GPA and professional experience.
• The program is designed and taught by internationally recognized literacy faculty who mentor graduate students.

What You Will Study

The Reading and Literacy Education, MAEd, is designed to develop advanced competencies in K-12 reading and literacy education. The degree requires a minimum of 30 semester hours, including:

Core Courses

• READ 5316 - Word Study: Phonics, Spelling, and Vocabulary Instruction
• READ 5317 - Adolescent Literacy in the Content Areas
• READ 6101 - Learning to Read: From Novice to Expert
• READ 6102 - Literacy Development and Instruction K-5
• READ 6103 - Literacy Development and Instruction 6-12
• READ 6104 - Assessment and Evaluation in Literacy Education
• READ 6105 - Fostering Connection, Belonging and Engagement in Literacy Instruction
• READ 6106 - Using Literacy Assessment for Instructional Intervention
• READ 6107 - Literacy Leadership and Coaching

Electives

Take 3 semester hours of approved electives in areas related to the role of the literacy specialist, such as:

• Academically or intellectually gifted (AIG)
• Adult literacy
• Adult education
• Educational leadership
• Educational research
• Elementary education
• Instructional technology
• Library science
• Reading and literacy
• Special education
• Supervision
• Teaching English as a second language (TESL)
• Other areas in consultation with advisor

Comprehensive Culminating Assessment Requirement

The program includes a comprehensive culminating assessment requirement, details of which can be found in the university's academic catalogs.