Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in Reading and Language Development

The Master of Arts in Reading and Language Development is a graduate program designed for in-service teachers seeking to advance their skills in literacy education. This program is offered by the School of Education & Human Development at Fairfield University.

Program Format and Location

The program is available in online and hybrid formats, providing flexibility for working professionals.

Start Dates and Application Deadline

The program has a rolling admission deadline for the fall semester, which starts in September. Completion of the program typically takes 10-24 months, and classes are held on a part-time schedule.

Program Details

• Credits: 30
• Cost per credit: $955

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Reading and Language Development allows teachers to enhance their expertise in literacy education without leaving the classroom. Through a combination of hybrid and fully online formats, participants collaborate with peers and gain knowledge, credentials, and real-world experience to lead literacy initiatives.

What You'll Learn and Do

Lead with Confidence—and Evidence

Learn to identify and remediate reading and writing difficulties, including dyslexia, across diverse instructional settings. Coursework is grounded in the science of reading and responsive to state and national policy priorities.

Earn Industry-Respected Credentials

Deepen your expertise in Structured Literacy and pursue your Wilson Reading System Level I Certification. This credential signals deep expertise in structured literacy and positions you to effectively support students with language-based learning disabilities.

Gain Insight from Experts in the Field

Work alongside faculty who are nationally recognized for their contributions to literacy education. These practitioner-scholars bring extensive real-world experience and a strong commitment to preparing educators.

Advance Your Schedule

Complete your program in a flexible format designed for working professionals, with online and asynchronous coursework, integrated practicum experiences, and multiple start points.

Course Requirements

• Master of Arts in Remedial Reading and Remedial Language Arts: 30 credits

Community Clinics

The Reading and Language Development Program operates Community Clinics, serving as a resource for the broader community and helping prepare skilled reading educators who are socially aware and morally responsible individuals.

Affiliated Clinics

• Literacy Screening Clinic
• Wilson Reading Intervention Clinic
• Diagnostic Reading Assessment Clinic
• Structured Literacy Tutorial Clinic

Learn from Industry Experts

Fairfield's award-winning adjunct faculty have deep expertise in topics such as remedial reading and language arts, providing firsthand insights and guidance.

Admission Information

From admission to graduation, students receive support at every turn. The Fairfield University student support network is dedicated to meeting students' needs, offering personal, academic, and financial guidance throughout the program.

Related Programs

• Remedial Reading and Remedial Language Arts: Sixth-Year Certificate
• Elementary Education: MA
• Bilingual Education: MA
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages: MA