Program Overview

Master of Arts in Reading

Overview

The Master of Arts in Reading program at Webster University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science of reading and structured literacy. The program is accredited by the International Literacy Association (ILA) and the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), and is recognized nationally for its excellence in reading education.

Program Details

• Average time to complete: 2 years
• Credits required: 30
• Format: Online (asynchronous)

Career Outcomes

• Reading Specialist Certification from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
• Certification as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist from the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI)
• Leadership roles in literacy education
• Advocacy for all learners, including those with dyslexia

Admission Requirements

• Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Teaching certification

Coursework

• The science of reading and structured literacy
• Assessment of reading difficulties and instructional methodologies
• Best practices in reading education
• Dyslexia and reading difficulties

Faculty

• Dr. Paula Witkowski, Director of MA in Reading and the Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia
• Research-focused faculty with expertise in reading education and dyslexia

Testimonials

• "Not only has [this program] helped me to identify specific difficulties in reading, but it has helped me explain these difficulties to parents in a way that makes sense. We are able to build the best plan for intervention, making each precious minute purposeful and powerful." - Katy Phillips, MA in Reading, '21

Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia

• Automatically included in the MA in Reading program
• Can be pursued on its own
• Coursework needed to apply for Certification as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist from the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI)