The role of a reading specialist is vital to every school. With expertise in assessment, skill development, and remediation, a Reading Specialist is equipped to collaborate with other professionals to address the strengths and needs of learners at all performance levels in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Program Details
-
Summer or Fall Entry Term
-
Part-Time Enrollment Format
-
2 Years Duration
-
On Campus Modality
Overview
The Reading Specialist Certification program prepares educators to effectively support literacy development among diverse learners using collaborative and assessment-driven methods. Participants explore constructivist approaches, integrating theory and practice from literature, educational linguistics, cognitive psychology, curriculum, and anthropology. The program emphasizes familiarity with children’s and adolescent literature and its practical application in teaching across grade levels. Educators engage in collaborative inquiry into adolescent literacy, examining various media and conducting fieldwork to understand students' cultural and linguistic resources.
- Curriculum
If you already have a Master’s degree in a relevant field in Education, you are eligible for a six-course sequence resulting in certification as a Reading Specialist. An seven course is required for students without a teaching certification and one year of teaching experience.
For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Reading Specialist Certification in the University Catalog.
- Tuition and Fees
View the tuition and fees for the Reading Specialist Certification
More Information
We are no longer accepting applications for new student entry to this program. Penn GSE offers many programs to support your professional journey in the higher education landscape and beyond.
Do you have questions?
We're happy to help! Contact the Admissions team at admissions@gse.upenn.edu.
Contact Us
Do you have questions about this program?