"Penn GSE has given me new ideas to try in the classroom that are grounded in current research, affirming my students' identities and different backgrounds."
Suzanne Cilli | 3rd Grade Teacher in the School District of Philadelphia
Become Certified to be a Reading Specialist
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
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Rolling Application Deadline
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Fall or Spring Entry Term
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Part-Time Enrollment Format
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6 Courses
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2 Years Duration
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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.
Take the Next Step
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Financial Aid
Hear From Our Students
Hear From Our Students
Suzanne Cilli | 3rd Grade Teacher in the School District of Philadelphia
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.
Do you have questions about the coursework?
We are here to help! Contact the program staff below.
Program Manager: Tamika Easley, teasley@upenn.edu
Administrative Assistant: Alondra Ortiz, ortizalo@upenn.edu
Apply Now
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
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Do you have questions about the application, financial aid, or requirements? We're happy to help!