Concordia University Chicago's Master of Arts in Reading Education program provides a theoretical and practical framework for literacy instruction and assessment with an emphasis on current research. The program also provides candidates the opportunity to receive a rigorous, high-quality educational program that encourages the development of skills and competencies that will be needed throughout the candidate’s professional career as a reading specialist or literacy coach. Upon successful completion of the required program courses and a passing score on the corresponding Illinois State Licensure Test(s), candidates are eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist credential*, enabling them to work in a reading professional role in PK-12 settings.
To be eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist credential, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid Illinois PEL prior to entering program
- Successfully complete the Master of Arts in Reading coursework
- Pass all state of Illinois examinations
- Have successfully completed two years of lead teaching experience
*The Illinois Reading Specialist credential requires Illinois licensure (PEL). Students with out-of-state licensure are welcome to enroll in the Reading Education program, but are not eligible for the Illinois Reading Specialist credential. Questions regarding reciprocity by state should be directed toward the student’s state of licensure or Illinois State Board of Education at isbe.net.
General Graduate Admission Requirements
All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Concordia University Chicago graduate programs as published in the Concordia University Chicago academic catalog.
New students are accepted into graduate degree-seeking, certificate, endorsement and/or post-graduate programs for online and on-campus study in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Previously admitted students seeking to change programs may do so at the beginning of a semester (only) by submitting a Change-of-Program quick app. Applicants must be in good academic standing according to Concordia University Chicago’s satisfactory academic progress standards at the time of requesting a program change.
Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| EDU-6200 | Beginning Reading Instruction | 3 |
| EDU-6205 | Foundations of Language and Reading Theory | 3 |
| EDU-6212 | Studies in Literacy and Multiliteracy | 3 |
| EDU-6230 | Content Reading: Middle and Secondary Schools | 3 |
| EDU-6234 | Assessment of Reading with Remedial Materials and Resources | 6 |
| EDU-6291 | Roles, Relationships and Ethics of the Reading Professional | 3 |
| EDU-6298 | Reading Practicum Using Developmental Instruction and Support (16 weeks) | 6 |
| EDU-6300 | Perspectives in Research and Literature Across all Grade Ranges | 3 |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Graduation Requirements
- Have on file an application as a degree-seeking graduate student.
- Have on file one official transcript from EACH college/university attended of all previous coursework taken.
- Complete, for the degree being sought:
- the credit hours and levels as designated,
- within the specified time limit,
- with grades of C- or higher,
- with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Students completing multiple advanced programs or degrees at CUC must have a 3.0 GPA in each academic program in addition to a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- If transfer credit is approved to be applied: have on file an approved “Graduate Transfer Credit Approval” form(s) or evaluation(s).
- Have on file the Intent to Graduate/Complete form with the Office of the Registrar by the published deadline.
- Have on file, if applicable, necessary copies of a project, thesis or dissertation.
- Take and pass the final examination or terminal requirements in the program during or after the final course.
- Approval of the faculty.
- All administrative obligations to CUC must be cleared in order to prompt the release of CUC transcripts and diploma(s).
Every attempt has been made to include information to aid the student with information about his/her program, degree and graduation/completion requirements. It is, however, the student’s responsibility to complete all steps and meet all deadlines relevant to graduation requirements.
This program does not lead to initial Illinois licensure (PEL) but will, through direct university entitlement, lead to an additional credential on your existing PEL. The awarding of this credential will require the completion of this academic program and an existing and active PEL, and may require a passing score on the corresponding Illinois State Licensure Test(s), associated work experience, a previous master's degree, and completion of a state training academy. For specific requirements regarding this credential please refer to ISBE’s webpage or contact the Licensure Officer at licensure@cuchicago.edu.