Master’s in Reading: Elementary Education Emphasis
Master’s in Reading: Elementary Education Emphasis
journey today.
Literacy is the foundation of learning and the key toward accessing opportunities in life, and all students deserve the opportunity to benefit from rich and varied reading experiences.1 However, many students require extra guidance from literacy specialists and interventionists. The Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University may enhance the ability of active teachers to deliver reading instruction for K-8 students. By embracing best practices in teaching reading in elementary education, you may be empowered to promote fair access to literacy for diverse student populations. Please note this program does not include the student teaching experience needed for initial licensure. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor who can help you better understand if this program fits your needs.
This master’s degree in reading is offered through the College of Education. It aligns with the standards established by the International Literacy Association. This online master’s in reading combines coursework with observational and practice-based learning experiences.
This reading education degree program is designed to explore best practices in supporting literacy in collaborative settings. You will be taught to apply advanced theories in corrective reading strategies and instructional methods. In addition, you will explore how to encourage the development and maintenance of literacy-rich environments, and the integration of literacy across curricular areas.
Pursue Your Online Master’s in Reading
GCU has embraced the considerable potential of online education for working adults who are looking for a way to further their career qualifications while continuing to meet their current obligations. If you’re interested in earning your master’s degree in reading online, you may find that GCU’s digital learning platform offers both convenience and flexibility while preserving the quality of instruction. As an online student, you’ll be taught by instructors who are knowledgeable in their fields and can take advantage of digital discussions with your peers via the interactive digital platform.2
The curriculum for this master’s degree in reading with an emphasis in elementary education is designed to provide a comprehensive survey of literacy — from reading assessments to instructional methods and beyond.
You can expect to explore subject areas such as:
Practicum Experience Requirements for This Master’s Degree in Reading
This master’s in reading program includes a practicum/field experience component, which is designed to provide reading specialist and literacy coach candidates with hands-on experience. During your practicum/field experience you will:
The master’s in reading program requires all applicants to have access to a K-8 classroom to complete the program assignments. In addition, you must submit a copy of your current teaching license. Alternatively, you may submit documentation proving a minimum of one year of teaching experience. You are required to obtain any necessary licenses, certifications or endorsements from the state in which you plan to teach. Visit the admissions page for more information on GCU’s admission requirements.
A master’s in teaching reading in elementary education may prepare you to pursue a potential career helping young children experience the joys of reading. With advanced competencies in literacy and elementary education, you may be positioned to pursue work in the following settings:3
Many graduates with this academic specialization could work in the classroom as elementary, middle school or secondary school teachers. However, other positions may become available where you may find yourself performing the following duties:4
GCU Offers Institutionally Accredited Teaching Programs
This master's in reading elementary education program has earned full accreditation by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). This accreditation underscores the program's commitment to teacher preparation excellence. It attests to both the high-quality curriculum and the effectiveness in nurturing educators dedicated to continuous growth. In addition, Grand Canyon University has been fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. This recognition showcases GCU’s commitment to maintaining and elevating the standards that make it a trusted choice for aspiring elementary education professionals.
Master’s in Reading: Elementary Education Emphasis FAQs
Explore the following frequently asked questions and answers to get more information about becoming a teacher who specializes in teaching reading to elementary students.
A reading teacher specializes in working with students who are having trouble acquiring reading fluency.5 These teachers must be able to use a variety of assessment tools to identify the source of the problem and then tailor their instructional methods to suit the unique needs of the individual student. As such, flexibility and adaptability are important. Reading teachers can also benefit from:6
There are different paths toward pursuing a teaching profession, and the steps often depend on state licensure requirements. Before getting started, you should research the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which you plan to work. In general, however, you will typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in education that leads to initial teacher licensure. You should then plan on obtaining your teaching license or certification and gain some work experience. Then, enroll in a master’s in reading or literacy program. Some states may require you to obtain certification as a reading specialist.5
You will be taught effective strategies for teaching reading skills as you earn a master's in reading. There is a broad range of instructional methodologies and approaches that a reading specialist may use to teach reading skills.
Before getting started with a new school year or semester, it’s important for reading teachers to assess their individual students’ reading comprehension. Then, they’ll choose appropriate reading materials based on students’ literacy skills and maturity level. It’s a good idea to choose reading materials that the students are more likely to find interesting and engaging. In some cases, it’s helpful to build background knowledge, such as about historical topics discussed in the reading materials.
Professionals who focus on teaching reading may have students practice working in groups as well as on their own. For example, practice-based activities designed to enhance information processing and promote literacy skills are favorable tools used by reading teachers.7
Reading specialists may be referred to by various titles, including Title I reading teachers, reading resource teachers, literacy coaches and coordinators.8 These professionals provide one-on-one or small group diagnostic, prescriptive teaching of reading and work closely with educators to enhance reading and communication skills.8
Start Your Journey Today
If you’re passionate about literacy and about giving children a firm foundation for their future, apply today for enrollment in GCU’s online master’s in reading program.
If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).
- World Literacy Foundation (n.d.). Why Literacy. Retrieved Oct. 9, 2023.
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Sept. 6). Kindergarten And Elementary School Teachers: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 9, 2023.
- Indeed (2022, August 11). 10 Careers For Those With A Master’s Degree In Literacy. Retrieved Oct. 9, 2023.
- Learn.org (n.d.). How To Become A Reading Teacher In 5 Steps. Retrieved on Oct. 13, 2023.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Sept. 6). Kindergarten And Elementary School Teachers: How To Become A Kindergarten Or Elementary School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Dec. 6, 2023.
- Levy, S. (n.d.). How To Teach Reading Skills. Busy Teacher. Retrieved Oct. 9, 2023.
- Law Insider (n.d.). Reading Specialist Definition. Retrieved on Oct. 13, 2023.