Program Details

Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education Advanced Program for Continuing Professional Education

Offered By: College of Education

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Total Program Credits & Course Length:

Total Program Credits: 32

Online: 6 weeks [ More Info ]

Transfer Credits:

Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the program

Program Tuition Rate:

Online: $530 per credit. [ More Info ]

As part of our commitment to keeping tuition rates competitive, GCU has kept campus tuition costs frozen since 2009. While the cost per credits are listed below, the average campus student pays only $8,600 per year* in tuition after institutional scholarships and grants. Speak with your university counselor for more information about estimating the costs of attending GCU.

Tuition	Credits	2018-19
Traditional Undergraduate	1-11	$687.50 per credit
Traditional Undergraduate	12-18 (block tuition)	$8,250 per semester
Traditional Undergraduate	19+ (semester rate +)	$8,250 + $687.50 per credit above 18 credits
Summer Traditional Undergraduate (Except pre-licensure nursing cohorts)*		$310 per credit

*Tuition rates for all courses beginning July 1, 2018

*No in-state/out-of-state rates

*Traditional campus undergraduate students taking courses in the online format will be charged the regular tuition rates.

*Traditional campus undergraduate students are required to take a minimum of nine (9) credits in the traditional campus format.

It is the policy of GCU to collect and remit sales, use, excise and/or gross receipts taxes in compliance with state and local taxing jurisdiction regulations, which require the university to remit tax where applicable. Regulations vary by student location. Payment of tax is ultimately the student's financial responsibility to the university regardless of financing arrangements. Per Hawaii requirements: It is hereby stated that students residing in the State of Hawaii will be charged Hawaii General Excise Tax on all transactions. Students living in the District of Oahu will be charged 4.712 percent. Students residing in other Hawaii districts will be charged 4.1666 percent.

*Fees subject to change.

GCU's non-traditional tuition rates are for students who are interested in pursuing an online degree program or taking evening classes. Speak with your university counselor to learn more about your opportunities for scholarships off tuition through GCU's educational alliances or to find out about options for continuing education for teachers.

Undergraduate Tuition	2018-19
Education Programs	$440 per credit
Theology Programs	$395 per credit
Applied Business Analytics / Applied Business Information Systems/ Business Information Systems/ Computer Programming / Information Technology Programs	$449 per credit
Business Administration with an Emphasis in Business Intelligence	$470 per credit
Online and Professional Studies (all programs other than those listed above)	$470 per credit
Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$250 per credit

Graduate Tuition	2018-19
Education Programs	$530 per credit
Master of Divinity	$340 per credit
IT Programs	$505 per credit
Business Programs (Excludes Business Analytics / Information Systems and Technology Management)	$575 per credit
Nursing Programs	$500 per credit
Advanced Practice Nursing Programs	$670 per credit
Business Analytics / Information Systems and Technology Management Programs	$505 per credit
Online and Professional Studies (all programs other than those listed above)	$515 per credit
Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$400 per credit
Doctoral Programs (includes DIS-966 through DIS-970)	$650 per credit
Doctoral Programs – Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$617.50 per credit

Continuing Education (CTE) Tuition	2018-19
Online	$150 per credit

*Fees subject to change.

2018-19

Residence Hall Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $1,350 meal plan.
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
Cypress	Double Occupancy	$4,400 per academic year
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year

Apartment Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $750 meal plan.
North Rim	Double Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
North Rim	Single Occupancy	$6,000 per academic year
Papago Studio (two bedrooms, one bathroom, no kitchen or living room)	Single Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
Papago / Agave / Roadrunner / Diamondback / Encanto (four bedrooms, two bathrooms, with kitchen and living room)	Single Occupancy	$6,100 per academic year

Summer Room Rates
Active student (actively enrolled in at least one course)		$1,200
Working student (on-campus job, but not taking courses)		$1,600

All residents (including all on-campus and remote housing residents) commit to housing reservations as an academic year-long lease (both fall and spring semesters) and are charged for housing by the academic year (both fall and spring semesters).
All housing charges, including room and board, are billed to the student's account.
For payment methods and deadlines contact your university counselor or student services counselor.
All rates include parking (summer only), rent, water, electricity, basic cable and Internet. Rates above DO NOT include tax.

Meal Plans Meal plans for 2017-18 are Dining Dollars only and do not include meal swipes.
Plans	Details	Price
Canyon $750 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to apartment residents or commuter students.	$1,500 per academic year
Canyon $1,350 Dining Dollars	Minimum requirement for residence hall residents.	$2,700 per academic year
Canyon $1,800 Dining Dollars		$3,500 per academic year
Canyon $2,100 Dining Dollars		$4,000 per academic year
Canyon $2,700 Dining Dollars		$5,100 per academic year

*Fees subject to change.

2018-19

Residence Hall Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $1,350 meal plan.
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
Canyon	Double Occupancy	$4,400 per academic year
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year

Apartment Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $750 meal plan.
North Rim	Double Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
North Rim	Single Occupancy	$6,000 per academic year
Papago Studio (two bedrooms, one bathroom, no kitchen or living room)	Single Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
Papago / Agave / Roadrunner / Diamondback / Encanto / Jerome / Cactus (four bedrooms, two bathrooms, with kitchen and living room)	Single Occupancy	$6,100 per academic year

Summer Room Rates
Active student (actively enrolled in at least one course)		$1,200
Working student (on-campus job, but not taking courses)		$1,600

All residents (including all on-campus and remote housing residents) commit to housing reservations as an academic year-long lease (both fall and spring semesters) and are charged for housing by the academic year (both fall and spring semesters).
All housing charges, including room and board, are billed to the student's account.
For payment methods and deadlines contact your university counselor or student services counselor.
All rates include parking (summer only), rent, water, electricity, basic cable and Internet. Rates above DO NOT include tax.

Meal Plans Meal plans for 2018-19 are Dining Dollars only and do not include meal swipes.
Plans	Details	Price
Canyon $250 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to commuter students.	$500 per academic year
Canyon $750 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to apartment residents or commuter students.	$1,500 per academic year
Canyon $1,350 Dining Dollars	Minimum requirement for residence hall residents.	$2,700 per academic year
Canyon $1,800 Dining Dollars		$3,500 per academic year
Canyon $2,100 Dining Dollars		$4,000 per academic year
Canyon $2,700 Dining Dollars		$5,100 per academic year

*Fees subject to change.

Traditional On-Campus Fees

2018-19

Fees indicated are effective for all students enrolling for 2018-19 academic year. Please contact your university counselor with any questions.

Canyon Connect	Undergraduate courses	$95 per class
Registration Deposit	Non-refundable	$50
Student Activity Fee	Traditional undergraduate and graduate campus students (except those in the nursing pre-licensure program)	$275 per semester (excluding summer)
Colter Surface Parking (2018-19)	Green Lot - For campus residents only. Secure parking for student vehicles near or adjacent to campus. Limited spaces are available.	$50
Grove Garage Resident Parking (2018-19)	Red Lot - For Grove residents only. Covered parking for student vehicles near Willow, Acacia, Juniper and Ironwood residence halls.	$150 per academic year
29th Avenue Parking Garage (2018-19)	Black Lot - For campus residents only. Covered parking on the perimeter of campus on floors 2, 3, 4 and 5.	$150 per academic year
Halo Parking Garage (2018-19)	Purple Lot - For commuter students only. Covered parking on the perimeter of campus on floors 2, 3, 4 and 5.	$150 per academic year
Lot D – Formerly Missouri Avenue Surface Parking (2018-19)	Orange Lot - For commuter students only. Secure parking for student vehicles near or adjacent to campus.	$20 per academic year
Housing Application Fee	Traditional undergraduate campus students and non-refundable	$250
Housing Prepayment	Returning residents only and non-refundable	$200
Returned Check Fee	All returned checks	$25
Health Insurance		$2,439 per academic year
Transcript Fee		$5
Graduation Fee		$150
Health Fee		$70 per semester
Health Center Visit Fee		$25
Schedule Change Fee		$25
Late Payment Fee		$25
Global Studies Portfolio Fee		$90
Hospitality Management Premium		$100 per semester
Tennis Management Premium		$250 per semester
Golf Management Premium		$500 per semester
Computer Science, Computer Programming, Engineering and Information Technology Program Premium 2018-19		$800 per semester
Nursing Program Premium 2018-19 (effective summer 2018)	Pre-Licensure program	$1,000 per semester
Worship Arts Premium	Includes minors	$250 per semester
Special Course Fees		Refer to the University Policy Handbook

*Fees subject to change.

Non-Traditional Online and Evening Fees

2018-19

Fees indicated are effective for all students enrolling starting on July 1, 2018, unless otherwise specified.

Canyon Connect	Undergraduate courses	$95
Canyon Connect	Graduate courses	$105
Canyon Connect	Doctoral courses	$115
RN to BSN Program Course Material Fee	5-week courses with an NRS- prefix and HLT-362V	$120 per course
Course Material Fee	NUR-634	Refer to the University Policy Handbook
Learning Management Service Fee	New online and professional studies students	$400
Doctoral Residencies	Including MDiv	$795-$1,195 per Residency
Doctoral Programs	Dissertation continuation - optional zero-credit course	$500
Accordance Bible Software	New MDiv students only	$285
Credential Evaluation (International)	Basic evaluation	$175
Credential Evaluation (International)	Course-by-course evaluation	$250
Returned Check Fee	All returned checks	$25
Transcript Fee		$5
Graduation Fee		$150
Special Course Fees		Refer to the University Policy Handbook

*Fees subject to change.

What Is a Master’s in Reading with an Elementary Education Emphasis?

Literacy is the foundation of learning, and all students deserve the opportunity to benefit from rich and varied reading experiences. However, many students require extra guidance from literacy specialists and interventionists. Grand Canyon University’s Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education enhances the ability of active teachers to deliver high-quality reading instruction for K-8 students. By learning best practices in teaching reading education, candidates promote fair access to literacy for diverse student populations.

This master’s in reading education is offered through the College of Education. It aligns with the standards established by the International Literacy Association. The MA combines coursework with observational and practice-based learning experiences.

Benefits of a Curriculum-Based Reading MA Degree for Elementary Education

The Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education enables candidates to explore best practices in supporting literacy in collaborative settings. This degree uniquely qualifies candidates to apply advanced theories in corrective reading strategies and instructional methods. Students will learn how to encourage the development and maintenance of literacy-rich environments and the integration of literacy across curricular areas.

Some of the topic areas you will study may include:

Methods of engaging learners of diverse backgrounds and skill levels
Planning, developing and evaluating reading curricula
Leadership models for the promotion of literacy
Evidence-based best practices in reading and writing processes
Brain-based learning with neuroscience
Effective communication strategies for young students
Advanced assessment systems and data interpretation at the school and district levels
The role of advocacy in literacy leadership

Reading specialist and literacy coach candidates will also complete the Elementary Practicum in Reading. This practicum requires candidates to successfully complete the following:

Conduct research and analysis for a Literacy Work Sample (LWS)
Design and implement literacy intervention instruction
Coach other teachers in best practices for student learning improvement

What Can I Do with a Master’s Degree in Reading for Elementary Education?

A Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education can prepare you to pursue a rewarding career helping young children experience the joys of reading. Graduates can apply for work in a variety of settings, which may include the following:

Public, private and charter schools
Elementary and middle schools
Education welfare organizations
Social service agencies
Community organizations
Private companies

Many graduates with this academic specialization do pursue careers in the classroom as elementary teachers. However, other positions may become available. These may include:

Private tutor
Literacy support provider
Curriculum specialist
School literacy coach
Textbook writer or consultant
District level consultant

The master’s in elementary reading education requires all applicants to have access to a K-8 classroom in order to successfully complete the program assignments. In addition, all applicants must submit a copy of their current teaching license. Alternatively, applicants may submit documentation proving a minimum of one year of teaching experience. An enrollment representative is available to answer questions from applicants whose states require a K-12 credential. Graduates are required to obtain any necessary licenses, certifications or endorsements from the state in which they plan to teach.

Program Domains

Course List

The programs offered at Grand Canyon University may vary by content and course length. You are currently viewing the program version available in Arizona. For information about specific course content, credit length and VA approval in your state, please contact a counselor at 1-855-GCU-LOPE or click here to request more information.

Major:

32 credits

Total Degree Requirements:

32 credits

Program Core Courses

UNV-501: Introduction to Graduate Studies in the College of Education Total Credits: 2 credits

Course Description

This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the College of Education. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success.

TCH-539: Introduction to Educational Research Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

This course provides teachers with an introduction to applied research in education across the major quantitative, qualitative, and action research traditions. Coursework focuses on understanding the research process and its integrated components and evaluating published research reports from the perspective of a critical consumer. Teachers explore scientific reasoning and research design.

TCH-520: Brain-Based Learning Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

This course focuses on brain research (from neuroscience to the behavioral and cognitive sciences) that relates to teaching and learning and suggests ways that brain research can be translated into what teachers do in schools and classrooms. Teacher candidates will examine the inner workings of the brain and the effect on student learning, memory, and transfer. Specifically, the course explores the body of knowledge that represents the application of brain research to classroom practice, and how knowledge about the human brain can affect the curricular, instructional, and assessment decisions that teachers make every day. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

REA-500: Foundations in Language and Literacy Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/Literacy coach candidates survey the theoretical and evidence-based foundations of reading and writing processes and instruction. This survey includes an exploration of historical through current reading and writing development, processes, and components. Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates are introduced to ethical and professional roles. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

REA-510: Survey of Reading Assessments Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates survey a variety of assessment tools and related practices. This survey prepares the reading specialist/literacy coach to plan and evaluate effective reading and writing instruction that optimizes student learning. In addition, the reading specialist/literacy coach candidates develop effective communication techniques. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-500.

REA-515: Advanced Studies in Reading Assessment Systems Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates engage in advanced studies of assessment systems to develop, select and interpret data at the building and district level. This advanced study of assessment information is used to plan and evaluate curriculum and instruction at the building and district level. In addition, the reading specialist/literacy coach candidates communicate assessment results to a variety of audiences. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-510.

REA-550: Literate Environments Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates create a literate environment that fosters reading and writing by integrating foundational knowledge, instructional practices, approaches and methods, curriculum materials, and the appropriate use of assessments. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-515.

REA-560: Professional Learning and Leadership in Literacy Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates survey professional learning and leadership models for promoting literacy. emphasizing positive dispositions, individual and collaborative learning, the ability to design and evaluate professional learning experiences, the importance of advocacy, and a need for knowledge about adult learning and school leadership. From this survey, reading specialist/literacy coach candidates demonstrate and facilitate professional learning and leadership as a career-long effort and responsibility. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-550.

REA-520: Introductory Instructional Methods for Elementary Reading and Writing Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates survey instructional approaches and materials that support student learning in reading and writing. This survey prepares the reading specialist/literacy coach candidates to design an integrated, comprehensive, and balanced curriculum. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.

REA-540: Advanced Studies in Methods for Elementary Content Reading and Writing Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

Reading specialist/literacy coach candidates engage in advanced studies of instructional approaches and materials at the building and district level that support student learning in reading and writing across content areas. From this advanced study, the reading specialist/literacy coach candidates design an integrated, comprehensive, and balanced curriculum. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-520.

REA-570: Elementary Practicum in Reading Total Credits: 3 credits

Course Description

The practicum experience requires reading specialist/literacy coach candidates to implement literacy intervention instruction that is designed to meet the specific needs of students and engage in research and analysis to support compilation and creation of a Literacy Work Sample (LWS). In addition, the candidates coach and provide support to other teachers to think reflectively about improving student learning and implementing various instructional practices. Practicum/field experience hours: 75. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: REA-540.

Program Locations

Online

Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere. GCU offers the most experienced leadership in delivering online degree programs. Full-time faculty members and fully trained adjunct instructors, equipped with strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in their fields, support you every step of the way. Designed with the career-oriented professional in mind, our online classes provide an intimate environment that stimulates engaging and challenging discussions. Choose from programs across our distinct colleges, in high-demand employment areas. Classes begin frequently.

Evening

Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom. Night classes are designed for a specific number of students, providing a warm and nurturing environment that supports an engaging experience. In an evening cohort, you will progress through your degree program with the same career-minded classmates, providing an opportunity to network and forge relationships that go beyond the classroom. Classes begin frequently at various locations, including our main campus.

* Please note that this list may contain programs that are not presently offered as program availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability of the program.

* The Department of Education defines how an institution must calculate a program's On-Time Completion rate for federal disclosure purposes. The On-Time Completion rate is based on a program's published required number of months to complete all degree requirements as provided in the institution's catalog. Completion statistics are updated every January and are based on the cohort of students who started the program in the same year and then graduated within the published program length.

Online and Evening program disclosures (17 months)

Foundational Knowledge
- Candidates examine and incorporate major theories and empirical research that describe the cognitive, linguistic, motivational, and sociocultural foundations of reading and writing development, processes, and components, including word recognition, language comprehension, strategic knowledge, and reading–writing connections.
- Candidates interpret and summarize the historically shared knowledge of the profession and changes over time in the perceptions of reading and writing development, processes, and components.
- Candidates apply professional judgment and practical knowledge for improving all students’ reading development and achievement.
Curriculum and Instruction
- Candidates use foundational knowledge and research-based pedagogical and instructional practices to design and implement an integrated, comprehensive, and balanced curriculum.
- Candidates use appropriate and varied instructional approaches, including those that develop word recognition, language comprehension, strategic knowledge, and reading–writing connections.
- Candidates evaluate and select a wide range of texts (e.g., narrative, expository, and poetry) from traditional print, digital, and online resources based on purpose, settings, and learner needs.
Assessment and Evaluation
- Candidates interpret and use different types of assessments based on their purposes, strengths, and limitations.
- Candidates select, develop, administer, and interpret assessments, both traditional print and electronic, for specific purposes.
- Candidates use assessment information to plan and evaluate instruction.
- Candidates communicate assessment results and implications to a variety of audiences.
Learner Development and Diversity
- Candidates create learning environments that encourage all participants to recognize, understand, and value the forms of diversity that exist in society and their importance in learning to read and write.
- Candidates use a literacy curriculum and engage in instructional practices that positively impact students’ knowledge, beliefs, and engagement with the features of diversity.
- Candidates develop and implement strategies to advocate for equity.
- Candidates create developmentally appropriate instruction that takes into account individual learners' strengths, interests and needs, and that enables each learner to advance and accelerate his or her learning.
Literate Environment
- Candidates design the physical environment to optimize students’ use of traditional print, digital, and online resources in reading and writing instruction.
- Candidates design a social environment that is low risk and includes choice, motivation, and scaffolded support to optimize students’ opportunities for learning to read and write.
- Candidates use routines to support reading and writing instruction (e.g., time allocation, transitions from one activity to another, discussions, and peer feedback).
- Candidates utilize a variety of classroom configurations (i.e., whole class, small group, and individual) to differentiate instruction.
Professional Learning and Leadership
- Candidates develop and facilitate professional learning using foundational knowledge of adult learning theories and related research about organizational change, professional development, and school culture.
- Candidates display positive dispositions related to their own reading and writing and the teaching of reading and writing, and pursue the development of individual professional knowledge and behaviors.
- Candidates participate in, design, facilitate, lead, and evaluate effective and differentiated professional development programs.
- Candidates research and take actions to influence local, state, or national policy decisions.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.

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Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education Advanced Program for Continuing Professional Education

Traditional On-Campus Tuition

Non-Traditional Tuition (Online and Evening Students)

Housing and Meal Costs

2018-19

2018-19

Other Fees

Traditional On-Campus Fees

2018-19

Non-Traditional Online and Evening Fees

2018-19

What Is a Master’s in Reading with an Elementary Education Emphasis?

Benefits of a Curriculum-Based Reading MA Degree for Elementary Education

What Can I Do with a Master’s Degree in Reading for Elementary Education?

Course List

Program Core Courses

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Program Locations

Online

Evening

Program Domains