Licensure Only, Specialist Teacher of Reading

The licensure-only reading program is designed for educators seeking an initial license as a specialist teacher of reading but not a degree.

Students will develop an understanding of reading and writing processes, enhance classroom reading instruction, assess reading difficulties and intervene in instruction, use literature in reading and language arts programs, and carry out teacher leadership roles in reading.

Program Features 

• Online Modality: Courses are offered fully online in the evening, designed to meet the needs of our professional students. 

• Individually Designed: Candidates who enter the program having met some of the specific course competencies may be eligible for a reduction in the overall credits required. The requirements are determined in consultation with the program advisors and are based on an applicant’s prior experience in literacy.  

• Flexible pacing and field options: The completion time of this program varies depending on the individual requirements. Most, if not all, of the field requirements, including the practicum, can be completed in participants' classrooms and school—or community-based settings.

• Collaboration: Collaborate with faculty who are expert reading practitioners and classmates who teach in various roles (e.g., general, special, bilingual classrooms) and specialist positions (e.g., coaches and interventionists).

• Culturally and linguistically sustaining practices: Our reading candidates are trained to create equitable and inclusive learning environments. They learn how to design and implement culturally and linguistically sustaining practices, respond to the needs of all students, and increase equitable access to high-quality educational experiences for all students. Our dedicated faculty is committed to promoting social justice, anti-bias education, and equitable access to learning for all students. 

• Graduate assistantships: Opportunities to apply for graduate assistantships, grants and scholarships. 

Licensure 

Students interested in this program must complete one year of teaching under an initial teaching license in a content area before earning their reading specialist license. Salem State may endorse graduates for state licensure as reading teachers.

The program meets all the regulations required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for the initial licensure as a specialist teacher of reading, which are as follows*: 

• Teachers seeking the Initial Specialist Teacher of Reading License must have at least an Initial Teaching License and at least one year of experience under that license. 

• Students must supply verification of at least one year of teaching experience in the role and grade level of their initial license upon completion of the program. 

• A passing score on the MTEL Specialist Teacher of Reading license is required for the practicum. 

_{*Please be aware that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts may change licensure requirements. Students are advised to contact the state for specific, current licensure requirements. Students may access that information at the Department for Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).}

Curriculum 

All candidates for the licensure-only program must complete 21-30 credits, meeting the regulations for initial licensure as a Specialist Teacher of Reading. After reviewing the student's prior coursework, the program coordinator will determine the specific courses required. Decisions are made based on competencies required for state licensure.

Sample Courses

• EDU 814 - Disciplinary Literacy in the Content Areas 

• EDU 745A - Supporting Language and Literacy Learning for Multilinguals 

• EDU 817C - Literacy Assessment and Intervention Strategies 

• EDU 845 - Literacy Leadership, Collaboration and Coaching 

Please note that a minimum of 75 pre-practicum hours must be completed during this program in addition to the 150-hour practicum.