MSED - Reading Specialist

Master the science of reading. Transform struggling readers. Lead literacy programs.
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Beyond theory—practical expertise
While other programs teach the science of reading research, Newman goes further. You'll learn how to assess, diagnose, and provide explicit, systematic instruction to students with dyslexia using materials developed by our experienced faculty.
Hands-on from day one
In our Theory & Practice course, you'll learn structured literacy techniques and immediately teach them to colleagues—building confidence before you work with students. Throughout the program, you'll follow a school-aged student, documenting their growth in a comprehensive case study.
Flexible for working teachers
Complete your 30-credit degree while teaching full-time. Summer intensive courses (two full weeks in July) provide deep content knowledge, while fall and spring courses offer hybrid options to fit your schedule.
graduate education
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Next Steps
Ready to begin your journey from career professional to elementary educator?
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For more information, contact: School of Education [email protected] or call 316-942-4291 ext. 2144

Program Talking Points:

	Practical Application Focus - Learn theory and immediately apply it. Our two-week summer intensive includes hands-on practice teaching the exact techniques you'll use with struggling readers.
	Dual Certification Path - Graduate prepared for both Kansas Reading Specialist licensure (Praxis) and national dyslexia therapy certification (KPEERI or ALTA).
	Expert Faculty - Expert Faculty: Learn from Certified Academic Language Therapists with 15+ years of dyslexia therapy experience and proven classroom results.

Whether you want to become a reading specialist, dyslexia therapist, or literacy leader, our program prepares you to make a measurable difference for the 1-in-5 students who struggle with reading. We empower educators to assess, identify, and effectively instruct students with dyslexia using evidence-based structured literacy practices.

Our hands-on program and expert faculty allow you to apply what you learn immediately in your classroom. We prepare you for Kansas Reading Specialist licensure and national dyslexia therapy certification (KPEERI/ALTA exams).

Degree Requirements & Curriculum
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Program Structure
30 credit hours | 10 courses
Summer Intensive Courses: Two full-week courses in July focus on theory and practice. In-person attendance encouraged; online options available.
Fall & Spring Courses: Hybrid delivery with accommodations available for educators with dyslexia or other learning differences.
Clinical Experience: Work with a school-aged struggling reader throughout the program, applying techniques and documenting progress in a professional case study.
Admission Requirements

Undergraduate degree in education

Current teaching license

Minimum 3.25 GPA (4.0 scale)

Philosophy of Education writing sample

Two positive references (including one from supervisor)
About Our Graduate Education Faculty
Our faculty and staff have the knowledge and experience to help you prepare for a leadership career in Education. If you need clarification on a class assignment or advice on how to approach your future, you can feel confident that our faculty is available and ready to help.
Career Pathways
In Reading Specialist – Dyslexia Emphasis
Newman University's Reading Specialist program provides you with the knowledge and relevant skills to set you on the path to a fulfilling career.
A degree at Newman University will prepare you for

Reading specialist in PreK-12 schools

Dyslexia therapist in schools or private practice

Literacy coach or intervention coordinator

Reading program director or curriculum specialist

Some who have completed this program have chosen to continue studies in

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Ph.D. in Literacy Education

Advanced dyslexia therapy certifications (CALT, QI)
"Newman is very flexible. They always are very supportive. I don't think I ever, ever felt like lost because they very reachable. My teachers that were online teachers, they were always communicating through emails and were asking us questions and asking if we were okay - touching base with me."
MSED, Samaria Estrella

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Student Quicklinks

Beyond theory—practical expertise

Hands-on from day one

Flexible for working teachers

Next Steps

Degree Requirements & Curriculum

Program Structure

Admission Requirements

About Our Graduate Education Faculty

Career Pathways
In Reading Specialist – Dyslexia Emphasis

A degree at Newman University will prepare you for

Some who have completed this program have chosen to continue studies in