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).
 | 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. |
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)
Degree Requirements & Curriculum
Program Structure
30 credit hours | 10 coursesSummer 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)
"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