Reading Education

The Reading Education Program offers graduate level studies leading to a Masters of Education (M.Ed) and a Doctor in Education (Ed.D. and Ph.d.) The masters level Reading Education Program provides graduates with the technical competencies and insight necessary to assess children’s instructional needs in reading and to plan appropriate instruction.  The program also enables its graduates to evaluate all aspects of a school’s reading program and to recommend measures to improve that program. The goal of the program is to produce competent field leaders conversant with curriculum theory, who can then implement this theory effectively through work with administrators, teachers, and pupils. Individuals seeking to add an endorsement as a reading specialist in the Commonwealth of Virginia must also take the Virginia Reading Assessment (VRA) upon completion of this approved program.

Applicants for doctoral studies are most commonly experienced educators. Students participate in seminars, develop their understanding of research, and work in various clinical settings. Program graduates fill leadership and scholarship positions in their areas of specialization.