July 2023 University Catalog

MS in Education, Reading and Literacy

School of Public Service and Education

The master’s specialization in Reading and Literacy provides reading classroom teachers the opportunity to gain research-based knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for effective K-12 classroom reading and literacy instruction. Learners study theory, practice and assessment, reflection, and collaboration, and complete on-site clinical experiences and classroom observations in K-12 educational settings. The competencies taught in the coursework and practicum and internship experiences reflect state and national standards. The Reading and Literacy specialization is state-approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board using the Standards of Effective Practice and the Teachers of Reading standards.

Practicum/Internship Requirement(s)

Minimum of 80 practicum hours. See the Practicum/Internship Experience section below for more information.

Additional Program Requirements

Core courses

ED5010Foundations of Master's Studies in Education

4

ED5006Survey of Research Methodology

4

ED5500Standards-Based Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment

4

ED5501Assessment and Improvement of Instruction

4

ED5503Classroom Management Strategies

4

ED5504Strategies for Eliminating the Achievement Gap

4

Specialization courses

ED5551Developing Fluent Readers

3

ED5552Teaching Comprehension Strategies

3

ED5553Assessment-Based Reading Instruction

3

ED5554Sociocultural Context of Reading Instruction

3

ED5555Foundational Theories in Reading Instruction

3

ED5559Reading and Literacy Practicum

6

Total

At least 45 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Practicum/Internship Experience

Learners enrolled in the MS in Education, Reading and Literacy degree program must complete 80 hours of supervised practicum experience as a requirement of their program. The practicum course (ED5559) serves as the culmination of their program. Learners apply the skills developed through the course of the program at approved sites and develop a final portfolio that demonstrates proficiency in reading and literacy. Practicum and/or Internship hours are considered complete once all program required practicum/internships hours have been successfully achieved. Partial completion of practicum/internship requirements/hours can't be verified for licensure or transfer of hours.

Learners in the MS in Education, Reading and Literacy specialization are required to complete ED5010 with a grade of “B" or higher as a condition of continued enrollment in the program.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s websiteContact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Learners seeking Minnesota Teacher(s) of Reading endorsement upon completion of the MS in Education specialization in Reading and Literacy must document having completed a minimum of 25 percent of their practicum and internship experiences at the elementary level (grades 1-6), the middle level (grades 5-8), and secondary level (grades 9-12). Access to active educational settings is required for all reading and literacy coursework.

Learners are required to pass the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) to successfully complete their program. Learners must identify Capella University as a recipient to ensure the score report is sent to the university. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Arkansas and Kentucky residents are not eligible to enroll in this specialization.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)