The M.A. in Reading Education (K-12) program is designed to prepare special reading teachers, clinicians, supervisors, directors and coordinators of reading for school systems. Professional certification in a teaching area (or graduation from a state-approved certification degree program in education) is required for admission. Students who hold certification other than elementary education may need to take additional courses in education and/or reading (prerequisites). Students who do not hold any teaching certification should consider the MAT in Elementary Education.

Program Goals:
1. Build skill, knowledge and a deep understanding of literacy processes
2. Understand how children's literacy grows
3. How to teach reading effectively

The Cohort
This program is designed as a cohort program which allows students to take courses together in a planned sequence. Cohorts facilitate optimum learning and timely completion of the program. Such structure also allows students to form a strong network with fellow students.

Students are encouraged to begin the program in the fall, but summer and spring admission may be approved. Prerequisite courses must be completed prior to joining the cohort.

Program Completion
The program may be completed over six semesters by taking two courses per semester.  Courses are arranged in Blocks with transition point projects that are completed before proceeding to the next Block.

Courses are scheduled in the late afternoons, evening, or Saturday mornings during the school year and are held on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus.