Become a licensed reading teacher or reading specialist
Be an advocate for literacy in schools as a reading teacher or reading specialist. At Concordia, you'll learn to develop strategies and practices to implement and improve reading curricula and programs to help students succeed.
Our online program is grounded in faith and emerging literacy research- focusing on the science of reading paired with compassion and understanding.
Customizable
Tailor your program to accomplish your goals with our three-program pathways
close to home
Fully online courses with local, in-person practicums and internships
Accelerated
Self-paced, 8-week courses allow you to enroll at any time and graduate in as little as 1 year
Find the information you need
Program pathways
Reading Teacher License Only
Add-on to your current WI teacher license with a #1316 reading teacher license. Work directly with K-12 students at their varying reading levels; learn to evaluate and diagnose reading and comprehension skills, and apply instructional practices and intervention strategies to striving readers.
Master's degree + licensure
Combine your #1316 license with your master's degree in literacy for an additional 12 credits. This will not only set you apart in the field, but you'll also have laid a solid foundation for becoming a reading specialist.
Reading specialist
Prepare to lead teachers as an expert in K-12 literacy administration. As a literacy specialist, you can expect to support staff and develop curricula and continuous improvement plans in order to advocate for literacy in schools. Students must complete the master's degree and #1316 licensure to be eligible for this program. Additional internship hours are required.
Requirements
Requirements
Eligible Students:
- Must hold a current and valid teaching license.
- Current educators must have a minimum of two years of PK-12 teaching experience by the completion of your selected literacy pathway.
Program Requirements:
- Complete required practicum.
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 during the program.
- Complete appropriate program coursework, associated experiences, and artifacts to earn the reading teacher/specialist license (#1316 or #5017) through the Wisconsin DPI.
Internship/Practicum Requirements:
- 40-hour practicum for #1316 candidates
- Additional 75-hour practicum for #5017 candidates
- Practicum may be completed in your current district
Completion Time
Complete your selected program path in one to two years
Cost Per Credit
$715Affording your graduate education
Uncommon Scholarships
Concordia offers Uncommon Scholarships to help bring this investment in your future within reach. These scholarships, which range from $150-$500 per three-credit course, are available for:
- Concordia alumni
- Employees of our corporate and academic partners (AAH, Edcor, Bright Horizons, & more)
- Employees of qualifying Christian churches and schools
- Veterans and dependents
Tuition Reimbursement
Your employer/school district may offer tuition reimbursement, minimizing the cost to you. Ask your HR department if you are eligible.
Payment Plans
Concordia's payment plan allows you to break tuition into automatic monthly payments, making budgeting for your new career a reality.
Financial Aid
Qualifying students may be eligible for Federal Aid. When you fill out the FAFSA make sure to select Concordia University Wisconsin.
- CUW FAFSA code: 003842