Willamette University

Graduate School of Education

Reading Endorsement Program

The Graduate School of Education Reading Endorsement Program is designed for those interested in providing reading program leadership within their building or district. This program leads to an endorsement that uses a wide range of instructional practices, approaches and methods; including technology-based practices for learners at different developmental levels and from differing cultural and linguistic backgrounds. It is based on scientific research of successful practices to prepare and train high-quality teachers.  All reading courses align with International Reading Association (IRA), TSPC and NCATE guidelines.

The Reading endorsement program is now offered online, with the exception of the 90-hour required practicum.

Candidates enrolled in the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or Master of Education (M.Ed.) program may elect a reading endorsement as their area of specialization in that program.  Students will receive information about endorsement options during the admission process.

Program Highlights

  • Online courses guarantee flexibility
  • Typical completion in 1 year
  • Start in summer, fall or spring
  • 90-hour hands-on practicum
  • $525/credit

Program Completion

  • 8 courses required (minimum of 14 credits)
  • Passing of Praxis II Reading Specialist exam
  • 90-hour practicum in school with Reading endorsed professional
    • At least three months BEFORE the anticipated start of the endorsement practicum, candidates must download, complete and submit this form.  Once the form has been received, a practicum placement will be secured, at which time the candidate will be enrolled in practicum hours (2 credits).

Course Requirements

  • Students must take all required courses (14 credits) to complete the endorsement program.
  • The required practicum (ED 570) is offered each semester.  You must complete the practicum during your final semester of the endorsement program.
  • Click here to see the course rotation.

REQUIRED COURSES
Course Number and Title Credits
ED 517B - Culturally Responsive Instruction and Literacy Learning 2
ED 520A - Foundations of Literacy and Language Acquisition 2
ED 522 - Literacy Methods Across teh Curriculum 2
ED 523 - Literacy Assessment, Diagnosis & Instruction PK-12*
 2
ED 525 - Leadership & Innovation in School Literacy Programs* 2
ED 528A - Teaching Writing K-12* 1
EDUC 568 - Children and Young Adult Literature 1
ED 570 - Reading Practicum* 2
*Indicated courses that WU MAT current students and graduates (2008-present) will need to complete for this endorsement.  All other inservice teachers will need to complete all courses listed.