M.S. in Kinesiology - Sport Administration concentration
The M.S. in Kinesiology with a Sport Administration concentration at Montclair State Un...
M.A. in Reading
Montclair, New Jersey
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The M.A. in Reading is a 33-credit program, with options for traditional study or an accelerated hybrid format that allows completion in as little as 15 months. The curriculum is flexible, with courses offered in face-to-face, hybrid, and fully online modalities, catering to the needs of working professionals. A key outcome of the program is that graduates with an initial teaching certificate and two years of full-time teaching experience are eligible for Reading Specialist certification in New Jersey upon graduation, without additional coursework. The program focuses on providing developmentally appropriate literacy instruction for diverse learners, including English language learners, students with disabilities, and those struggling with literacy, while also addressing the impact of digital technologies on reading and writing.
AACSB-Accredited: No, the M.A. in Reading program at Montclair State University is not AACSB-accredited. AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation is exclusively for business programs and business schools. The M.A. in Reading program is housed within the College of Education and Engaged Learning, and its relevant accreditation is from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which is the recognized accrediting body for teacher preparation programs.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.A. in Reading provides a comprehensive foundation in literacy education. While specific course titles may vary, the program delves into essential topics such as literacy theory, reading comprehension strategies, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, aligning with the five essential components of reading instruction. It also covers the integration of technology in literacy instruction, assessment processes, and differentiated instructional planning for diverse learners. Students gain expertise in identifying and responding to social and cultural developments that influence how students read and write, including the growing use of digital literacies. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, bridging the gap between theory and practice through interactive learning experiences and workshops.
Research Focus: The research focus within the M.A. in Reading program is applied, aiming to equip educators with the ability to use current theory and research to inform their practice. Students are encouraged to immerse themselves in various literacy research initiatives and have opportunities to engage in research projects alongside faculty. The program includes components that enhance candidates' understanding of what it means to be an effective literacy educator, often involving critical reflection on professional practice and the analysis of research findings. The emphasis is on preparing graduates to effectively assess reading difficulties and develop ameliorative strategies, as well as to critically analyze pedagogical approaches.
Industry Engagement: Montclair State University's M.A. in Reading program demonstrates strong industry engagement by directly preparing graduates for specific and in-demand roles within the education sector, particularly as literacy specialists. The program's alignment with New Jersey's Reading Specialist certification requirements highlights its direct connection to state educational needs and professional standards. Graduates are prepared to work with students at the classroom level and with colleagues at the school level to enhance literacy instruction broadly. The program's partnerships with local schools and educational organizations likely facilitate valuable internship and practical application opportunities, enabling students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Reading program inherently incorporates a global perspective through its emphasis on preparing educators to provide "developmentally appropriate literacy instruction for a diverse population of K-12 learners," which explicitly includes English language learners. Understanding the intricacies of language acquisition and literacy development across different linguistic and cultural backgrounds naturally fosters a global outlook. The program also encourages graduates to identify and respond to social and cultural developments that are changing literacy practices worldwide, including the global impact of digital technologies. While not necessarily featuring dedicated courses on international literacy policies, the curriculum's focus on inclusivity and responsiveness to diverse student needs prepares educators for an increasingly interconnected and multicultural educational landscape.
Location
Montclair, New Jersey
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19916
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Montclair State University offers a range of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Presidential Scholarships: The university’s prestigious Presidential Scholarships are awarded to top-performing international students demonstrating exceptional academic records and leadership skills. These scholarships provide substantial financial support and are highly competitive.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate international students have access to departmental scholarships and graduate assistantships. Assistantships may include tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities, offering both financial aid and valuable professional experience.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Reading from Montclair State University is a specialized graduate program designed for educators who are passionate about advancing literacy skills in K-12 students. This program, offered through the Department of Teaching and Learning, equips graduates with advanced knowledge of reading theory, research-based instructional strategies, and assessment techniques to become effective literacy leaders and specialists. It's particularly appealing for current teachers aiming to obtain Reading Specialist certification.
Reading Specialist: This is the most common and direct career path. Reading specialists work directly with students (individually or in small groups) who are struggling with reading, providing targeted intervention and support across various grade levels (K-12). They often conduct diagnostic assessments and develop individualized learning plans.
Literacy Coach: Working with teachers to improve their instructional strategies in reading and writing. Literacy coaches provide professional development, model effective teaching techniques, and collaborate with educators to enhance literacy instruction across the school or district.
Reading Interventionist: Similar to a reading specialist, an interventionist focuses specifically on students who are significantly below grade level in reading. They implement intensive, evidence-based interventions to help close achievement gaps and ensure students develop foundational reading skills.
Curriculum Developer (Literacy): Designing and developing reading and literacy curricula, instructional materials, and assessment tools for school districts, educational publishers, or private education companies. This role involves researching best practices and ensuring alignment with educational standards.
Educational Consultant (Literacy): Providing expert advice to schools, districts, or educational organizations on how to improve their reading and literacy programs. Consultants may assess current practices, recommend new strategies, and assist with program implementation.
Instructional Coordinator/Specialist: Working at a school or district level to develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs, with a strong focus on literacy. This can involve training teachers, selecting instructional materials, and ensuring program effectiveness.
Adult Literacy Instructor/Coordinator: Teaching reading and writing to adult learners, often in community colleges, non-profit organizations, or correctional facilities. This addresses the needs of adults seeking to improve literacy for employment, further education, or daily life.
Educational Writer/Author: Creating content focused on reading and literacy, which could include textbooks, educational articles, children's books, or online learning materials for various educational publishers or organizations.
Higher Education Instructor (Community College): Teaching foundational reading and literacy courses at the community college level, particularly for students who need to strengthen their academic reading and writing skills.
Reading and Writing Center Coordinator: Managing and overseeing the operations of a university or school reading and writing center, which provides tutoring and support services to students. This role involves staff supervision, program development, and resource management.
