This 39-credit program is designed for the certified teacher who wishes to be certified by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) as a Reading Specialist. (NOTE: The MSDE requires three years of classroom experience to be certified as a reading specialist.) In order to receive the MSDE certification in Reading Specialist, you must first be certified in another area by MSDE. If you are not currently certified in Maryland, you will need to show certification from another state and demonstrate that you will receive certification in Maryland no later than six months after entering the program." It provides candidates with a strong foundation in reading instruction and assessment at the PK-12 levels and the skills and knowledge required to take on leadership roles within their school or school system. Students completing this program satisfy the course requirements for Maryland state certification as a reading specialist.

Candidates should complete each block before proceeding to the next block. Courses within a block may be taken in any order unless otherwise stated. Candidates must take and pass the Praxis II: Reading Specialist exam during Block III.