Alternative Certification Program: Reading Specialist Certification - Online Program
Overview
The online Alternative Certification Program in Reading Specialist is specifically designed for students who have completed a Masters in Reading and Literacy M.Ed. and now wish to become K-12 Reading Specialists in the state of Texas. The Reading Specialist Certification program is an ACP program that provides a path towards earning the State Board of Educator Certification issued Reading Specialist Certification. This 15-hour program consists of three graduate level reading and literacy courses, a fourth course on the role of the Reading Specialist and a fifth course, and a practicum course. The students will be required to complete 160 practicum hours. Students who successfully complete the 15-credit hour program will be approved to take the Reading Specialist TExES exam during their Practicum course.
This program is 100% online.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the certificate program, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below:
- Master's degree in Reading and/ or Literacy or a closely related field.
- Current Teacher Certification in Texas.
- Documentation of 2 years of teaching experience as a certified teacher.
- Personal interview.
- Clear Criminal Background Check.
- Graduate GPA of at least 3.0.
- Official transcripts from each institution attended.
- Signed and returned acceptance letter.
Applicants for admission, students enrolled in this program and candidates for recommendation to the State of Texas for Reading Specialist Certification must be able to demonstrate essential abilities, professionalism, ethical behavior and other characteristics and behaviors adopted as standards for this profession. This will be done through the Fitness to Practice and Exit Policy.
Program Requirements
Required Courses - 15 Hours
Total Credit Hours: 15