Program Overview
The School of Education at UMass Lowell offers a master's degree (M.Ed. or Ed.S.) in Reading and Language that provides experienced teachers with opportunities to advance their knowledge and practice in literacy education.
There are two degree options within the Reading and Language program. These include the Licensure Option (M.Ed. or Ed.S.) as a Reading Specialist and Non-Licensure Option (M.Ed. or Ed.S).
The licensure program is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Education for licensure as a Reading Specialist. The program is for Massachusetts teachers only and the degrees culminate in a two-semester practicum leading to reading licensure.
The non-licensure program is for both Massachusetts and out-of-state teachers who pursue a master's degree to deepen their education in literacy education. The non-licensure program cannot be endorsed for licensure in any state including Massachusetts.
All candidates for both licensure and non-licensure options must have an initial or professional teaching license in Elementary Education, Teaching Students with Moderate Disabilities, Early Childhood Education, or English as a Second Language; one year of teaching experience as a classroom teacher; and currently working in a school system in order to complete field experiences in all courses.