Master of Arts [M.A] [Reading Instruction] From Aurora University

The Master of Arts in Reading Instruction (MARI) program is designed to prepare classroom teachers to become Reading Specialists. The courses will develop your skills in assessment and tutoring with individual students, writing reports based on assessment and observation, and working collaboratively with other school personnel. The MARI program is intended for practicing certified teachers who seek to prepare themselves for positions and responsibilities as Reading Specialists or Literacy Coaches.?

?In the program, you will engage in activities with your colleagues, K-12 classroom students and other school personnel to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assess and tutor struggling readers. The ISBE-required practicum, arranged by the university, will provide you with hands-on experiences, while the leadership courses embedded in the program will assist you as in assuming school- and district-wide responsibilities as a literacy coach or reading specialist.

The primary goal of the endorsement and master's program is to prepare you to gain the skills necessary to inspire engaged and successful lifelong readers. The full degree and endorsement programs are offered in a cohort format with district and regional office of education partners, where you will learn alongside peers who face similar challenges and who aspire to take on similar roles. Whether working with K-12 students or in a collaborative role with teachers, reading coaches and specialists can impact the lives of many.

The Master of Arts in Reading Instruction program operates a reading lab on campus where area school children receive assessment and tutoring. The clinic is available to students in first grade through high school experiencing reading difficulties.