Northern Arizona University is excited to announce a streamlined path to certification with our newly established Reading Specialist K–8 graduate certificate. This program equips educators with the advanced tools and knowledge necessary to diagnose and remediate reading difficulties in K–8 classrooms, implement school and district-wide reading programs, and earn the Arizona Department of Education’s Reading Specialist Endorsement. Whether pursued concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate, this 24-credit program offers a comprehensive and flexible path for professional development.
Why choose NAU’s Reading Specialist K–8 graduate certificate?
- In-depth expertise:Designed by leaders in literacy education, our program offers courses that focus on cutting-edge research, current trends, and effective methodologies in reading instruction. You’ll gain practical skills that align with the demands of today’s educational landscape.
- Practical application:The program goes beyond theory, emphasizing hands-on learning experiences. In courses like ECI-530: The Role of Phonics in Reading Instruction and ECI-541: Collective and Remedial Reading, you will master methods for teaching and assessing phonemic awareness and phonic knowledge, crucial for addressing basic skill deficiencies. ECI-551: Clinical Practice in Reading Practicum K–8 allows you to work directly with students, applying your diagnostic and remediation skills in classroom settings.
- Capstone research:Culminate your learning with ECI-687: Supervised Applied Reading Research Project, where you will design and conduct an applied research project showcasing your expertise in addressing reading challenges.
Take the next step in your literacy education career
Our Reading Specialist K–8 graduate certificate is more than just an academic achievement—it’s a stepping stone to leadership in literacy education. With rigorous coursework and hands-on practice, you’ll be prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities in the field.
Ready to elevate your career?
Contact Assistant Professor Tina Chaseley, Department of Teaching and Learning, for more information on how you can join our next cohort and begin your journey toward professional growth and success.