Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

The non-licensure Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Reading and Literacy Leadership program is designed for educators who want to enhance their literacy instruction skills and discover ways of developing effective literacy programs, systems, and curricula for students of all ages. In this post-master's program, you will have opportunities to examine current instructional methods and to create and implement reading activities that are conducive to student learning. Among other topics, you'll study literacy professional standards as well as the effects of social media and technology on literacy programs. The program also aims to help educators build leadership, critical-thinking, writing, and research skills.

What Are the Prerequisites?

You will need to have obtained a master's degree to pursue the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Reading and Literacy Leadership. You should also have a background in teaching.

What Are the Course Requirements?

To earn this degree from Walden University, you must complete a total of 36 semester credit hours. Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change. Contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program.

Core Course Requirements

• Foundations in Reading and Literacy Leadership
• Literacy Leadership for Today's Schools
• Applied Research in Education
• Learners and the Changing Literacy Landscape
• Assessment and Data Analysis to Support Systemic Literacy Programs
• Capstone: Program Development and Professional Development

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Once you have acquired the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Reading and Literacy Leadership, you may elect to pursue job titles such as:

• Adult basic and secondary education and literacy teacher
• Remedial reading teacher
• Title I reading teacher
• Reading development instructor

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

Advanced Degrees

If you'd like to instruct at colleges or universities or conduct further research on literacy, a doctoral degree is recommended. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

• Doctor of Education with a specialization in Reading and Literacy Leadership
• Doctor of Philosophy in Reading
• Doctorate (Ed.D.) of Literacy (Reading and Writing)

Find information on costs, occupation types, completion rates, and median loan debt for this program at http://waldendisclosures.com.

Walden offers both state-approved educator licensure programs as well as programs and courses that do not lead to licensure or endorsements. Prospective students must review their state licensure requirements prior to enrolling. For more information, please refer to www.WaldenU.edu/educlicensure.

Prospective Alabama students: Contact the Teacher Education and Certification Division of the Alabama State Department of Education at 1-334-242-9935 or www.alsde.edu to verify that these programs qualify for teacher certification, endorsement, and/or salary benefits.

Prospective Washington state students are advised to contact the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at 1-360-725-6320 or prof.educ@k12.wa.us to determine whether Walden's programs in the field of education are approved for teacher certification or endorsements in Washington state. Additionally, teachers are advised to contact their individual school district as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.