Frequently Asked Questions

Masters of Reading

  • What is the difference between the Masters in Reading and the Reading Specialist endorsement?
    All candidates who graduate from our program receive a Masters in Education in Reading. Most, but not all candidates, also seek the Reading Specialist endorsement. The primary difference is that those who seek the Reading Specialist endorsement are required to complete a specific set of courses during their 36 hour program of study. Individuals who seek the Masters in Reading without the Reading Specialist endorsement have the opportunity to choose the thesis option or the course work option, and to choose electives in their program of study. 
  • If I don't have 2 years of teaching experience, can I seek the Reading Specialist endorsement?

    If you do not have two years of teaching experience you can take the coursework that leads to the Reading Specialist endorsement, but the state will not award a Reading Specialist endorsement without: 

    1. Successful completion of state approved coursework
    2. Successful completion of the Reading Specialist Praxis
    3. Documented three years of teaching experience

    There are individuals who begin the program without two years of teaching experience. If they complete the program before they have two years of teaching experience, they simply apply for the endorsement once they achieve the two years of experience. However, if the program requirements change between the time they graduate and the time they apply for the endorsement, these individuals would be required to complete the additional course requirements stipulated at the time they apply for the endorsement. 

  • What can I do with a Masters of Education in Reading degree?

    Degree candidates are prepared to assume leadership roles in Reading Education by serving as:

    • Reading Specialists
    • Literacy Coaches
    • Interventionists
    • Clinicians
    • Diagnosticians
    • Reading Tutors
    • Program Coordinators
    • Reading Supervisors
  • What if I am not a TN Resident?

    Anyone who enters the program and successfully completes the coursework graduates with an M.Ed. in Reading. Candidates who see a Reading Specialist endorsement in another state should contact the state's department of education to discuss the requirements in that state. 

  • How long is the program?
    Most of our candidates are working professionals who enroll part-time (6 credits per semester). Individuals who enroll part-time complete the degree in six consecutive semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring, Summer). There are individuals who are full-time (9 hours) and if a full-time candidate takes summer courses, they are able to complete the degree in four consecutive semesters. 
  • Does this program require something similar to student teaching?
    Candidates in the Masters of Reading do not complete a dedicated student teaching experience. However, candidates do complete practicum courses. These courses require candidates to complete 150 hours of various experiences. This is equivalent to 10 hours per week for a 15 week semester. These hours are completed by performing tasks during the school day and after school hours. These experiences are documented through program assessments, many of which require candidates to videotape their experiences (i.e. parent workshops, coaching experiences, etc.). If candidates are not practicing teachers, the program coordinator will work with school systems in your area to place you in a classroom where you may complete the practicum experiences. 
  • If I don't have my teaching license, does this program offer a teaching license?

    The Masters in Reading does not offer initial licensure. There have been individuals who intend to work for non-profit agencies or who intend to work with adult literacy programs who complete this degree. Their intent is not to teach children. Therefore, these individuals who do not plan to teach children do not need an initial license. 

    If you do not hold a bachelor's degree and wish to become a teacher, you should speak with an advisor in the Clemmer College's Office of Student Success: clemmer_success@etsu.edu 

  • Is the program online?
    The program is 100% online. 
  • How much does the program cost?
    Tuition costs differ for various colleges. It is best to consult the ETSU Bursar's page concerning the costs of tuition and fees.
  • Are scholarships available?
    The Clemmer College offers scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students. For information about the criteria for the various scholarships, consult the CCOE link for scholarships. 
  • Are Graduate Assistantships or Tuition Scholar positions available?

    A limited number of graduate assistantships (GA) are available for Fall and Spring terms. Individuals who plan to attend graduate school full-time (9 hours per semester) are eligible for GA positions. GA's receive a tuition waiver, a monthly stipend, and are expected to work for 20 hours per week. 

    Tuition scholarships are available to first semester, full-time students (9 hours) in the Fall and Spring terms. Tuition scholars (TS) provide 8 hours of weekly service and receive a tuition waiver. However, the student is responsible for student fees. 

    If you accept a position as a Tuition Scholar, you have the opportunity to move to a GA position if there is an opening. However, if you accept a GA position, you may not transfer to a TS position. 

    If you are interested in a graduate assistantship or a tuition scholarship, please contact the program coordinator. 

 

 

 

 

 

The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details.