The Master of Education: Teaching - Reading and Literacy program provides a strong, research-based background in professional teaching practices and promotes the development of teachers who are knowledgeable of the foundations and theoretical basis for literacy education, the developmental characteristics of students as readers and writers, and the instructional practices that best serve them. The coursework reflects standards advocated by The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), and the International Reading Association (IRA).The program includes a total of 36 semester hours and is comprised of 12 online courses with experiential PK-12 fieldwork components, including a capstone course in school-based action research conducted on a school or other approved professional site. The program  is designed for teachers who wish to further their studies by achieving an advanced degree with a focus in working with students to promote reading and literacy development.This West Virginia state-approved program, while allowing for a master's level credential, does not lead to certification in Reading and Literacy.