Prepare for a fulfilling career as an instructional leader in schools, higher education, and private practice, tackling challenges and rewards of literacy education at all levels.
Offered 100% online, our cognitive studies in literacy doctoral program is grounded in research and theory that supports models of reading instruction and remediation of reading difficulties. We also emphasize issues in special education and language development related to literacy. As a result, you will gain knowledge and understanding that will deepen your connections with your special education colleagues who regularly assess students’ language and reading difficulties.
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The dissertation problem you address will pertain to literacy and contribute to improved practice within the field.
By participating in dissertation research, you will develop problem-solving skills and a connection to the pedagogical world. Your valuable research experience could lead to publications and presentations at local, national, and international conferences.
Recent doctoral dissertations examined brain injury and inferences in reading, visualization as an aid to vocabulary acquisition, and using technology to enhance writing by resistant high school students.
You must complete your doctoral dissertation within four years of doctoral candidacy.
Build your professional reputation and skills while earning your doctoral degree at your own pace. Our flexible, part-time program fits your needs as a busy professional through online courses.
The Center for Education offers certified reading specialists a Pre-K-12 Instructional Coach endorsement certificate through a peer coaching framework in Pre-K–12 classrooms, with the option for students to become an Instructional Coach or choose to specialize in Literacy (Instructional Coaching-Literacy Emphasis Endorsement).
The Instructional Coaching Endorsement is available for reading specialists who desire to further strengthen their professional knowledge and skills in instructional coaching. Widener University’s Instructional Coaching Program will be based on current Pennsylvania Standards Aligned Curriculum and address the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Instructional Coach Endorsement Competencies as well asThe International Literacy Association’s (ILA) Standards for Reading Professionals—Revised 2010.
The 12-credit Instructional Coaching Endorsement Program will consist of a sequence of four graduate courses with a minimum of 45 hours of field experiences. It will be possible for candidates to meet this requirement within one year.
This program is recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).
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Widener's dissertation completion option is for students who have completed—or nearly completed—their doctoral coursework in Reading with only the dissertation remaining.
Our faculty mentors will personally review your transcript to determine any doctoral requirements needed to put you on track for successful completion of the dissertation and success after graduation. For some, this will mean their 12 dissertation credits, which can be completed in as little as 4 semesters, while others will be guided to take additional coursework or research classes.
Admissions Requirements
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We review applications on a rolling basis.
Gain the skills and preparation for a fulfilling career tackling the challenges and rewards of building literacy education at all levels.
Take courses as part of a professional learning community, where your knowledge and work experience are integrated with others. You'll have the fast-track to developing leadership, consultative, and collaborative skills.
Choosing Widener’s doctorate in cognitive studies in reading is an investment in you—your education, your career, and your future. Our cognitive studies in reading doctoral program provides you with a rich mentoring environment. You’ll learn from respected faculty who work closely with you to help you become a strong and effective leader.
At Widener, you have the advantage of a customized approach to earning your degree, tailoring your graduate study to support your particular area of focus and desired career goals. Collaborating with your professors and advisor, you'll develop an individualized academic plan tailored to balance your professional and personal lifestyle with your education goals.
Cognitive Studies majors have the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations in and around campus, including the Alpha Upsilon Alpha and Kappa Delta Pi, and many more.
Our professors' leadership and research are shaping the education field.
"My interests include brain development, literacy development, and applications of technology in research and instruction. My greatest excitement in teaching comes from the way that working with graduate students spills over to my teaching of undergraduates and vice versa."
"My teaching focuses upon cognitive processing and application. In this regard, critical literacy complements the cognitive learning process. Critical literacy is the ability to actively read a text that promotes an understanding of social concepts and human relationships."
With a doctorate in cognitive studies in reading, you'll have the inside track to a noble career at the helm of educational institutions helping children and adults to read. You will lead the way for the education and growth of future generations.
503 East 13th Street
Chester, PA 19013
503 E. 13th Street
Chester, PA 19013
Room 213
