Get Your Reading Endorsement

Reading Endorsement Program

Advance your teaching career by earning a Reading Endorsement

The Reading Endorsement programs are pre-approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) through our partnership with Andrews University.

In Partnership with

Calumet College

Unlock Your Endorsement in Reading

Are you an Illinois teacher looking to enhance your literacy instruction skills and advance your teaching career? Our Reading Endorsement Program, approved by the Illinois State Board of Education, offers a comprehensive pathway to earning your reading specialist endorsement. This program is designed to equip you with the latest instructional practices and best practices in literacy education, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of your students.

To qualify for the reading endorsement, you must meet specific requirements, including a master's degree in a related field such as elementary education, special education, or early childhood education. Graduate students will complete a series of core courses focusing on the science of reading, phonological awareness, and phonemic awareness, all essential components of effective literacy instruction. Additionally, you will use your own classroom experiences to apply your learning in real-world P-12 classrooms.

Our program offers flexible options to accommodate your busy schedule. All of our classes are online courses, with the ability to take multiple courses at the same time if you wish to finish early. Successful completion of the required courses will prepare you to take the reading teacher test (or reading specialist test) and meet all endorsement requirements.

Enrollment is now open for new students. Whether you are in the Chicago area or elsewhere in Illinois, our Reading Endorsement Program offers the flexibility and expert guidance you need to advance your career and improve literacy outcomes for your students. Join our community of educators dedicated to literacy education and make a lasting impact in your school district.

Cost and Time Commitment for the Illinois Reading Endorsement Program

If you're an Illinois teacher looking to add a reading endorsement to your credentials, understanding the cost and time commitment is essential. Our Reading Endorsement Program offers a flexible and efficient pathway to enhance your literacy instruction skills, aligned with the Illinois State Board of Education standards.

The program consists of six online classes, each lasting five weeks. This structure allows for a manageable workload, making it easier to balance professional development with your teaching career. For those eager to complete the program more quickly, you have the option to take two classes simultaneously, potentially finishing the entire endorsement in just three months.

Program Cost

The cost per course is $600 ($200 per credit), with 6 courses required total ($3,600 total). Our goal is to support Illinois teachers in their professional development without causing financial strain. The total cost of the program covers all required materials and resources, providing a comprehensive package that prepares you for the reading specialist endorsement. Unlike our competitors, there are zero extra fees for technology, books, online fees, or any other hidden cost.

Flexible Scheduling

Understanding the demands of a teaching career, we offer flexible scheduling options. You can choose to enroll in one class at a time to suit a more relaxed pace, or opt for the accelerated path by taking two courses at once. This flexibility allows you to tailor the program to fit your personal and professional commitments.

Time Commitment

Each class requires a focused five-week commitment, during which you'll engage in rigorous coursework and practical applications of literacy instruction strategies. Despite the condensed time frame, our courses are designed to provide deep, meaningful learning experiences that you can immediately apply in your classroom.

Accelerated Path

For those looking to expedite their endorsement process, taking two courses concurrently can significantly shorten the time required. By doubling up on courses, you can complete the program in as little as 18 weeks, fast-tracking your path to becoming a reading specialist.

Summary

Our Reading Endorsement Program is structured to offer both flexibility and affordability, making it an ideal choice for Illinois teachers seeking to advance their literacy instruction skills. With the ability to choose your pace and the convenience of online courses, you can efficiently meet the endorsement requirements and enhance your professional qualifications. Join us to take the next step in your teaching career and make a lasting impact on your students' literacy education.

Courses and Competencies

Adding a reading endorsement to your current teaching certificate in Illinois requires you take the following 6 classes:

MTI 513 Foundations of Reading (3 hours)
MTI 543 Content-Area Reading (3 hours)
MTI 561 Assessment and Diagnosis of Reading Problems (3 hours)
MTI 567 Developmental and Remedial Reading Instruction, Support, Materials and Resources (3 hours)
MTI 568 Literature Appropriate to Students Across All Grade Levels (3 hours)
MTI 591: Practicum in Literacy Assessment and Intervention

Once finished with the courses and turned in your official transcripts to the Illinois State Board of Education, you will then need to take the appropriate test to complete the endorsement process.

A different way to learn: ENDORSEMENT programs designed to fit your life—and all the demands on your time, resources and budget.

We understand that you have professional responsibilities, family obligations, and personal commitments. That’s why we offer a personalized, flexible and cost-effective approach to earn your Reading Endorsement. Our programs are developed “By ACTUAL Teachers for Teachers” and are personalized, career-focused and built to fit your life. Complete your Reading Endorsement coursework using asynchronous online courses anytime and anywhere your schedule allows, and move through your studies and assessments as quickly as you are able.

  • Each course takes only a short 5 weeks to complete.
  • They run continuously through the year so take them in any order.
  • Finish in less than 6 months or take your time.
  • Pay as you go for each course or use our PayPal Later for monthly tuition payments.

Empower Your Teaching Career with Endorsements

Welcome to Midwest Teachers Institute, where we champion educators' growth and advancement. In the ever-evolving field of education, standing out and keeping ahead means continuously expanding your skills and knowledge. Adding an endorsement to your teaching license signifies your dedication to excellence and your commitment to meeting diverse student needs. Explore how our graduate classes can pave the way for not just a pay raise but a rewarding, enriched teaching journey.

Why Add an Endorsement?

Broaden Your Impact

Gain specialized skills to support diverse learner needs, making a difference in students' lives.

Enhance Your Marketability

Stand out in the competitive job market with qualifications that schools are actively seeking.

Unlock Higher Salary Potential

Leverage your additional endorsements for salary advancements and secure your financial future.

Fulfill Professional Development Requirements

Meet your state's continuing education requirements while enhancing your teaching license.

Endorsement Program Spotlights

Designed for busy teachers

Pay as you go. Register for one course at a time

Payment plans available

Lowest Cost Programs in the Nation

Earn Your Endorsement with Ease

Explore Our Popular and Affordable Graduate Level Endorsement Programs

LBS1 Endorsement

PE Endorsement

Reading Endorsement