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Developed in response to the ever-widening literacy gap, Marian University's online Master of Science in Reading Science degree was designed to provide educators with a research-backed, skills-based program to support literacy skills in learning environments. This spring, the first cohort of students enrolled in the master’s in reading science program will graduate from Marian, and they are uniquely prepared to have an impact in today's evolving classrooms.
Grounded in the Science of Reading, the MS in Reading Science degree equips educators with the research-based literacy instructional skills needed to ensure that all students, regardless of ability or need, can develop a solid foundation in reading. This program features a flexible online format that has empowered educators from around the country, and this spring, these graduates will gather on campus in Indianapolis for a special reception celebrating their academic achievement and leadership in literacy education.
This program is one of the few Science of Reading master’s degree programs available nationwide, which is why it has garnered a significant amount of attention in recent years. The fact of the matter is that this program was designed in response to the widening literacy gap that persists in today's communities.
Findings published on the NAEP Report Card for Reading show that only 33% of fourth grade students were reading at or above grade level in 2022, highlighting a decline since 2019 and showcasing the lasting impact of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing that a systematic, research-based approach to literacy instruction is needed to effectively bridge this gap, Marian University administrators and faculty members began to create a program that would provide educators with the targeted skills needed to implement evidence-based literacy instruction in all classroom settings.
The master’s in reading science is regarded as one of the signature Marian University graduate programs, and the graduation of the first cohort is a milestone moment that celebrates both academic achievement and institutional growth. This first graduating class sets the standard for future cohorts and reinforces Marian’s role in advancing literacy leadership nationwide.
The Science of Reading refers to the interdisciplinary body of research about literacy issues and trends related to reading and writing skills in educational settings. Marian University's online reading specialist degree relies on the Science of Reading as its foundation, and includes coursework that centers on structured literacy, cognitive science, and evidence-based instructional strategies.
As the first students to complete this innovative literacy leadership graduate program, this inaugural cohort is uniquely prepared to:
The foundation for this program aligns directly with the growing discourse in educational settings around the country, in which educators are recognizing that there is a deep and immediate need for research-driven reading instruction at all levels.
Educators are some of the most passionate and committed professionals, which is why there are few educators who want to pause their careers to further their own education. Recognizing this, the MS in Reading Science was developed with practicing educators in mind. It features a flexible online format that helps teachers, instructional designers, and curriculum developers balance their education alongside their full-time roles.
With an emphasis on applied learning, this program's coursework lets teachers to learn new strategies and instructional techniques that can be applied immediately in classroom settings. The online format of this program gives students from around the country the opportunity to enroll in the program, engage with a diverse range of educators, and further their own understanding of literacy instruction.
Online learning at Marian University is not an isolating experience. The structure of our online courses fosters deep and meaningful connections between students and faculty members, allowing participants from around the country to develop bonds that mirror those in traditional classroom settings.
The upcoming spring reception for the inaugural cohort of master’s in reading science graduates highlights this commitment to creating an engaging and immersive experience.
Our online learners will have the opportunity to meet in person and celebrate their shared accomplishments. This event serves as a bridge between the digital classroom and the greater campus community.
At Marian University, we actively work to cultivate a culture of community, especially within our online programs. As part of that effort, we have planned a spring graduation reception to honor the ingenuity, dedication, and commitment of the first cohort of the MS in Reading Science program. Faculty members, administrators, and fellow graduates will have the opportunity to gather and celebrate their academic growth and the professional impact that they will now be able to have.
We believe that our online students are fully integrated members of our community, and this event is further proof that when you complete remote coursework online, you always have a place on our campus.
Throughout their time in the Science of Reading master’s degree program, Marian students have been applying their newfound knowledge and instructional techniques in classroom settings, and as a result, many have already begun influencing literacy instruction within their schools. They are seeing the impact of their education in realtime, as they are noticing improved outcomes. Graduates of this program are wellpositioned to improve early reading interventions, create professional development programming that is more engaging and impactful, and share ideas for better literacy assessment techniques. It's clear that this cohort will have an impact that extends well beyond the classroom, which is why we want to recognize and celebrate this milestone moment.
The fact of the matter is, reading and literacy skills serve as the foundation for higher learning throughout a person's lifetime, which is why targeted and evidence-based interventions are necessary in the early years of a child's schooling. The national discourse surrounding literacy instruction continues to emphasize the Science of Reading and promotes the use of structured instructional frameworks.
By preparing educators to meet this demand with confidence and expertise, Marian University's online master’s in literacy stands out from other education graduate degrees and reading science certification programs. In this program, educators can deepen their understanding of literacy science while honing the leadership skills needed to have an impact both within and beyond the classroom. This program directly contributes to stronger literacy outcomes across diverse educational settings.
The first graduating class of the MS in Reading Science program has set a strong precedent for future cohorts, and Marian University looks forward to continuing to grow and develop this powerful graduate program. Future students will have the opportunity to build on this foundation, working to expand the university's reach nationwide and reinforcing Marian's commitment to literacy education. We are so proud of the success of this inaugural group, as we know they will continue to be a beacon of light for future educators who want to advance their training in reading science.
As this first cohort prepares for graduation, it's clear that a new generation of literacy leaders has emerged from Marian University. The combination of online flexibility with rigorous, research-based instruction has distinguished the MS in Reading Science program, allowing Marian to empower educators to transform reading outcomes in their schools. Not only do these graduates embody the university's values of dignity and responsible stewardship, but they showcase Marian's commitment to academic excellence, professional impact, and lifelong learning.
The commencement Mass and ceremony for Marian University graduate programs took place on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the Arena and Convocation Center on the Indianapolis campus. We are excited to celebrate your accomplishments as you prepare to graduate.
All commencement day documents can be found on our website, and there are detailed directions available for you and your guests as well. If anyone cannot attend the celebration, commencement programs and videos will be uploaded and available for those cheering you on from afar.
For detailed information about our commencement celebrations in 2026, visit our Graduation Information page today.
