Endorsement for Dyslexia

This graduate-level program endorsement is designed to prepare licensed K-12 teachers to develop competency in foundational concepts related to literacy acquisition, knowledge of student reading profiles, administration and interpretation of assessments to plan structured literacy instruction, and demonstration of professionalism in disposition and practice.

The College of Education and Health Professions provides the coursework needed for licensed teachers to submit a request for the dyslexia endorsement from the Arkansas Department of Education.

Traditional financial aid and scholarships are not available for endorsement programs. Those teaching outside Arkansas should check with their home state's department of education to see if this endorsement will be accepted there.

Built Upon the Latest Research

The University of Arkansas Dyslexia Endorsement program is built upon the latest research and best practices for working with students with literacy instructional needs, including students with dyslexia. The program meets the requirements established by the Arkansas Department of Education for Phase I of Pathway R for demonstration of proficiency in scientific reading instruction. This program develops professional knowledge and skills to apply research-based strategies to improve literacy acquisition across the five processes of proficient reading and writing. Professionals with the Dyslexia Endorsement show competency in assessing students, developing explicit and systematic literacy instruction aligned with learner instructional needs, and collaborating with other professionals to build effective literacy instruction.

Program of Study

The 15-credit program is offered throughout the year, with entry beginning spring or summer semesters. Coursework is offered in an online format to meet the needs of K-12 classroom educators. A practicum is required and preferred to be completed in a K-12 setting for those wishing to use their competencies in this environment. Educators receive the highest quality of instruction from faculty with a rich background of work in K-12 reading environments. Further details are provided by the Office of Teacher Education.

Courses in this endorsement program can be used toward requirements in a master's degree program in a related area such as Special Education.

Application: Prospective students, who are not also seeking a master's degree, must apply to the Graduate School as non-degree seeking students.

The Dyslexia Endorsement Plan is offered through the U of A Global Campus.