
The Reading Endorsement program at Baldwin Wallace University allows licensed teachers to add a PK-12 reading endorsement to their existing teaching license. This program is ideal for educators who want to enhance their skills in assessing, planning, and implementing literacy programs without needing to complete a full master's degree. It also helps teachers meet Ohio's Third Grade Reading Guarantee requirements, preparing them to provide intensive instruction for students who are struggling with reading. The endorsement consists of four courses, each worth three credit hours. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have completed Ohio's 12-hour reading core curriculum. The BW Department of Education will review transcripts to verify this requirement and will advise applicants on any additional courses needed to meet legislative codes. This ensures that all candidates are well-prepared to specialize in literacy education.
The Reading Endorsement curriculum comprises four key courses, totaling 12 credit hours. Students can choose to start the program in either the Fall or Summer semester.
Earning a Reading Endorsement positions teachers to become specialists in literacy education, enhancing their ability to support student learning and development. Graduates will be equipped to implement advanced strategies for reading instruction and intervention.
Candidates with degrees from foreign institutions must have a course-by-course evaluation with degree verification completed by an approved credential evaluation service (Education Credential Evaluators, Educational Perspectives, SpanTran, or World Education Services (WES)). This evaluation must be sent directly to BW from the service. Applicants with a criminal record that has not been expunged or sealed may not be eligible for admission to teacher licensure programs.
Tuition costs are per credit hour. The total cost will depend on the number of credits taken. There is no application fee.
For 2026-27, tuition is $621 per credit hour, making the total program cost for the 12-credit endorsement $7,452. Educators in partner school districts may be eligible for a discounted rate.
Applicants must hold an existing teaching license and have completed Ohio's 12-hour reading core curriculum. A GPA of 3.0 or above is recommended.
The program consists of four courses totaling 12 credit hours, and can be completed in one term.
You will need to submit an online application, official transcripts from all previous institutions, a foreign credential evaluation if your degree is from outside the US, and two professional recommendations.
It is recommended to apply at least four weeks before the desired enrollment term, which can be either Fall or Summer.
This endorsement can position you as a Reading Specialist, Literacy Coach, or a Classroom Teacher with enhanced literacy skills.