On this page:

• What does the Comprehensive Examination involve?
• What is the McDaniel College Reading Clinic?
• What is the best sequence of courses?
• When should I enroll in EDU: 550 (Introduction to Research Methodology)?

What does the Comprehensive Examination involve?
The written comprehensive examination consists of a series of essay questions that reflect foundational knowledge and skills from core coursework and performance outcomes.  A team of internal evaluators scores the Comprehensive Examination using an anonymous review process. The review can result in a pass, fail, or a request for a conference to justify or explain responses.  The comprehensive examination may be repeated no more than three times.

What is the McDaniel College Reading Clinic?
The McDaniel College Reading Clinic is a creative summer program that has been in operation for three decades and has served hundreds of children from Carroll County communities.  The Reading Clinic offers four weeks of intensive, individualized instruction for primary, intermediate, and middle school students.

What is the best sequence of courses?
The revised program reflects a three-phase sequence of coursework including:

• I. Foundational Knowledge,
• II. Diagnostic Teaching and Research Practices, and
• III. Literacy Leadership and Professional Development. 

Candidates should begin with Phase I coursework including RDS: 540, RDS: 542, RDG: 532, and one elective. Download the Reading Program Study Plan (pdf) for more details.

When should I enroll in EDU: 550 (Introduction to Research Methodology)?
Ideally, candidates should complete EDU: 550 in Phase II of the program sequence.  Phase II incorporates Diagnostic Teaching and Research Practices.  We strongly recommend completion of research methods prior to enrolling in RDS: 554 Literacy Leadership for Reading Professionals.