Marian University: Wisconsin Act 20 Reading & Language Arts Training

Satisfy Your Wisconsin Teaching License Requirement

Marian University is offering a specialized 1-credit post-baccalaureate course designed to meet the Wisconsin Act 20 Reading and Language Arts training requirement for certain teachers seeking licensure from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WI DPI).

Course Overview

This professional development course provides educators with the essential knowledge and understanding of science-based early reading instruction, as mandated by 2023 Wisconsin Act 20. Upon successful completion, participants will receive 1 post-baccalaureate credit from Marian University.

  • Delivery Method: Asynchronous Online
  • Learning Platform: Marian’s Online Learning Management System (MO2)
  • Course Duration: 7 weeks to complete all components
  • Credit Hours: 1 Post-Baccalaureate Credit
  • Cost: $600

Who Should Enroll?

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  • Educators who require Educator Preparation Program based Act 20 training for a Wisconsin teaching license. (Example: If you have a teaching license from another state and need this training to get a Wisconsin teaching license).
  • Teachers who have completed Marian University’s developmental level programs (EC-MC, MC-EA regular and Special Education, and EA-A Special Education, Reading Teacher).
  • Other educators who need Act 20 training to obtain a Wisconsin educator license but are not currently enrolled in a Marian program.

Who can benefit?

Key Learning Areas Covered (Aligned with Act 20 Requirements)

Science-Based Early Reading Instruction: Systematic and explicit instruction in:

  • Phonological awareness
  • Phonemic awareness
  • Phonics
  • Building background knowledge
  • Oral language development
  • Vocabulary building (lexical and morphological knowledge)
  • Instruction in writing
  • Instruction in comprehension
  • Reading fluency

Note: Instruction in three-cueing (meaning, structure, and visual cues, or MSV) for word-solving is prohibited.

Why choose Marian?

  • Approved Provider: Marian University’s program addendum for Act 20 training has been approved by the WI DPI.
  • Flexible Online Format: Our asynchronous online delivery allows you to complete the coursework at your own pace, fitting it into your busy schedule.
  • Expert Instruction: Benefit from a program designed and delivered by experienced educators.

Start Your Adventure

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Registration Information

The legislation requiring this training went into effect July 1, 2025, so we are prepared to offer this course regularly.

For questions, please contact:

Sandra Cronin, Ph.D. , Education Department Chair, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Science Education at Marian University in Fond du Lac. sjcronin60@marianuniversity.edu
920.923.7636

Christine Martin, Director of Adult and Online Admission, cmartin@marianuniversity.edu, 920.923.8148

Registrar Academic Catalog