Online Master’s of Reading Literacy degrees are designed for students looking to work as literacy specialists in K-12 school settings. These professionals strive to help children and adolescents overcoming reading obstacles, and they possess the skills and knowledge needed to ensure their students succeed. Some literacy specialists focus on setting teaching standards and coordinating instruction materials, while others work in the classroom as teachers. Since many graduate students pursue master’s degrees while they are employed, most programs and schools provide maximum flexibility via distance learning so that students may find a balance between work and education.
If you are interested in pursuing an online master’s program in reading and literacy, the following list of schools will provide a sense of what this degree provides in terms of salary potential, professional growth, and job stability.
Methodology
Students who are thinking about becoming a reading or literacy specialist by earning a master’s degree will find that there are many on-campus and online programs available across the country. Narrowing down your options to one specific program at one particular school can be difficult, especially if you don’t know what exactly it is you’re looking for. To help you on this sometimes confusing and overwhelming journey, we have developed the following list of some of the most affordable schools in the U.S. that offer Master’s in Reading Literacy degrees. We consulted the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), searched for the phrase “online Master’s of Reading Literacy degree,” and narrowed down the search results from more than 100 schools into the top 25 based on factors such as average tuition rates and class sizes. We cross-referenced information pulled from the NCES with each school’s website, ensuring the information below is accurate and up-to-date.
Average Cost of Attendance
When comparing tuition rates across programs and schools, it is important to remember that cost is not a measure of quality. In fact, several of the affordable Master’s of Reading Literacy online degrees below are among the best in the nation. When looking at programs, consider whether it offers what you are looking for in terms of your academic and professional goals and avoid basing your decision on just cost alone. For the following ranking, we provided tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students for your reference. However, we awarded points based on the cost for in-state students only as indicated below and ranked the programs accordingly.
Points:
Under $20,000: 3 points
$20,001 to $30,000: 2 points
$30,001 or more: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
In addition to cost and quality, you will also want to consider whether you thrive in small or large classrooms. For instance, some graduate students are seeking a specific concentration area or program only offered by larger schools, while other graduate students are looking to benefit from one-on-one mentoring with experienced faculty members. Although most schools offer similar curriculums and areas of specialization, the size of the classes can have a significant impact on the way in which you learn. For the following list of online master’s degrees in reading and literacy, we placed a higher preference on schools with small class sizes of 10 or fewer students and awarded points based on the table below.
Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Graduate Degree Programs in Reading Literacy
25. Minnesota State University – Mankato
Mankato, Minnesota
Points: 4
Program Website
Minnesota State University, Mankato confers an affordable online MS in Reading graduate program that can be completed by taking one or two classes each semester. Students can choose from either a thesis track or a creative project or alternate plan paper track, both of which consist of 34 credits of study. Required courses cover literacy for culturally and linguistically diverse learners, scholarly writing, and the analysis of research in reading as well as reading assessment and diagnosis, instructional strategies and remediation, and effective reading for content areas. Students also participate in two reading practicum experiences.
Degree Options:
M.S. Reading
In-State Tuition: $18,476
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,476
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
24. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable online MEd in Reading/Language Arts at Sam Houston State University consists of 36 hours of study and is designed for both teachers looking to obtain a Texas Reading Specialist certification and for practitioners wanting to strengthen their knowledge of literacy applications in their classrooms. The low cost master’s degree program is available entirely online and consists of coursework in digital literacies, cognition and emergent literacy, and special topics in reading. Students must also complete 10 hours of field experience in both second language literacy and the administration and supervision of literacy programs as well as 50 hours of field experience in research and literacy leadership.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading/Language Arts
In-State Tuition: $18,018
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,018
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
23. Park University
Parkville, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Park University confers an affordable online MEd in Language and Literacy with an emphasis on special reading designed for certified, experienced teachers. Students are organized into a cohort, taking one course every eight weeks. The online curriculum is comprised of 30 hours of study in areas such as language development for the exceptional child, evaluation of abilities and achievement, counseling techniques with exceptional children and families, advanced diagnosis and remediation of reading difficulties, and teaching reading to linguistically diverse readers. Students also complete two three-credit literacy practicum experiences, and graduates of this inexpensive online master’s degree program are eligible for special reading certification in the state of Missouri.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Language and Literacy Special Reading
In-State Tuition: $16,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,800
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
22. Jackson State University
Jackson, Mississippi
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable MS in Reading Education at Jackson State University is an accelerated, online degree program consisting of classes offered every eight weeks. A total of 30 credit hours are required, and candidates learn how to utilize technology to analyze and collect data from both information and formal assessments while initiating methods of action research. The online master’s curriculum provides expertise in diagnosing the reasons for reading deficiencies and implementing developmentally appropriate materials and methods to optimize success. Graduate students of this inexpensive online master’s degree program also gain insight into the best practices for using collective and individual data to determine the most effective methods of instruction for different types of learners.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Reading Education
In-State Tuition: $16,632
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,632
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
21. University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Northern Iowa offers an affordable online MA in Education in Literacy Education that allows practicing teachers to examine a number of areas of reading education and literacy, including the integration of literacy across curricular areas, the evaluation of literacy development, and the practices, programs, and theories in the teaching of literacy. The low cost online master’s degree program is delivered on a cohort basis through interactive video conferencing technologies with students completing their degree within three years. The program culminates in either a research thesis or a research paper. Graduate students are encouraged, but not required, to attend an in-person, on-campus orientation prior to the start of the program.
Degree Options:
Literacy Education (MAE)
In-State Tuition: $16,288
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,288
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
20. University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable online MA in Reading at the University of South Florida uses engaging and interactive online technologies that allow students to develop critical literacies, explore disciplinary literacy practices, expand their knowledge of global literacies, and advance their media and digital literacy competencies. Students are required to complete 11 courses for 36 credit hours, and two degree plans are available: one for current teachers with a bachelor’s and a reading certificate and another for students who are not teachers looking to pursue careers outside of the classroom. Online master’s course requirements will vary depending on the plan chosen, but all students complete a course in the foundations of educational research and a research course that studies literature for diverse societies.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Reading
In-State Tuition: $15,680
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,728
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
19. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
Points: 4
Program Website
The NCATE-accredited affordable online MEd in Reading and Language at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell consists of 10 graduate-level courses and allows experienced K-12 teachers to enhance their knowledge in the assessment and teaching of students’ reading. Offered through the College of Education, the low cost online master’s degree program is comprised of a research and evaluation course, a foundation class in educating diverse populations, and specialization courses in areas such as language acquisition, the treatment and assessment of reading and language disabilities, and theory and research. Students round out their degree with one elective as well as a capstone project.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading and Language
In-State Tuition: $14,100
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,100
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
18. Black Hills State University
Spearfish, South Dakota
Points: 4
Program Website
The 35-credit affordable online MEd in Reading at Black Hills State University meets the requirements for students to become certified reading specialists in South Dakota and Wyoming. Required areas of study include leadership, action research, and cultural and linguistic diversity in schools as well as the materials, methods, and models for literacy instruction. Students also learn how to diagnose and remediate reading difficulties and investigate educational collaboration and research methods. Students are organized into a cohort and take all courses online with the exception of one practicum experience to be completed in each student’s home school district.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading
In-State Tuition: $13,563
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,130
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
17. University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Missouri confers an affordable online MEd in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum with an emphasis in literacy education that is available entirely online. Consisting of 30 credit hours of study, the low cost online master’s degree program can be completed in two years if students take two classes per semester or four years by taking one class per semester. Coursework covers literacy pedagogy and assessment, the fundamentals of language development from birth to adolescence, the foundational aspects of literacy, and language, culture, and leadership. Students also develop their understanding of how to conduct research in reading as well as the techniques and strategies used for teaching reading from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum With an Emphasis in Literacy Education
In-State Tuition: $13,001
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,001
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
16. Missouri State University
Springfield, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Students who are already certified in another area and earn a MS in Education Literacy from Missouri State University receive a Special Reading Teacher Certification for grades K-12. Students complete 36 to 39 credit hours of study, depending on whether they choose to create a research thesis or a research seminar that involves an extensive paper. Areas of study include the analysis and correction of difficulties in literacy, techniques of responsive support, issues and trends in literacy education, curriculum design and assessment, and the relationship of language to literacy and intellectual development. Students must also pass a comprehensive examination prior to completing the program.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Education Literacy
In-State Tuition: $11,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
15. East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable online MAEd in Reading Education at East Carolina University is comprised of 39 semester hours of study that can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Students earn their K-12 reading licensure in the state of North Carolina while exploring the oversight and management of literacy and reading programs, the assessment and diagnosis of reading difficulties, and current reading research methods. Other literacy- and reading-related areas of study include digital literacy/technology integration, gifted education, library science, and teaching English as a second language. Students also develop action research projects in an area of interest prior to graduating. Students must hold a valid teaching license in order to be admitted into the low cost online program.
Degree Options:
Reading Education MAEd
In-State Tuition: $9,721
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,858
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
14. University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of the Cumberlands confers an affordable online MAEd with a concentration in literacy specialist. The P-12 program is comprised of 30 hours of study and provides graduate students with leadership, skills, and content in both writing and reading at all grade levels. The online curriculum delves into interventions, differentiated instruction, and the design and development of writing and reading lesson plans. Online coursework includes topics in literacy leadership, reading and writing instruction in the content areas, diagnosis of reading problems, and teacher leaders in the professional learning community. At the end of the program, graduates receive a Literacy Specialist P-12 Endorsement that allows them to become literacy teachers as well as consultants, mentors, coaches, and resource teachers in the areas of writing and reading.
Degree Options:
MAEd – Literacy Specialist
In-State Tuition: $9,700
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,700
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
13. Northeastern State University
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable online MEd in Reading at Northeastern State University places a major emphasis on assessment, curriculum development, and effective instruction in the areas of reading and writing. The program is comprised of six hours in professional education courses, 20 hours in reading specialization courses, three hours in enrichment courses, and a three-hour capstone. The online curriculum investigates the reading process and how children learn to write and read, emphasizes instruction, and analyzes curriculum assessment and development within the interdisciplinary approach. Upon completion of the 32-hour inexpensive online master’s degree, students have the opportunity to sit for the reading specialist certification exam.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading
In-State Tuition: $9,697
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,392
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
12. University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, Texas
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Texas at Tyler offers a 30-credit-hour affordable online MEd in Reading that must be completed within six calendar years. Graduates are awarded a master’s degree as well as a reading specialist certificate. Areas of study include new and emerging media literacies and language, literacy, and culture as well as foundations of literacy coaching and action research for literacy educators. Students also complete two three-credit practicum experiences in literacy assessment and literacy instruction. Those who complete the low cost online master’s degree program are prepared for careers as intervention specialists, instructional support teachers, literacy coaches, and reading specialists.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading
In-State Tuition: $7,625
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,129
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
11. Removed by editor
10. Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, Michigan
Points: 5
Program Website
Spring Arbor University confers a top-ranked affordable online MA in Reading program that can be completed in as few as 24 months. Through online courses in literacy leadership, program design and analysis, and children and young adult literature, students gain the skills and knowledge to develop, lead, and support K-12 literacy initiatives. Many online courses involve actual partnerships with administrators and faculty members, including collecting and using data to solve and support school and classroom literacy issues. Students also learn effective strategies to diagnose, identify, and assist students with various writing and reading difficulties. Graduates of this inexpensive online master’s degree program are prepared and eligible to pass the reading specialist certification examination in Michigan.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Reading
In-State Tuition: $20,556
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,556
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
9. East Stroudsburg University
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable online MEd in Reading at the East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania focuses on teaching literacy to PreK-12 graduate students, and candidates may complete the 36-credit-hour, NCATE-approved program in one year or several years if taking classes part-time. The curriculum focuses on literacy acquisition as well as the instruction, assessment, and development of students with diverse literacy and learning needs. Other areas of study include research problems in reading as well as the organization, implementation, and evaluation of school reading programs. The low cost online master’s degree program culminates in a final electronic portfolio and research paper. Graduates are eligible to receive the Reading Specialist Certification in the state of Pennsylvania.
Degree Options:
Master’s Degree in Reading Education
In-State Tuition: $18,936
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,936
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
8. Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, Wisconsin
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable online MS in Education with a concentration in literacy at Concordia University-Wisconsin allows students to earn their reading teaching or reading specialist license in one year and their master’s degree in two years. Offered through the Department of Graduate Education, the 30- to 33-credit-hour program offers insight into the link between reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and students are able to implement what they learn as they design effective K-12 reading programs. Online courses are taught by faculty with cutting-edge research and real-world experiences, and graduates are prepared for careers as teaching assistants, literacy teachers, and special education teachers.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Education – Literacy
In-State Tuition: $17,880
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,880
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
7. Saint Leo University
St. Leo, Florida
Points: 5
Program Website
Students pursuing the affordable online MEd with a concentration in instructional leadership and reading from Saint Leo University benefit from an innovative approach to leadership founded on the Teacher Leadership Model Standards (TLMS). The inexpensive online master’s degree program is comprised of 36 credits of study, and courses are taught by faculty members who are regular presenters at international and national conferences as well as current practitioners in school administration. Courses prepare learners to address the remediation, identification, and prevention of reading difficulties as well as understand the reading process with the goal of increasing students’ reading performance through appropriate materials and strategies founded in research.
Degree Options:
Master of Education (MEd) With a Concentration in Instructional Leadership and Reading
In-State Tuition: $17,820
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,820
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
6. Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Points: 5
Program Website
Grand Canyon University’s College of Education confers an affordable online MA in Reading with an emphasis in elementary education. The 32-credit low cost online program consists of six-week classes in areas such as reading assessment systems, brain-based learning, educational research, professional learning and leadership in literacy, and instructional methods for elementary reading and writing. The program culminates in an elementary practicum in reading that involves research and analysis, the design and implementation of literacy intervention instruction, and coaching other teachers in the best practices for improving student learning. All students must have access to a K-8 classroom in order to complete the assignments as well as a valid teaching license or one year of teaching experience.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Reading With an Emphasis in Elementary Education
In-State Tuition: $16,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,960
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
5. Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable online MEd in Reading Literacy at Belhaven University is intended for teachers with a valid license who wish to impact schools in terms of reading and literacy. The inexpensive online master’s degree program prepares students with current practices and knowledge in reading, and practicum field experiences and internships offer an opportunity to apply classroom techniques and principles. Teachers learn how to assess and diagnosis student reading problems as well as how to improve their strategies and teaching methods in order to meet the needs of their students. The low cost online master’s degree can be completed within two years, and students take 33 credit hours in specialized areas such as teaching reading skills and comprehension, curriculum planning and organization, research methods and procedures, early literacy instruction, and literacy, assessment, diagnosis, and remediation. A comprehensive written paper regarding instructional leadership skills in the classroom is also required.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading Literacy Online
In-State Tuition: $16,830
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,830
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
4. Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Points: 5
Program Website
Carson-Newman University confers an affordable online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction degree with an emphasis in PreK-12 reading. Designed for licensed teachers in Tennessee pursuing careers as reading specialists in PreK-12 schools, the low cost master’s degree program is available entirely online and can be completed in as few as five semesters. Courses are offered every eight weeks, and graduates are prepared for the Praxis II Reading Specialist licensure examination. Throughout the 36-credit-hour inexpensive online master’s degree program, students take classes in educational research, diagnosing and correcting reading problems, teaching reading and writing, and integrating research and learning. Graduates are prepared for roles in reading, classroom management, and teacher leadership.
Degree Options:
Master’s of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: Reading Specialist PreK-12 Emphasis
In-State Tuition: $15,840
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,840
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
3. Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, Nebraska
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable online reading specialist endorsement at Concordia University-Nebraska is comprised of 36 credits of study to be completed through 12 eight-week courses. The inexpensive master’s degree program is offered entirely online, and students complete classes when it is convenient for them. Students can expect to take courses in language and literacy development, reading in middle and secondary schools, teaching writing in grades PK-12, and literacy assessment and intervention. The program also delves into the psychological foundations of teaching and learning as well as the design and creation of a case study in literacy. Graduates learn in-depth knowledge of the linguistic, sociological, and psychological theoretical base of literacy education, understand informational and formal assessment methods, and employ respect and understanding for the cultural academic, ethnic, and linguistic diversity of literacy learners.
Degree Options:
Reading Specialist Endorsement
In-State Tuition: $15,300
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,300
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
2. Regis University
Denver, Colorado
Points: 5
Program Website
Regis University’s affordable online MEd in Reading is ideal for students with a teaching license as well as for those seeking additional credentials. The low cost online master’s degree program enhances the teaching of literacy, including language development, viewing, speaking, writing, and reading for all populations. The online curriculum is comprised of 27 credit hours and a three-credit capstone course, covering teaching assessments and strategies that emphasize research-based, current best practices. Areas of study include reading assessment and intervention, literacy for the diverse learner, the organization and management of school literacy programs, teaching reading and writing, and literacy for students with special needs. Students can choose from three program options, two of which lead to a licensure endorsement in reading in Colorado.
Degree Options:
Master of Education in Reading
In-State Tuition: $15,150
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,150
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
1. Hamline University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Our best affordable online MA in Literacy Education at Hamline University allows students to complete classes at their own pace, earning their degree within two years. Students can choose from an inexpensive online-only program or supplement distance learning with on-campus classes. The program is comprised of 24 credits in required courses that investigate literacy leadership, advocacy, and policy as well as critical and contemporary issues in education. Other areas of study include research design, critical literacy, understanding learning, and essentials in literacy. Students also take 10 credits in literacy-based elective courses as well as either a capstone thesis or a capstone project.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Literacy Education
In-State Tuition: $17,714
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,714
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Master’s in Reading Literacy Degree?
Many students who earn a Master’s in Reading Literacy degree online are already practicing teachers looking to advance in their field or add a certification to their current teaching license. Graduates are prepared to work in the field of education at the secondary and elementary levels as literacy coaches, reading specialists, teachers, and as Teachers of English as a Second Language (TESOL). This is accomplished through concentrations in elementary education, secondary education, English Language Learners (ELL), or literacy coaching. Other common career options include:
- Curriculum Developer
- Writer
- Professor
- Editor or Publisher
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
Since there are a number of career options for graduates with a Master’s in Reading and Literacy degree, narrowing down salary earnings can be difficult. However, reading specialists who work with students who have learning, physical, or other disabilities can expect to earn a salary similar to special education teachers, who made $59,780 per year as of May 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The highest 10 percent of special education teachers earned more than $97,070, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,680. The top-paying industries for this occupation include:
- Secondary schools: $60,600
- Middle schools: $60,250
- Kindergarten and elementary schools: $59,390
- Preschools: $55,840
Reading specialists who pursued a concentration in curriculum development may earn a similar salary to instructional coordinators, who earned $64,450 per year as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $102,200, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,360. Top-paying industries for this occupation include:
- Government: $76,970
- State, local, and private elementary and secondary schools: $69,900
- State, local, and private educational support services: $62,530
- State, local, and private universities, colleges, and professional schools: $58,420
Finally, reading and literacy specialists who work with out-of-school secondary students and adults earned $58,110 per year as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $89,710, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,370. Top-paying industries for this occupation include:
- Other information services: $75,910
- Elementary and secondary schools: $64,040
- Psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals: $60,720
- Junior colleges: $59,870
- Child daycare services: $59,790
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Becoming a Reading Specialist?
The position is both challenging and rewarding. On the positive side, reading specialists may have the opportunity to specialize in high, middle, or elementary school as well as adult literacy, depending on the graduate program. Reading specialists enjoy a decent salary and good benefits, and job prospects are favorable throughout a number of educational settings. These professionals also have the intrinsic reward of watching struggling readers succeed through the improvement of their language skills.
However, reading specialists must also spend a great deal of time and money in their professional development and education to maintain licensure and/or certification. They are also responsible for working together with administrators and teachers who may have differing personalities. Dealing with strict budget constraints and unfavorable district policies and politics can be frustrating, and reading specialists can expect to work long hours both before and after school to meet with parents and other administrative staff on a regular basis.
What Courses Will You Take in Reading Literacy?
Although each school’s graduate program in reading literacy features courses that vary depending on the available concentrations and class requirements, most programs cover similar topics relevant to careers in reading literacy. In addition, some programs prepare students for licensure and/or certification in literacy coaching, reading specialist, or English Language Learner (ELL). Below is a list of some of the courses one can expect to take in a Master’s in Reading Literacy degree.
- Literacy Leadership and Professional Learning
- Literacy Coaching
- Literacy for English Language Learners (ELL)
- Research in Education
- Foundations of Reading
Depending on the curriculum, program requirements, and school, a graduate degree in reading literacy can be completed in varying amounts of time. Length of completion time will depend on the number of credits needed to graduate, if a specialization within the program consists of additional credits than another, if the program consists of a practicum experience or capstone, if students complete classes asynchronously or synchronously, or whether or not the school provides an accelerated option.
Some schools organize students into cohorts, meaning that all participants pursuing the degree will take the same classes, complete assignments together, and graduate at the same time. Other reading literacy master’s programs allow students to move through the program at their own pace, providing greater flexibility to complete assignments at a time that works best for them. In the latter, many graduate students choose to continue teaching or working and complete course requirements on a part-time basis. In general, students may graduate from an online graduate reading specialist degree program within two years by completing 36 credits of coursework.
What Are the Requirements for Earning a Master’s Degree in Reading Literacy?
Most graduate-level programs in reading and literacy require students to have a bachelor’s degree in a related subject from an accredited college or university. In addition, some candidates will need to hold a valid teaching license or certificate or be working as a secondary or elementary teacher. However, since many students choose to pursue this degree as a supplement to their certification in another area or before they are employed in a school district, current licensure may not be required.
How Do You Choose the Best Master’s in Reading Literacy Degree?
Most online graduate degrees provide students with the experience and knowledge needed to improve students’ phonemic awareness, fluency, language acquisition, and reading comprehension. They also train students in the strategies needed to develop and implement assessments, interventions, and tailored classes for their students. Prospective master’s degree candidates should look for a program that also provides a background in topics such as curriculum development, theories of teaching and learning, and child psychology.
As you narrow down the programs available to you, look for a graduate degree that provides opportunities for you to apply your skills and knowledge in a real-world setting. Depending on the school, you may be required to complete practicum experiences, internships, or several hours of in-field training. Students who are already working as teachers know firsthand how hectic their daily schedules can be, which is why one of the above online Master’s of Reading Literacy degrees can provide the flexibility needed for professionals to meet not only their career goals but the ones they have as graduate students as well.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 most affordable online Master’s of Reading Literacy degrees.
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