Inside Online Master’s Programs in Reading Literacy

MEd’s in Reading & Literacy: Overview

MEd in Reading & Literacy programs blend theory and practical methods to help you teach literacy across PreK–12 grade levels. Students complete coursework in a variety of subjects such as reading development, assessment of reading difficulties, literacy for English language learners, and reading program curriculum design. Online and hybrid options are common. Fully online programs let you complete all degree requirements remotely through part-time study in about 1.5 to two years. Some programs include an in-person practicum or field experience where you apply reading intervention strategies with students in classroom settings.

Admissions requirements vary between specific programs, but typically include a bachelor’s degree earned with a minimum GPA (3.0 is common). One to two years of experience working in education or the classroom is often required or recommended. Most reading and literacy master’s programs are structured for licensed teachers seeking a reading specialist certification, but some also admit career-changers (often adding extra prerequisite courses).

Popular Online Reading & Literacy Master’s Programs

Below we highlight three accredited U.S. universities offering respected online MEd programs in Reading & Literacy. Each combines flexible online learning with robust preparation for specialist roles.

Costs of Online Reading & Literacy MEd Programs

Costs of online Reading & Literacy MEd programs vary based primarily on the type of school (public or private) and program format. Tuitions are charged on a per-credit basis, so multiplying the per-credit rate by the total number of required credits yields the total tuition cost. Public universities often charge higher rates for out-of-state residents, while others charge a single rate for all online students, regardless of residency status. Private schools always charge the same tuition to all students, regardless of residency, but tend toward higher rates than public schools. 

Beyond tuition, you’ll want to take into account additional program fees and costs for such items as books and materials, a reliable computer, and internet access. Qualifying students will be able to mitigate their total program costs by obtaining financial aid. Common financial aid resources for online master’s students include student loans, scholarships and grants, teacher tuition discounts, and more. And employer tuition assistance opportunities are also often available for teaching professionals in both public and private school settings.

This table offers a comparison of current tuition costs for the three online reading and literacy master’s programs profiled above:

FAQs from Prospective Reading & Literacy Master’s Students

Can I work full-time while pursuing an online MEd in Reading & Literacy?

Yes. Most online reading master’s programs are designed with working educators in mind. You can often attend part-time, taking one to two courses per semester, and many programs feature asynchronous delivery, so you can attend to your studies at any time. Be prepared for a steady time commitment (perhaps 10–15 hours each week. But with good time management (something you likely already possess), you can definitely continue working a full-time job while you earn your degree.

Will an online MEd in Reading & Literacy lead to a Reading Specialist certification?

It will if you choose a program geared toward licensure. Many online MEd programs fulfill the academic requirements for a state reading specialist or literacy coach certification/endorsement. Typically, you’ll need an existing teaching license and to pass a state exam (for example, the Praxis Reading Specialist test) to obtain official certification. But your master’s coursework will likely cover the needed competencies and include a practicum to meet experience requirements for Reading Specialist certification.

How long does it take to complete an online master’s in Reading & Literacy?

Two years is common, but timelines can vary. If you study full-time (e.g. 3 courses per semester), you might finish in as fast as 12–16 months. However, most online students opt for part-time formats that allow them to continue with their full-time jobs. Part-time program lengths are typically 18–24 months. A few programs offer accelerated schedules or allow you to take extra courses to graduate sooner. Conversely, some programs let you spread out coursework over three or more years if you need a slower pace.

Why is accreditation important for an online Reading & Literacy MEd program?

Accreditation is a stamp of quality and academic credibility. It also matters for financial aid eligibility. You should look for programs that are regionally accredited (meaning the university meets rigorous standards) and possess education-specific accreditation as well. Examples of program-specific accreditation agencies include the CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) and International Dyslexia Association (for meeting standards in reading science). In short, attending an accredited online program protects you as a student and lends authority to your MEd when you apply for jobs and certifications.

Will my MEd in Reading & Literacy prepare me to continue my studies to earn a doctoral degree?

In can. A reading and literacy education doctorate prepares students to fill top-tier positions in the profession. PhD programs in the field focus primarily on the creation of new research and theory to prepare students for roles in postsecondary education (as professors and administrators) and advanced research. EdD programs emphasize practical application of theory and research in preparing graduates for positions in administration and leadership. In either case, you’ll likely need a MEd for admissions into a doctoral program.

Career Outlook for MEd in Reading & Literacy Grads

Earning an MEd in Reading & Literacy equips students for specialized roles in education focused on improving reading skills. They’re often employed in K-12 schools as Reading Specialists providing targeted reading intervention to students who need extra help. Many graduates become Literacy Coaches, working alongside teachers to enhance reading instruction school-wide. And, with experience, some move into curriculum design or become Instructional Coordinators where they oversee reading curricula and train teachers.

If you’re interested in adult education, your degree can lead to positions teaching literacy or ESL to adults. There are also opportunities outside traditional schools. For example, you could join an educational nonprofit focused on literacy, work in publishing as a literacy content developer, or serve as an independent education consultant specializing in reading programs. Additionally, some graduates continue on to doctoral programs, aiming for roles in academia or high-level curriculum leadership. 

Below is a snapshot of five popular careers for MEd in Reading & Literacy degree holders:

Resources for Reading & Literacy Students & Professionals

• Colorín Colorado — A bilingual site for educators and families of English Language Learners (ELLs) offering strategies to help ELL students develop literacy in English. You’ll find classroom videos, lesson plan ideas, and articles on topics like vocabulary development and reading comprehension.
• Edutopia: Literacy — Edutopia is known for its insightful articles and videos on innovative teaching practices. Their section on Literacy contains real-world tips from teachers such as how to foster a love of reading, integrate technology into literacy, and use project-based learning to boost reading and writing.
• International Dyslexia Association (IDA) — IDA focuses on the needs of students with dyslexia and other reading differences. The site is a treasure trove of science-based strategies and training opportunities in structured literacy.
• International Literacy Association (ILA) — Global professional organization for literacy educators. The ILA site features research-based resources and standards for teaching reading, helping you stay on top of best practices.
• LINCS — Literacy Information and Communication System — Professional development platform from the U.S. Department of Education for adult literacy and ESL educators. It offers free self-paced courses, discussion boards, and resource collections on teaching adult learners.
• National Center on Improving Literacy (NCIL) — This federally funded center provides resources to support literacy interventions for struggling learners and students with disabilities. NCIL’s site offers toolkits for educators, parent guides, and instructional strategies. Materials will complement your graduate coursework in assessment and intervention.
• The Reading League — Nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of evidenced-aligned reading instruction. Its website offers free videos, a journal, and frequent online events featuring researchers and expert practitioners.
• Reading Rockets— Online resource hub filled with practical articles, instructional strategies, and videos for teaching reading. Especially great for ideas on phonemic awareness, fluency activities, and differentiated instruction. It also has book recommendations and teacher toolkits for literacy interventions.
• Science of Reading: The Podcast — Popular podcast hosted by Amplify that brings on leading researchers and educators to discuss how kids learn to read. Episodes break down topics like phonics, dyslexia, and reading comprehension in an accessible, conversational way.
• What Works Clearinghouse: Literacy — Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences, the What Works Clearinghouse reviews education research to tell you “what works.” Their literacy topic area provides practice guides and intervention reports on reading programs.

Ranking the Best Online Master’s Programs in Reading & Literacy

We’ve compiled a ranking of the best online MEd in Reading & Literacy programs currently offered. This ranking is built on extensive data analysis from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics and over 7,700 postsecondary institutions nationwide. Key factors in our methodology include affordability (tuition rates and financial aid availability), accreditation, academic quality, and access to student support services (like academic advising and career counseling). Let our list help you find the ideal program fit for your academic and career goals.