Top Online Master’s Programs in Reading Literacy

An online Master of Education (MEd) in Reading & Literacy can lead to specialist roles and higher earning potential. If cost or flexibility is a concern, online programs offer affordable and convenient formats for working professionals. Use this guide to walk through top programs, curriculum highlights, and key insights to help you take the next step in your career.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: James Mielke

BusinessOnline LearningGraduate Ed.

Editor: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA

Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent Success

Updated: 12/16/2025

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Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
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Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
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FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
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Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
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Resources
More resources that dive deeper into specific degree programs, student success, and more…
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Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state…
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Costs of Online Reading & Literacy MEd Programs

Tuition varies based on school type and pricing model. Most programs charge per credit, so total cost depends on the number of required credits and the per-credit rate.

Public universities may charge higher rates for out-of-state students, while others use flat online tuition. Private institutions charge the same rate regardless of residency but often have higher tuition.

Beyond tuition, plan for:

Books and instructional materials
Technology or program fees
Reliable computer and internet access

Many students offset costs with financial aid, including loans, scholarships, grants, teacher discounts, and employer tuition assistance.

University	No. of Credits	Cost per Credit	Total Cost
University of Florida	36	$549	$19,764
University of Georgia	36	$645	$23,220
Saint Joseph’s University	36	$879	$31,644

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 and literacy programs are designed for working educators.

Students often enroll part time, taking one to two courses per semester, and many programs use asynchronous delivery, allowing you to complete coursework on your schedule. Expect a steady time commitment — often 10–15 hours per week — but with good time management, continuing full-time work is very achievable.

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

It can, if you choose a licensure-aligned program. Many online MEd programs fulfill the academic requirements for Reading Specialist or literacy coach certification. Typically, you’ll also need:

An existing teaching license
A passing score on a state exam (such as the Praxis Reading Specialist test)

Programs usually include a practicum to help meet experience requirements.

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

Two years is common, but timelines vary.

Full-time study can allow completion in 12–16 months
Part-time formats typically take 18–24 months
Some programs offer accelerated options, while others allow a slower pace if needed

Most online students choose part-time enrollment to balance work and study.

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

Accreditation ensures academic quality, credibility, and financial aid eligibility. Look for:

Regional accreditation for the university
Education-specific accreditation, such as CAEP
Alignment with literacy-focused standards (e.g., International Dyslexia Association benchmarks)

Accreditation protects you as a student and strengthens your credentials when applying for jobs or certifications.

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

Yes, it can. Doctoral options include:

PhD programs, focused on research and theory for academic or research careers
EdD programs, emphasizing applied leadership and practice

In both cases, a master’s degree in reading or literacy is typically required for admission.

Career Outlook for Reading & Literacy Graduates

An MEd in Reading & Literacy prepares graduates for specialized and leadership-focused roles. Common career paths include:

Reading or literacy specialists
Literacy coaches
Instructional coordinators overseeing reading curricula

Others work in adult literacy, ESL instruction, educational nonprofits, publishing, or consulting. Some graduates continue on to doctoral study and academic leadership roles.

Career	Projected Growth	Median Pay	Top 10% Pay
Reading & Literacy Specialist (K-Elementary Teacher)	–1%	$63,680	$104,440
Instructional Coordinator (Literacy Coach)	2%	$74,620	$109,500
Adult and Secondary Literacy/ESL Instructor	–13%	$60,560	$97,980
Training & Development Specialist	12%	$64,340	$116,140
School Principal/Education Administrator	–1%	$103,460	$163,010

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

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH

Public · HLC

The M.Ed. in Literacy Development and Instruction at Cleveland State University offers 34-35 credits focusing on literacy as a language process. It serves teachers, clinicians, and literacy specialists, with concentrations for Reading or TESOL endorsements, emphasizing diverse learner needs and second-language acquisition. Completion includes coursework and exit requirements.

Program Highlights:

Cleveland State University’s BSN program provides clinical placement services with 734 clinical hours and 201 lab hours, ensuring hands-on training and practical experience.
The school offers an accelerated BSN option for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, allowing them to complete the program in just four consecutive semesters, including both in-person and online delivery modes.
Students benefit from two in-person residencies at a state-of-the-art nursing resource laboratory in downtown Cleveland, enhancing skill refinement and face-to-face learning opportunities.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $10,840
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,575

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Liberty University’s online M.Ed. in Reading Specialist Endorsement equips licensed educators with advanced skills to improve literacy through research-based methods, practical internships, and leadership training, requiring 36 credit hours and designed for flexibility with up to 50% transfer credits allowed.

Program Highlights:

Liberty University’s Reading Specialist Endorsement M.Ed. program is taught by education experts with years of real-world experience, enhancing practical learning and mentorship.
The program offers a fully online format with opportunities to complete required practicum and internship hours to meet state licensure requirements, supporting flexible career advancement.
Students benefit from Liberty’s accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring high-quality education recognized for advanced licensure.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,740
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 48,639

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY

Private · SACSCOC

The University of the Cumberlands’ MEd in Reading Literacy prepares licensed educators to advance their expertise through online coursework focused on reading foundations, diagnostic strategies, program management, and specialized literacy instruction, enabling career growth and improved teaching outcomes. The program offers flexible, accelerated pathways for certification as reading specialists.

Program Highlights:

The University of the Cumberlands' Master of Arts in Education program offers completion in just over one year through flexible, fully online learning designed for busy licensed educators.
Students can specialize in high-demand certification areas such as literacy specialist, school counseling, or teacher leader to advance their careers with focused expertise.
The program builds leadership skills and innovative teaching practices, empowering graduates to drive curriculum design and improve educational outcomes in diverse classrooms.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,260
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 14,077

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Florida’s online MEd in Reading and Literacy Education is a 2-year, 36-credit program supporting certified teachers in promoting K-12 literacy growth through evidence-based practices, addressing reading difficulties, and fostering diverse text comprehension, with collaborative online learning and state-approved curriculum.

Program Highlights:

The University of Florida’s online MEd in Reading and Literacy Education offers a supervised practicum for hands-on reading intervention experience, enhancing real-world teaching skills.
The program aligns with International Literacy Association standards and Florida Reading Endorsement competencies, preparing teachers for certification upgrades and professional recognition.
Students benefit from strong academic support services, including tutoring, library resources, and counseling, tailored specifically for online learners to ensure academic success.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,770
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 10,217

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

Marion, IN

Private · HLC

Indiana Wesleyan University’s online MEd in Reading and Literacy Instruction teaches advanced literacy skills grounded in the Science of Reading. The 10-course, 20-month program prepares educators to become reading specialists or literacy coaches, focusing on phonics, assessment, and diverse learner needs aligned with International Dyslexia Association standards.

Program Highlights:

Indiana Wesleyan University's MS in Science of Reading and Literacy Instruction offers a highly practice-focused curriculum taught by experienced faculty all holding doctorates in education, ensuring expert guidance and current pedagogy.
The program is structured for flexibility and accelerated completion, spanning 10 courses over 20 consecutive months, designed specifically for experienced classroom teachers and instructional coaches seeking practical application to become literacy coaches or reading specialists.
Graduates gain competencies aligned with the International Dyslexia Association standards and state literacy endorsement requirements, preparing them to effectively serve diverse learners in early childhood, elementary, and special education settings with evidence-based, multisensory instructional techniques.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,731
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 6,457

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Private · NECHE

The MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a Reading focus at SNHU prepares educators to support K-8 students in overcoming reading difficulties through research-based literacy strategies, assessment techniques, and inclusive instruction tailored to diverse learners, including those with language-based learning disabilities.

Program Highlights:

Southern New Hampshire University’s MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with an Online Teaching concentration offers a portfolio-building seminar and capstone that showcase mastery and appeal to future employers.
The program emphasizes expertise in using learning management systems (LMS) and technology integration to enhance student engagement in virtual classrooms.
Students develop differentiated instruction skills tailored for diverse online learners, increasing their effectiveness and marketability as online education professionals.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $19,467
Accreditation NECHE
Online Students 23,644

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The USF Master of Arts in Reading Education is a fully online program for educators seeking advanced literacy instruction, coaching, and leadership skills. It offers flexible pacing, including a fast-track option, embeds media literacy, and prepares students for Florida’s K-12 Reading Endorsement while focusing on innovative, research-based practices.

Program Highlights:

The USF Master of Arts in Reading Education offers a flexible accelerated option to complete the degree in as little as one year while teaching full-time, with live evening sessions that encourage networking.
The program integrates advanced digital and media literacy skills, including video production and educational gaming, preparing educators to teach students with essential modern technologies.
USF’s literacy faculty are recognized experts actively engaged with local and global literacy communities, providing students access to a knowledgeable and connected learning environment.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,350
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,373

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Public · SACSCOC

The MEd in Literacy Education with a K-12 Literacy Instruction concentration at George Mason University develops expertise in scientifically-based literacy research and evidence-based K-12 instruction and assessment, addressing literacy development and diverse learning needs through theory and practical experience, for educators aiming to enhance student literacy.

Program Highlights:

The program offers elective coursework that can be applied toward secondary graduate certificates and additional licensure endorsements, allowing for specialized career advancement.
Students engage with scientifically-based literacy research alongside practical, hands-on experiences in K-12 literacy instruction and assessment, enhancing classroom effectiveness.
The curriculum includes unique courses addressing social-emotional needs, English learners, and literacy coaching, providing broad expertise to meet diverse K-12 student needs.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,726
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 6,811

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Lamar University’s online M.Ed. in Reading Literacy equips educators with skills to design multisensory literacy programs, assess diverse learners, and teach reading from early childhood through grade 12, including English Language Learners. The 33-credit program includes practicums and prepares students for reading endorsements and specialist certification.

Program Highlights:

Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Literacy offers specialization pathways, enabling educators to earn professional reading specialist certification beneficial for state licensure.
The program includes extensive practicum courses providing real-world field experience and collaboration with practicing reading specialists, enhancing classroom readiness and clinical placement.
Lamar partners with local schools and community initiatives, such as the Nancy Evans Reading Center and literacy collaborations with BISD and ExxonMobil, offering unique networking and hands-on literacy intervention opportunities.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,471
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 8,900

DePaul University

Chicago, IL

Private · HLC

The MEd Reading Specialist at DePaul University prepares practicing educators for leadership in literacy, focusing on diverse student needs and urban literacy challenges. It combines coursework, practicum experience teaching Chicago students, and leadership training, culminating in a thesis or capstone, with options to add a Reading Specialist endorsement.

Program Highlights:

The program offers supervised practicum experiences at DePaul’s on-campus Education and Counseling Center, providing hands-on clinical training with struggling learners from the Chicago area.
Flexible course delivery options, including weekday evening, hybrid, and fully online classes, accommodate working professionals seeking to balance study with employment.
Candidates can pursue an initial Reading Teacher endorsement and later seamlessly continue to complete the full Reading Specialist master’s degree, enabling progressive career advancement.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $22,135
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,689

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The UCF M.Ed. in Reading Literacy prepares educators with evidence-based literacy instruction, assessment, and leadership skills. The fully online 30-credit program includes practicum experiences and leads to Florida Reading Endorsement and Certification for K-12, emphasizing literacy coaching and diverse learner support.

Program Highlights:

The UCF Master of Education in Reading Education program enables students to earn Florida reading certification, making them highly sought-after literacy experts.
The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and integrates digital literacies and content area literacy, preparing students for leadership in literacy education.
UCF’s program fosters a "teacher as researcher" approach through action research, enhancing professional growth and practical application in literacy instruction.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,916
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,106

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO

Private · HLC

Webster University’s MEd in Reading Literacy emphasizes the science of reading and structured literacy, preparing educators to assess and support diverse learners, including those with dyslexia. It is nationally accredited, fostering literacy leadership and advocacy through evidence-based methods for K-12 students.

Program Highlights:

Webster University's MA in Reading program is uniquely accredited by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), International Literacy Association (ILA), and Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), the only program in Missouri to hold this trio of prestigious accreditations, ensuring top-tier, evidence-based literacy training.
The program offers an embedded Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia and the Science of Reading that prepares students for Certification as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist through CERI, providing specialized credentials without separate enrollment.
Webster's program has earned both ILA National Recognition through 2030 and ILA Accreditation, distinguishing it nationally for exceptional alignment with rigorous literacy education standards and offering unique collaborative and reflective learning opportunities.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,140
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,365

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Public · SACSCOC

The M.Ed. in Reading Literacy at UAB prepares educators to become reading specialists by developing skills in science-based reading instruction, assessment, and intervention for diverse learners. The program includes coursework, coaching, practicum, and leadership training to enhance literacy teaching and advocacy in schools. Total credits range 21-30.

Program Highlights:

The UAB Reading Education M.A.Ed. program offers extensive practical experience through internships working with diverse student populations, enhancing real-world teaching skills.
The program culminates in a professional portfolio showcasing advanced reading pedagogy and coaching development, supporting career advancement as reading specialists.
Students benefit from specialized coursework including dyslexia research and advocacy, providing expertise in addressing reading disabilities and supporting exceptional learners.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,424
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,214

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

Public · HLC

ASU’s online MEd in Literacy Education develops leaders in literacy through courses on theory, instruction, and culturally responsive practices. Students design inclusive literacy programs for diverse learners, explore digital tools, and complete a capstone project focused on professional development for educators, preparing for varied literacy roles.

Program Highlights:

Arizona State University's Literacy Education MA program emphasizes faculty expertise from diverse fields, ensuring scholarly rigor combined with practical application in literacy and culturally responsive education.
The program features an interactive capstone project where students design and implement professional development in literacy, fostering real-world leadership skills and reflection as literacy leaders.
ASU provides multiple start dates and fully online delivery with diplomas indistinguishable from on-campus degrees, offering flexible access without compromising credential credibility.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,170
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 16,752

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO

Public · HLC

The CU Denver MEd in Literacy Education is a 30-credit, fully online master’s program training educators to enhance K-12 reading, writing, and oral language skills. It emphasizes culturally relevant teaching, literacy assessment, digital literacy, and teacher leadership, preparing graduates for Colorado’s Reading Teacher endorsement. Practical fieldwork is included.

Program Highlights:

The program offers personalized support for every student through flexible online formats with rolling admissions every term, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
It provides a Reading Specialist (K-12) endorsement along with the MA degree, which significantly boosts literacy instruction credentials and practical expertise for diverse student populations.
Courses are designed with a focus on culturally relevant teaching practices and leadership development, enabling graduates to become innovative educators and leaders in their professional networks.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,100
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,657

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Cincinnati, OH

Public · HLC

The online MEd in Literacy and Second Language Studies at the University of Cincinnati develops expertise in designing literacy curricula, assessing literacy challenges, and teaching diverse learners. It offers flexible concentrations, supports professional goals, and prepares educators for roles such as reading specialists or literacy coordinators.

Program Highlights:

The program offers specialized practica that provide critical hands-on instructional experiences, enhancing students' competitiveness in the job market.
All courses are taught fully online with faculty trained in distance learning pedagogies aligned with Quality Matters standards, allowing students to complete the degree remotely without relocating.
The program enables students holding a valid teaching certificate to earn the Ohio Reading Endorsement upon completion, adding recognized professional value.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,224
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 6,911

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

Public · WSCUC

The MEd in Multilingual and Multicultural Literacy Education at SJSU is a fully online 30-unit program focusing on culturally and linguistically sustaining literacy practices for PK-12 multilingual youth. It integrates critical pedagogy with technical literacy skills and meets California’s Reading and Literacy Leadership Credential standards.

Program Highlights:

The MMLE program offers a fully online format with a culturally sustaining pedagogy that specifically prepares teachers to meet the literacy needs of multilingual and traditionally underserved students in California.
The program integrates technical literacy skills with social justice and multilingual perspectives, enabling graduates to effectively address diverse student populations' needs through evidence-based practices aligned with California state standards.
Candidates complete a culminating online portfolio project demonstrating mastery of critical literacy leadership and teaching standards, providing a practical and comprehensive showcase of professional skills to support career advancement.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 5,610

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY

Public · MSCHE

The MEd in Literacy Education Studies at the University at Buffalo offers advanced online coursework in reading instruction, literacy development, and assessment strategies. Designed for educators not seeking New York State certification, it builds expertise in theories and methods to improve literacy learning across all student age groups in 30 credit hours.

Program Highlights:

The program offers flexible course formats including fully online and in-person options, allowing students to balance education with personal and professional commitments effectively.
Faculty-led initiatives provide year-round, evidence-based literacy tutoring and summer programs for K-5 students, offering hands-on teaching experience and community impact opportunities.
Students receive instruction from the same expert faculty who teach on campus, ensuring high-quality education in a 100% online format with individualized attention in small classes.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $11,310
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 3,663

Texas A & M University-Commerce

Commerce, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading and Literacy at Texas A&M University offers online or on-campus options, integrates synchronous and asynchronous classes, and prepares students for Reading Specialist certification through a 36-credit, non-thesis curriculum focused on literacy theory, assessment, and instruction.

Program Highlights:

The Texas A&M Literacy and Culture program offers an Early Start option allowing undergraduates to begin M.Ed. literacy courses during their senior year, accelerating progress toward the degree.
The online Reading Specialist certification includes both asynchronous and synchronous classes that integrate face-to-face sections via video conferencing, providing flexible yet interactive learning.
Students can pursue the Reading Specialist certification within the M.Ed. program with no additional coursework required, streamlining credentialing for professional advancement.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $3,630
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,097

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC

Public · SACSCOC

The UNC Charlotte M.Ed. in Reading Education is a fully online 33-credit program designed for licensed K-12 teachers to earn an advanced reading license. It emphasizes evidence-based literacy instruction, assessment, and leadership, allowing flexible study while applying strategies in real classrooms to improve student reading outcomes.

Program Highlights:

The program offers an Early Entry option, allowing undergraduates to earn up to 12 credit hours toward the M.Ed. in Reading Education before graduation, accelerating degree completion.
Faculty are nationally recognized, award-winning literacy experts who mentor students in coursework, grant writing, and research.
Students apply experiential requirements in their own schools or communities, enabling real-world practice without leaving their work responsibilities.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,467
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,574

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading and Literacy at Texas A&M offers flexible asynchronous and synchronous classes, core curriculum plus specialized reading courses, and an option to pursue Reading Specialist certification, preparing educators for literacy leadership and intervention roles.

Program Highlights:

The M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction with Literacy emphasis at Texas A&M offers an Early Start program, allowing undergraduates to begin master’s level literacy courses during their senior year, accelerating degree progress.
This program features a blend of asynchronous and synchronous online classes, where students join live sessions via video conference alongside face-to-face cohorts, enhancing engagement and interaction despite remote learning.
Students pursuing Reading Specialist certification complete 160 hours of clinical practicum and internship experiences in literacy, ensuring practical, hands-on training critical for career readiness.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,885
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,670

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

Public · SACSCOC

Clemson’s online M.Ed. in Reading Literacy prepares K-12 educators in 24 months with 30 credit hours, offering certifications in Literacy Teacher plus Literacy Coaching or ESOL. The program focuses on literacy theory, assessment, instruction, and leadership to enhance teaching and student literacy outcomes.

Program Highlights:

The Clemson M.Ed. in Literacy program offers two add-on certifications (Literacy Coach and ESOL) along with the master’s degree, expanding career and leadership opportunities for graduates.
This 100% online program from a top 20 public university provides educational excellence at very competitive tuition rates, accessible to students worldwide.
Students join a global community of literacy practitioners, benefiting from extensive faculty expertise and networking opportunities to improve literacy education practices.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $11,220
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 2,832

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ

Public · HLC

The ASU online MEd in Literacy Education develops leadership in literacy through theory, instructional practice, and culturally responsive education. The 30-credit program includes designing inclusive learning, digital tools, and a capstone project to improve literacy instruction for diverse learners in multiple settings. It prepares graduates for leadership roles beyond certification.

Program Highlights:

Arizona State University’s Literacy Education MA program features faculty from diverse disciplines who integrate rigorous research with practical application to enhance literacy teaching and leadership.
Students complete an interactive capstone project that designs, implements, and reflects on a professional development initiative for literacy educators, providing real-world impact and leadership experience.
The program offers multiple start terms throughout the year, allowing flexible enrollment and accelerated completion in as few as five semesters (approximately 1.5 years).

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,376
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,881

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, GA

Public · SACSCOC

The Georgia Southern M.Ed. in Reading Education is a fully online, 36-credit program preparing educators to support literacy development PreK–12. It integrates theory and practice, focuses on digital and diverse literacy needs, and leads to a Georgia Level 5 certification upgrade when combined with the GACE Reading Content Assessment.

Program Highlights:

Georgia Southern University’s Medical Education program offers high clinical placement rates thanks to strong partnerships with affiliated hospitals, ensuring hands-on experience for students.
The program features accelerated completion options allowing motivated students to finish their degree more quickly and enter the workforce sooner.
Robust employer connections enable networking opportunities and support a high job placement rate for graduates in medical and healthcare fields.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $4,986
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,113

Inside the Best Online Master’s Programs in Reading Literacy

Popular Online Reading & Literacy Master’s Programs

University of Florida — MEd in Reading Education

University of Georgia — M.Ed. in Reading Education (New & Digital Literacy Emphasis)

Saint Joseph’s University — M.S. in Education, Reading Specialist (PK-12)

Costs of Online Reading & Literacy MEd Programs

FAQs from Prospective Reading & Literacy Master’s Students

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

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

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

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

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

Career Outlook for Reading & Literacy Graduates

Resources for Reading & Literacy Students & Professionals

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

Methodology for OMD’s “Best” Colleges Rankings

Step 1: Create a Universe of Eligible Universities

Step 2: Assign Weightings and Rank Universities Based on Scores in Key Areas

About Our Rankings Data

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