Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

Explore the best online master's in reading and literacy programs, what education jobs you can get after graduation, and how much money you can make.
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Updated on February 9, 2024
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  • Teachers with a master's degree make about 15% more per year than those with a bachelor's degree.
  • You can often choose a concentration within your master of literacy program
  • The average tuition for an online master's program in the education field costs $7,912 annually.
Best Online Master's Degree Programs in Reading and Literacy

Online reading programs discuss theory and practical methods for teaching reading to students in kindergarten through grade 12. You will spend time understanding how students learn to read, solutions for students that have difficulty reading, and how social aspects can cause difficulty learning.

You can pursue multiple career paths after graduation, including teacher, policy-maker, and curriculum developer. This page discusses the best online master's programs, program benefits, and common career paths for graduates.

Featured Master's in Reading and Literacy Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Master's in Reading Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Clemson University
Clemson, SC
$10,600 $22,050 49%
#2 Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
$4,839 $19,849 85%
#3 Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
$5,765 $13,108 97%
#4 University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
$4,337 $17,771 79%
#5 California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
$7,176 $16,680 93%
#6 University of Georgia
Athens, GA
$8,878 $25,186 40%
#7 University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
$8,350 $19,048 49%
#8 East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
$4,749 $17,898 94%
#9 SUNY at Albany
Albany, NY
$11,310 $23,100 68%
#10 Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore, MD
$18,540 $18,540 84%

Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: International Literacy Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $552
Out-of-State | $552

Credits to Graduate: 30

Offered 100% online, Clemson's master of education in literacy prepares classroom reading teachers with cutting-edge strategies embedded in educational theory. Coursework includes instructional strategies and coaching for reading education along with a practicum.

The program can lead to additional certification in ESOL, literacy teaching, or literacy coaching. 100% of graduates passed the Praxis exam for teaching reading K-12 or ESOL. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better and a current teaching license. Clemson accepts new applicants only in the summer.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
27,341
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $319
Out-of-State | $1,194

Credits to Graduate: 36

The MA in literacy education program at Appalachian State University is a two-year, part-time program that prepares graduates for careers as teachers, curriculum coordinators, and reading specialists. Core classes include teaching the language arts and advanced study of children's literature. Participants also have the option to complete a thesis. The program blends synchronous and asynchronous online instruction.

To apply, students must hold a bachelor's degree and submit a resume and three references. They must also submit their GRE scores unless they qualify for a waiver.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,849
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$19,849
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
20,641
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $320
Out-of-State | $320

Credits to Graduate: 36

SHSU's master of education in literacy instruction prepares both classroom-based and nontraditional literacy teachers and coaches. Students in this fully online degree take courses such as politics of literacy and digital literacies along with a practicum. Enrollees can also add a dyslexia certificate, and currently certified teachers can apply the program toward earning the Texas reading specialist certification. 

All applicants need a bachelor's degree with a 2.8 GPA or better in the last 60 credits or altogether. Prospective students seeking licensure need a current teaching certification.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,108
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
21,612
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $289
Out-of-State | $537-$1,098

Credits to Graduate: 33

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's M.Ed. in reading education follows a cohort model. Students can graduate in five semesters, taking courses like collaborative leadership in literacy education and individualizing instruction for diverse learners. The program is suitable for working professionals, and coursework can be completed entirely online.

To qualify for admission, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit a statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation. New students can join in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,812
Out-of-state
$17,246
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,337
Out-of-state
$17,771
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
30,448
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

California State University-San Marcos

  • San Marcos, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $449
Out-of-State | $449

Credits to Graduate: 36

The online MA in reading, language, and literacy program at CSUSM caps its classes at 25 students, making it easier for participants to receive individualized attention from their professors. Students join a cohort, covering topics such as learning through text and teacher literacy for the 21st century. They also engage in clinical and field experiences. Participants can graduate in 16 months.

Aspiring master's students must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher, as well as a teaching credential (or comparable experience). Application materials include a statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation. However, GRE scores are not required.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
16,255
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $641
Out-of-State | $641

Credits to Graduate: 36

UGA's master of education in reading education equips teachers to help advance student literacy in traditional and multimedia environments. Students can concentrate on new and digital literacy for PK-5th or 6th-12th grades. 

This 100% online degree requires two core courses, three specialization courses, and six elective courses. The program concludes with a capstone and final exam.

Prospective enrollees need a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA or better and two years of teaching experience. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
40,118
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

University of South Florida

  • Tampa, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $430
Out-of-State | $876

Credits to Graduate: 36

Offered entirely online, USF's master of arts in reading education prepares literacy educators to employ a global and interdisciplinary approach to their profession. This degree requires 12 courses and a comprehensive exam. Students take assessments in developing literacies, literature for a diverse society, and foundations of educational research.

Many classes require synchronous sessions, which help build community and provide mentorship opportunities. All applicants need relevant teaching experience. Prospective students seeking a reading education license should hold a current professional educator's certification.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
49,708
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and International Literacy Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $290
Out-of-State | $1,020

Credits to Graduate: 30

Available entirely online, ECU's master of arts in reading and literacy education prepares K-12 educators for advanced licensure as certified reading specialists. 

Courses include learning to read: from novice to expert, diversity and equity in literacy, using literacy assessment for instructional intervention, and literacy leadership and coaching. The program concludes with a hands-on practicum.

This degree takes two years to complete. Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university but do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
28,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

SUNY at Albany

  • Albany, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $533
Out-of-State | $627

Credits to Graduate: 30

UAlbany's master of science in reading can prepare currently certified teachers for NY state professional teacher certification or equip non-certified literacy professionals for greater success in the field. The program of study includes 18 required credits, six elective credits, and a culminating project.

Students may take children's literature; language acquisition, and data based decision making in literacy, assessment, policy, and practice. Prospective learners in this 100% online program must hold an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,910
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
17,075
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2024

Loyola University Maryland

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: International Literacy Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $670
Out-of-State | $670

Credits to Graduate: 30

Delivered 100% online, Loyola's M.Ed. in literacy for reading specialists equips state-licensed teachers to assume positions in literacy leadership. This program follows the reflexive practitioner model and includes two practica courses. Students also take disciplinary and digital literacies and language, literacy, and culture courses.

Loyola's degree can lead to advanced certification as a reading specialist, K-12, from the Maryland State Department of Education. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a teaching license.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,130
Out-of-state
$52,130
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,540
Out-of-state
$18,540
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
5,140
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Why Should You Get a Master’s in Reading and Literacy Degree?

A master's degree in reading and literacy can greatly boost your education career. You'll unlock new career opportunities, make a bigger impact on students' lives, and possibly earn a higher salary.

"The degree allows someone to become a reading teacher, reading specialist, and literacy coach. Administrators with a degree in literacy and reading are able to use their knowledge to help their school succeed in reading as well."

Kathryn Starke, Master's in Literacy

Benefits of Getting a Master's in Reading and Literacy Degree

  • Choose a career you love most: From reading specialist to instructional coordinator, a master's in reading and literacy can lead to new careers that match your interests and use your expertise.
  • Increase your earning potential: You're more likely to make a better salary with a master's degree than somebody with less education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), teachers two years into their careers make about 15% more per year with a master's degree than those with a bachelor's degree.
  • Make an impact on students: Reading and literacy skills last a lifetime. You can be the person who makes a difference in students' lives by teaching them essential skills that will help them for years to come.

3 Reasons for Getting Your Master's in Reading and Literacy Online

  1. Better school-life balance: Online learning makes achieving a good school-life balance easier. Most online programs allow you to choose when and where you want to learn. This flexibility gives you more room to decide how to fit all of your responsibilities into your day.
  2. Work while you learn: Not needing to meet in person or stick to a regular schedule gives you room to keep working while you earn your degree. After you clock out for the day, you can squeeze in an online lesson or two from home. Or you can use part of your lunch break as a study session.
  3. Study at your own pace: Many online programs have self-paced elements, meaning you might be able to squeeze in some lectures or assignments on a less rigid timeframe. However, even online courses have deadlines to abide by.

What Should I Know about a Master's in Reading and Literacy Degree?

Master’s degrees in reading and literacy programs differ in price, length, and available concentrations. These variables can be important, as they can impact your future debt and career paths.

Prepare for your future by understanding the difference in literacy programs, identifying potential courses and concentrations, and ensuring your prospective school can fulfill your needs.

Cost of Online Master's in Reading and Literacy programs

According to the NCES, the average tuition price for an online master's program in the education field costs around $7,912 annually.

You can apply for financial aid to help pay for tuition and fees. Financial aid can include grants, scholarships, or loans. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to start applying for financial aid.

Average Annual Cost of a Master's Degree:

Public Institution | 2020-2021

$12,394

Private Institution | 2020-2021

$26,621

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

How Long Does it Take to Complete

Most master's in reading and literacy programs require 30-40 credits and about two years to complete. But some accelerated programs may allow you to graduate in as few as 18 months.

Average Length of Time*

2 years
*Varies depending on your school/program

Required Course Credits*

30-40 credits
*Varies depending on your school/program

Concentration for Your Reading and Literacy Master’s Degree

If you're interested in a specific topic within your reading and literacy master's degree, you can choose a concentration. In your concentration, you'll focus your knowledge on niche reading and literacy areas.

Concentrations vary by program, but common options include:

  • Early literacy
  • English as a second language (ESL)
  • Adult literacy
  • Curriculum development
  • Literacy coaching

Master’s in Reading and Literacy Career Outlook

Online reading programs prepare you to assist children and young adults with their learning needs.

To work with young people filled with energy and potentially ambiguity towards learning, you will need patience, understanding, and empathy. The sections below discuss prospective career paths and salaries for master’s in reading graduates.

How Much Money Will You Make With a Master's in Reading and Literacy?

Jobs for a Master’s in Reading and Literacy

Many graduates of master’s in reading programs become teachers, including elementary school, highschool, and special education teachers.

Professionals with a specialty in reading programs can also use their skill set in government, postsecondary education, consulting, or educational back office settings.

Career salaries can vary greatly, with a median salary of $61,620 for elementary school teachers and an average salary of $101,320 for education administrators, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Reading and Literacy Career Paths

  • Reading and Literacy Specialist
  • Instructional Coordinator
  • High School Teacher
  • Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher
  • ESL Teacher
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Education Administrator
  • Reading Coach
  • Adjunct faculty (instructors, lecturers)

Next Steps

Master’s in reading programs have various prerequisites, depending upon the program and school. You will most commonly be asked to meet the following requirements for consideration.

  • Have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university
    • An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above
  • Submit the following documents
    • Statement of purpose
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Proof of a teaching credential
  • Some programs allow applicants to submit experience in a related field instead of a teaching credential

You can simultaneously apply for schools and scholarships. Specialized grants and scholarships for education majors exist, including the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) grant. Complete the FAFSA form for financial aid, as the data is used by both public and private institutions to award scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs

Is a master's in reading and literacy worth it?

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If you have a passion for teaching and reading, then a master's in reading and literacy may be worth pursuing. Graduates from a literacy program may be better equipped to handle diagnosing and solving issues related to reading.

What's a master's in reading and literacy?

Chevron Down

Online reading master's programs help future educators develop the ability to teach reading, prevent failure in literacy programs, and identify reading issues among students. Graduate students will learn essential skills through courses including foundations of literacy, roles of literacy leaders, and literacy assessment.

What can I do with a master's in reading and literacy?

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Master's degree in reading and literacy can help you prepare for K-12 teaching roles or other positions related to education. Other career paths can include postsecondary education, working with government agencies, private tutoring, or instructional coordination.

How much money can I make with a master's in reading and literacy?

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The average salary with a master's in reading and literacy is $55,000, but you can make up to $117,000 depending on role, location, and years of experience according to Payscale data from March 2023. A reading specialist -- a popular job for reading and literacy grads -- makes between $42,000-$80,000 on average.

Other potential jobs and their BLS-reported median annual salaries include instructional coordinators ($66,490), postsecondary teachers ($80,840), and training and development specialists ($63,080.

Page last reviewed November 16, 2023.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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