Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs of 2025

Explore 2025’s top online master’s in reading and literacy programs, designed to equip educators with the skills to help students meet reading milestones.
Matthew Arrojas
By
Edited by
Updated October 21, 2025
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At a Glance: BestColleges’ Top Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs

  • #1: Clemson University — You have the opportunity to earn two additional literacy certifications alongside your master’s degree.
  • #2: University of Georgia — This program is specifically designed for certified teachers interested in improving reading comprehension and literacy outcomes among K-12 students.
  • #3:University of Florida — You can pick between a research-focused master’s track if you’re thinking about doctoral studies or a practical, non-thesis option.

Reading scores among U.S. high school seniors dropped to their lowest levels in over three decades, according to the most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).

These statistics stress the importance of prioritizing teaching students strong literacy skills. And they have turned the “science of reading” into a hot topic in many educational circles.

A master’s in reading and literacy can place you at the forefront of research aimed at answering the central question: How can we help people become stronger readers?

If you’re interested in this career path, read on for a list of the best online master’s in reading and literacy programs of 2025 and tips on how to choose the best one for you.

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Top Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
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How We Rank Schools

#1

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

Clemson University offers an M.Ed. in literacy designed to be completed in two years. This 30-credit program meets the requirements for certification as a literary teacher and literary coach, as well as an English as a Second Language teacher. Applicants must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, a current teaching certificate, and submit recommendation letters and a personal statement. 

Courses are delivered asynchronously via Canva and include studies in instructional strategies, reading and writing assessment, and content area reading and writing, among others. Students complete a practicum in their school district.

Highlights

  • Virtual information sessions available
  • Meets certification requirements
  • No GRE scores required

Know Before You Apply

  • Only for licensed teachers
  • One enrollment date each year

44%

Online Enrollment

$10,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$22,566

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
28,747
Institution Type
Public
#2

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

The University of Georgia's M.Ed. in reading education consists of 36 credits and focuses on delivering studies through emerging digital literacies. Designed as a part-time option, students spend two years completing studies in topics like integrating digital resources in the literacy classroom, new literacies, and culture and literacy classrooms. 

This program can lead to licensure in Georgia. Students pay $411 per credit exclusive of textbooks, exam proctoring fees, and technology upgrades. Applicants must already hold teacher certification.

Highlights

  • Dedicated enrollment coach
  • Three annual start dates

Know Before You Apply

  • Only offered part-time
  • Designed only for Georgia-based teachers

20%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,878

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

95%

Retention Rate

$25,186

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
41,615
Institution Type
Public
#3

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

The University of Florida provides both an M.Ed. and MA in reading education for both practicing and prospective teachers. The M.Ed. comprises 36 credits and does not require a thesis. The MA requires 30 credits and culminates in a thesis or significant project. The curricula of both programs cover topics such as remediation of reading difficulties, trends in reading, and multicultural literature.

Resident learners pay $549 per credit, while their non-resident counterparts pay $687 per credit. Students generally complete these degrees within 4-6 semesters.

Highlights

  • Authorized by state governing body NC-SARA
  • Two pathways offered

Know Before You Apply

  • MA does not lead to certification
  • Must maintain 3.0 or higher GPA

57%

Online Enrollment

$10,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$27,335

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
54,814
Institution Type
Public
#4

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's M.Ed. in reading education program offers the flexibility practicing K-12 learners need when pursuing higher education. Requiring 30 credits, this degree admits new learners twice annually. Required courses include global literacy in a multicultural world, K-12 writing development and instruction, and collaborative leadership in literacy education.

Resident students pay $289 per credit, while non-residents pay $536 per credit. The degree takes just two years to complete, including one summer term. Classes are taught using a cohort model.

Highlights

  • Meets International Literacy Association standards
  • No required practicum

Know Before You Apply

  • Summer term required
  • Higher out-of-state tuition
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission

56%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,337

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

84%

Retention Rate

$18,482

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
30,298
Institution Type
Public
#5

Saint Joseph's University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

Saint Joseph's University provides an MS in education with a PK-12  reading specialist concentration. This online program requires 36 credits and takes 18-24 months to complete. Coursework is taught on an asynchronous schedule with the capstone internship scheduled during summer months for added flexibility.

Tuition rates start at $862 per credit and the program holds International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Accreditation. Learners benefit from a student support coordinator, technical assistance, and a career search database.

Highlights

  • Small virtual classes
  • IDA accreditation
  • Flexible scheduling

Know Before You Apply

  • Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA required
  • Higher tuition than some other options

43%

Online Enrollment

$18,504

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

88%

Retention Rate

$18,504

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
7,201
Institution Type
Private
#6

University of South Florida

  • Tampa, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

University of South Florida's online MA in reading education supports both licensed teachers and those looking to use skills learned outside traditional applications. Most learners graduate within 2-3 years, with part-time options also available.

The program requires 36 credits and a culminating critical task and synthesis statement. Coursework includes assessment in developing literacies, issues in vocabulary and work-study, and literature for a diverse society. 

Highlights

  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation
  • Open to non-teachers
  • No campus visits

Know Before You Apply

  • Synchronous coursework
  • Only two start dates each year

67%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

92%

Retention Rate

$19,048

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
48,566
Institution Type
Public
#7

SUNY Oneonta

  • Oneonta, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

SUNY Oneonta offers an MS.Ed. in literacy education with two concentration options: birth to grade 6 and grades 5 to 12. The degree includes both part- and full-time learning, depending on the semester. Learners complete 30 credits and participate in several online literacy clinics. This provides opportunity for supervised student tutoring and feedback.

Resident students pay $471 per credit, while online non-residents pay $565 per credit. The department offers several information sessions throughout the year to help interested applicants make an informed decision.

Highlights

  • Three start dates annually
  • Rolling admissions deadline

Know Before You Apply

  • Only open to certified New York teachers
  • Requires minimum 3.0 GPA

22%

Online Enrollment

$11,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

78%

Retention Rate

$23,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
5,457
Institution Type
Public
#8

SUNY at Albany

  • Albany, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

SUNY Albany offers an MS in reading designed for working in both K-12 and adult classroom settings. The curriculum comprises 30 credits, including courses such as literacy in society, classroom literacy instruction, and data-based decision-making in literacy. Students can also add a literacy elective to round out their degree.

Application requirements include transcripts from all schools attended, three recommendation letters, and answers to program-specific questions.

Highlights

  • Three start dates annually
  • Open to students outside New York

Know Before You Apply

  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Higher tuition rates than other schools

40%

Online Enrollment

$11,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

83%

Retention Rate

$23,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
16,880
Institution Type
Public
#9

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

East Carolina University's MA in reading and literacy education requires the completion of 30 credits over two years of study and is designed for working students. Designed for professionals working in K-12 studies, the curriculum includes courses such as diversity and equity in literacy, literacy leadership, and coaching, and using literacy assessment for instructional intervention.

North Carolina students pay $283 per credit; non-residents pay $1,014 per credit. The department provides three degree-specific scholarships to help offset costs, both of which online students can apply for.

Highlights

  • No GMAT or GRE scores required
  • Has offered the degree since 1979
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation

Know Before You Apply

  • Substantially higher out-of-state tuition
  • No specializations offered

72%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,749

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

82%

Retention Rate

$17,898

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
26,785
Institution Type
Public
#10

Endicott College

  • Beverly, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Why We Chose This School

At Endicott College, the MS in reading and literacy instruction accepts experienced teachers looking to specialize in reading. This 36-credit program covers topics like theories of language and linguistics, critical media literacy, and children's and young adult literature. 

Faculty possess real-world experience, and opportunities exist for students to receive personal advising, networking opportunities, and support in job placement. Learners also benefit from a reasonable tuition rate of $587 per credit. 

Highlights

  • No GRE scores required
  • Same tuition regardless of state residence

Know Before You Apply

  • No subject-specific accreditations

40%

Online Enrollment

$13,084

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

85%

Retention Rate

$13,084

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
4,381
Institution Type
Private

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

  • Impact: Declining K-12 reading scores mean you have a chance to directly improve the lives of students in the U.S.
  • Increased Earnings: According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), teachers with a master’s degree typically make considerably more per year than those with just a bachelor’s.
  • Access Career Pathways Beyond Teaching: A master’s in reading and literacy creates new career opportunities, such as becoming a literacy coach or instructional coordinator.

Benefits of Getting a Master’s in Reading and Literacy Online

According to our 2025 Online Education Trends Report:

  • 95% of online master’s students and graduates who were surveyed say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
  • Of psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates surveyed, 98% say they would recommend online education to others.
  • Nearly half of online master’s students and graduates (48%) say their online classes included assignments they could use to explore future career options.

How To Choose the Best Program for You

No two master’s programs are exactly the same, even if they both lead to the same degree. Keep these factors in mind when determining which program is right for you:

Cost and Financial Aid

Online

Avg. Tuition & Fees

$7,912

Avg. Net Price

$6,680

On-Campus

Avg. Tuition & Fees

$12,600

Avg. Net Price

$10,276

An online master’s in education (including reading and literacy programs) costs on average $7,912 annually in tuition and fees, according to 2020 NCES data.

However, tuition prices can vary greatly across programs depending on institution type, program length, residency status, and available financial aid opportunities.

For example, out-of-state students attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte pay $536 per credit hour. At East Carolina University, those same students would pay $1,014 per credit, making this school less affordable for nonresident students.

Additionally, the net cost of a degree can be much lower when you take financial aid into account. Net cost refers to a program’s total tuition minus grants, scholarships, and other aid — whether from federal, state, or private institutions.

With this in mind, it’s important to compare the programs’ per-credit cost to get an overall idea of your expected total tuition. Then, check out each school’s net price calculator to calculate the average cost after financial aid.

Program Length

Typical # of Credits

36 Credits

Typical Program Length

1-2 Years

It typically takes students about two years to graduate from a master’s degree program, although this timeline can vary depending on how many credits you need and whether you’re a full- or part-time student.

Most programs typically require 30-36 credits, but the exact number largely depends on the school you attend and how it structures its program.

For example, Clemson University’s reading and literacy program requires 30 credits to graduate, while the University of Georgia’s program requires 36. A higher credit count doesn’t necessarily mean a program is better or worse; it simply illustrates each university’s individual strategy in designing their programs.

Keep in mind that the total number of credits you need not only impacts how long it will take to finish your degree but also your overall tuition costs.

Application Requirements

The list below includes the most common requirements of a master’s degree application:

However, keep in mind that these requirements can vary by program. For example, many graduate schools have recently dropped their GRE requirements, making them an ideal option for working professionals who want a streamlined admissions process.

Some reading and literacy programs may also require applicants to show evidence of classroom teaching experience. The University of Georgia, for example, typically requires two or more years of teaching experience to be accepted into its program.

Accreditation

You should only attend master’s programs in reading and literacy that have programmatic accreditation. This ensures the program meets high educational standards and guarantees your degree is recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

Attending a program with programmatic accreditation is also required in most states if you want to obtain a reading specialist certification or literacy coach certification.

The primary accrediting agency for master’s in education programs — including reading and literacy ones — is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Additionally, you’ll want to ensure the university itself has institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. If you choose a school that doesn’t have institutional accreditation from a recognized agency, you won’t qualify for federal financial aid.

While not necessary, you may also prioritize programs that have earned International Literacy Association (ILA) National Recognition. This recognition indicates that a program adheres “to a rigorous set of standards for preparing literacy professionals.”

Curriculum

You can usually find a catalogue of required courses and potential electives on each program’s website. This will give insight into the subjects you’ll study while enrolled. Depending on your career goals and personal interests, this can sway you from one program to another.

For example, are you interested in a reading and literacy degree because you want to teach K-12 students? Or do you want to work with students with dyslexia? Keep these answers in mind when comparing programs to see if they offer classes that match your goals.

You’ll also want to look at what concentrations these programs offer, as they may give you a deeper understanding of niche topics within reading and literacy. Common concentrations offered include:

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

Student Support

Pursuing a degree involves much more than just taking classes — it’s also about having the right support. Ideally, you’ll want to find a master’s program that can provide career guidance, offer networking opportunities, and support you in balancing your academic and personal responsibilities.

Many programs feature student support services such as academic advisors, tutors, and career counselors.

Saint Joseph’s University, for example, offers a dedicated student support coordinator, technical assistance, and a career search database. These services may help you manage your coursework effectively, resolve issues with online learning platforms, and find a job after graduation.

Beyond academic and career assistance, many institutions also provide counseling services to help students manage their emotional well-being and balance the demands of graduate studies.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Reading and Literacy?

A common career path for graduates of master’s in reading and literacy programs is to become a literacy coach.

Literacy coaches help K-12 teachers by sharing practical strategies to improve students’ reading and comprehension skills. They often lead workshops, provide hands-on support in classrooms, and model teaching techniques that help students become stronger readers.

The requirements to become a literacy coach vary by state. In some states, you may only need a bachelor’s degree, while others places require a master’s degree. If you plan to work in public schools, you’ll typically also need to hold a valid teaching license.

With reading scores among U.S. high schoolers reaching a 30-year low, the role of literacy coaches is likely to become increasingly important — and some states are already taking action. For instance, in South Carolina, 723 state-funded reading coaches were placed in schools across the state to help teachers improve literacy challenges.

Other jobs you can pursue with a master’s in reading and literacy include:

Popular Teaching Jobs
JobMedian Annual Salary (May 2024)Description
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals $104,070Oversee school operations, support faculty and staff, and foster student success in K–12 settings
High School Teachers $64,580Develop and deliver engaging lessons to high school students, helping them prepare for college or their future careers
Instructional Coordinators $74,720Oversee the development of school curriculum and best teaching practices
Middle School Teachers $62,970Plan and teach engaging lessons to middle school students, helping them build key academic skills in grades 6–8
Postsecondary Education Administrators $103,960Oversee academic functions, faculty, and student services at colleges and universities
Source: BLS

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

How much you can earn with a master’s in reading and literacy depends on several factors, including your specific role, years of experience, and location.

For instance, public school teachers with a master’s degree earned $66,960 annually in 2021, according to NCES data. If you reach a leadership position, such as school principal, you could earn upwards of $100,000 per year.

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