School Finder

Top 35 Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy

A master’s in reading and literacy online degree prepares students for a career promoting literacy and teaching others to read. Those who complete a master’s in reading and literacy will be prepared for careers as literacy specialists, literacy interventionists, teachers, and more.

Top Affordable Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy: Methodology

For students who want to pursue a master’s degree in reading and literacy online, we have compiled a list of the top programs available. These programs have been selected for this ranking based upon a scoring system that considers the cost of tuition and the length of the program. These programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards and have had their nonprofit status verified. The programs are ordered from highest to lowest score. Note that tuition rates listed below are based on cost per credit, and individual programs may have additional fees.

Ranking the Top Master’s in Reading and Literacy Online Programs Available

#1. University of West Georgia

Online Master of Education with a Major in Reading Instruction

Carrollton, Georgia

Students at the University of West Georgia can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Education in Reading Instruction degree. This online master’s in reading and literacy degree is a great option for those students who wish to become teachers who focus exclusively on teaching others how to read. This particular degree focuses on providing teachers knowledge of literary theories, writing practices, and more to teach their students to be literate. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of West Georgia with accreditation for this degree. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree.

Tuition: $7,230

Score: 100

#2. University of Texas at Tyler

Online Master of Education in Reading

Tyler, Texas

 

Website

University of Texas at Tyler students can enroll in this Online Master of Education in Reading degree. This program is offered to students entirely online and can be completed over six semesters. Those who have completed this degree have gone on to have careers as reading teachers and reading specialists. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this master’s in reading and literacy online. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Texas at Tyler with accreditation for this online master’s in reading and literacy. Courses in this program include Foundations of Literacy Coaching, Writing Workshop, Issues in Teaching of Literacy, and more.

Tuition: $7,780

Score: 99.75

#3. Arkansas State University

Online Master of Science in Education in Reading

Jonesboro, Arkansas

 

Website

This Online Master of Science in Education in Reading degree is offered by Arkansas State University. This master’s in reading and literacy online has been designed to be taken entirely online and completed in under twelve months. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation has provided Arkansas State University with accreditation for this degree. Some of the courses in this program included Adolescent Literacy, Principles of Literacy Cognition, Literacy for Diverse Learners, and more. This online master’s in reading and literacy is a great option for those who want to teach and work with those to improve their literacy.

Tuition: $9,510

Score: 99.5

#4. University of the Cumberlands

Online Master of Arts in Education – Literacy Specialist

Florence, Kentucky

 

Website

Upcoming University of the Cumberlands students can enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Education – Literacy Specialist. This master’s in reading and literacy online has been accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. The University of Cumberlands offers this degree program entirely online. Students in this program will develop the skills needed to become effective teachers while specializing in the techniques used to teach and promote literacy. Courses in this program include Reading in the Content Areas, Diagnosis of Reading Problems, and more. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $9,700

Score: 99.25

#5. University of Central Arkansas

Online Master of Science in Education in Reading / Dyslexia Endorsement

Conway, Arkansas

 

Website

Students can choose to enroll in this Online Master of Science in Education in Reading/Dyslexia Endorsement degree. This program of study is designed to be taken entirely online. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The University of Central Arkansas expects students to earn the entirety of this degree in under two years. Students in this program will work through a developed curriculum to help them learn the skills needed to teach people how to read. Specifically, they will learn how to work with those who have dyslexia.

Tuition: $9,750

Score: 99

#6. Western New Mexico University

Online Master of Arts in Teaching – Reading Education

Silver City, New Mexico

 

Website

Western New Mexico University currently offers students an Online Master of Arts in Teaching – Reading Education. Through this program of study, students will develop the knowledge needed to become effective educators. They will also specialize in what is needed to help others learn how to read and write proficiently. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this master’s in reading and literacy online. Some of the courses offered in this program include Early Childhood Reading, Children’s Literature, Teaching of Reading, and more. Western New Mexico University has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $10,416

Score: 98.75

#7. Eastern New Mexico University

Online Master of Education with Emphasis in Reading and Literacy

Portales, New Mexico

 

Website

Offered entirely online, Eastern New Mexico University’s Online Master of Education with Emphasis in Reading and Literacy is a great degree option for aspiring educators. Students will work through a curriculum designed to teach them what it takes to work in education through the pursuit of this degree program. Those who complete this degree program have gone on to have careers as teachers, reading coaches, reading coordinators, literacy facilitators, and more. Some of the courses in this program include Adolescent Literacy, Content Area Literacy, Language Arts and the Teacher, and more. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this online master’s in reading and literacy.

Tuition: $11,160

Score: 98.5

#8. Louisiana State University

Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Reading & Literacy

Shreveport, Louisiana

 

Website

Offered at Louisiana State University, this Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Reading & Literacy provides students with the knowledge needed to become reading educators. Students can expect to complete this program of study in as little as 10 months if taken full-time. Some of the courses in this program include Educational Technology, Utilizing Data for School Improvements, Reading Assessment, and more.  A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation has provided Louisiana State University with accreditation for this master’s in reading and literacy online.

Tuition: $11,203

Score: 98.25

#9. University of Alabama At Birmingham

Online Master of Arts in Secondary Education (Reading Specialist P-12 Certification)

Birmingham, Alabama

 

Website

Students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham can enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Secondary Education (Reading Specialist P-12 Certification). This study program is a fantastic option for students who want to become teachers who specifically work with students to help promote literacy. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. If taken full-time, students can expect to complete this degree in as little as 18 months. The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education has provided the University of Alabama with accreditation for this degree program.

Tuition: $12,600

Score: 98

#10. Wilmington University

Online Master of Education in Reading

New Castle, Delaware

 

Website

This Online Master of Education in Reading degree is made available to students by Wilmington University. This online master’s in reading and literacy provides students with all the knowledge and skills needed to become educators specialized in teaching reading. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation has provided Wilmington University with accreditation for this degree program. A total of 35 credit hours are needed to complete this master’s in reading and literacy online. Wilmington University students enrolled in this program should expect to finish this degree in under 18 months.

Tuition: $25,425

Score: 97.5

#11. University of Colorado Denver

Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education, English Education

Denver, Colorado

 

Website

Students interested in studying at the University of Colorado Denver can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education, English Education degree. This study program is made available to students entirely online and is a great option for those who want to become reading educators. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program. The Higher Learning Commission has provided the University of Colorado Denver with accreditation for this degree program. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in under two years if taken full-time.

Tuition: $13,560

Score: 97.25

#12. Minnesota State University

Online Master of Science in Reading

Mankota, Minnesota

 

Website

Minnesota State University currently offers students this Online Master of Science in Reading degree. This online master’s in reading and literacy is a great option for developing students into successful literacy educators. A total of 31 credit hours are needed to complete this master’s in reading and literacy online. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in about 18 months if taken full-time. By pursuing this degree, students will develop the skills needed as an educator while specializing their knowledge in teaching others how to read and write. Courses in this program include Preparing Students to read, Effective Reading for Content Areas, and more.

Tuition: $13,764

Score: 97

#13. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Online Master of Education – Reading

Little Rock, Arizona

 

Website

This Online Master of Education – Reading Generalist degree is offered to students by the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. To complete this program, students must earn a total of 30 credit hours. This program is offered to students in an accelerated format online, allowing them to earn this degree quickly. Students can choose from a Reading Specialist Licensure track or a Reading Generalist track. Courses in this program of study include Foundations of Teaching Reading, Literacy in the Content Areas, Diagnosis of Reading Difficulties, and more.

Tuition: $13,788

Score: 96.75

#14. Concordia University Chicago

Online Master of Arts in Reading Education

River Forest, Illinois

 

Website

Concordia University Chicago offers this Online Master of Arts in Reading Education degree to students entirely online. This program of study can be completed in about 24 months. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Concordia University Chicago has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this online master’s in reading and literacy include Beginning Reading Instruction, Foundations of Language and Reading Theory, Assessment of Reading with Remedial Materials and Resources, and more. This online master’s in reading and literacy is a great option for becoming teachers, reading coaches, and more.

Tuition: $14,280

Score: 96.5

#15. Olivet Nazarene University

Online Master of Arts in Education: Reading Specialist

Bourbonnais, Illinois

 

Website

Students at Olivet Nazarene University can enroll in the school’s Online Master of Arts in Education: Reading specialist degree. This program of study requires a total of 32 credits to complete. Through the pursuit of this degree, students will work through a curriculum designed to teach them how to work with students to promote higher literacy levels. Courses in this program are offered in an accelerated eight-week format. Courses in this program include Content Area Reading, Foundations of Reading, Methods of Educational Research, and more. Students can expect to complete this degree in as little as 16 months.

Tuition: $14,400

Score: 96.25

#16. Pittsburg State University

Online Master of Science in Reading, Reading Specialist Licensure

Pittsburg, Kansas

 

Website

Pittsburg State University offers this Online Master of Science in Reading, Reading Specialist Licensure degree entirely online. This study program provides students with the training needed to work with students from PK-12 to help them develop their ability to read and write. A total of 39 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. This program of study has received accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in about two years.

Tuition: $14,469

Score: 96

#17. Newman University

Online Master of Science in Education – Reading Specialist

Wichita, Kansas

 

Website

Newman University students can enroll in this Online Master of Science in Education  – Reading Specialist degree. This study is offered entirely online and does not require that students visit the Newman University campus to complete it. Through this study program, students will develop the skills needed to help teach others how to read and write. A total of 33 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. By earning this degree, students will also have the option to pursue teaching licensure. The Higher Learning Commission has provided Newman University with accreditation for this program. Courses in this program include Cultural Diversity, Advanced Instructional Methods, Organizing a Reading Program, and more.

Tuition: $14,520

Score: 95.75

#18. Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master of Arts in Education – Literacy P-12

Richmond, Kentucky

 

Website

Students at Eastern Kentucky University can enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Education – Literacy P-12 degree. This study program is designed to prepare students for roles in teacher leadership and a career as a reading specialist or coach. Courses in this program are offered in an eight-week accelerated course format. Students are not required to visit the Eastern Kentucky University campus at any point to complete this degree. A total of 30 credit hours are needed for completion. Eastern Kentucky University has received accreditation for this program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $15,300

Score: 95.5

#19. University of Northern Iowa

Online Master of Arts in Education in Literacy Education

Cedar Falls, Iowa

 

Website

The University of Northern Iowas offers students this Online Master of Arts in Education in Literacy Education degree. This program of study provides students with the skills and practice needed to become effective reading educators. By pursuing this degree program, students will learn the various skills and techniques needed to work with young people to develop their reading and writing skills. The University of Northern Iowa has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. A total of 31 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $15,779

Score: 95.25

#20. California State University – San Marcos

Online Master of Arts in Reading, Language, and Literacy

San Marcos, California

 

Website

This Online Master of Arts in Reading, Language, and Literacy degree is available to students at California State University –  San Marcos. This program of study is offered to students entirely online. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in about two years. California State University-San Marcos has received accreditation for this program from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This study program provides students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge needed to become an effective literacy educator.

Tuition: $16,164

Score: 95

#21. Regis University

Online Master of Education – Reading Specialist

Denver, Colorado

 

Website

Students at Regis University can enroll in this Online Master of Education – Reading Specialist degree. This program of study is made available to students entirely online. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Courses in this program are offered in an accelerated 8-week course format. Students can choose from three different tracks: a degree-only track, a reading specialist endorsement, or a reading teacher endorsement. Regis University has received accreditation for this degree from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this degree include Reading Assessment and Intervention, Literacy for the Diverse Learning, and more.

Tuition: $16,350

Score: 94.75

#22. Jackson State University

Online Master of Science in Reading Education

Jackson, Mississippi

 

Website

Jackson State University offers this Online Master of Science in Reading Education degree to its students. This accelerated online program is designed to provide students with the skills they need to quickly work as a reading teacher or reading educator. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree program in under two years. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Courses in this program include Psychology of Literacy, Theory, and Research in Teaching Literacy, and more. Jackson State University has received accreditation for this program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $16,632

Score: 94.5

#23. Edinboro University

Online Master of Education in Reading

Edinboro, Pennsylvania

 

Website

This Master of Education in Reading degree is offered to students by Edinboro University. Edinboro University has received accreditation for this degree program from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Students enrolled in this degree program will learn how to work with children to help them to develop the reading and writing skills they need to succeed. Courses in this study include Research Design in Reading, Reading Clinic, Literacy Instruction for Content Area Professional, and more. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study.

Tuition: $17,040

Score: 94.25

#24. University of West Florida

Online Master of Education in Reading

Pensacola, Florida

 

Website

Students enrolled at the University of West Florida can enroll in this Online Master of Education in Reading Degree. This program of study helps to train students with the skills needed to become a reading specialist. By completing this degree, students will be prepared for reading specialist licensure in the state of Florida. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation has provided the University of West Florida with accreditation for this degree program. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in about 24 months if taken full-time.

Tuition: $17,237

Score: 94

#25. Belhaven University

Online Master of Education in Reading Literacy

Jackson, Mississippi

 

Website

Belhaven University offers this Online Master of Education in Reading Literacy degree to their students online. By pursuing this degree, students will develop the skills needed to prepare for a career as a reading specialist. Belhaven University has received accreditation for this degree program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. A total of 33 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Students should expect to be able to complete this degree in under two years. This program’s courses include Content Area Literacy, Early Literacy Instruction, Enhanced Student Learning, and more.

Tuition: $17,655

Score: 93.5

#26. Old Dominion University

Online Master of Science in Education – Reading Education

Norfolk, Virginia

 

Website

Old Dominion University students can choose to enroll in this Online Master of Science in Education – Reading Education degree. This program of study provides students with the training needed to become effective educators. They will learn the various tools and techniques needed to help promote literacy in children and adults. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Old Dominion University has received accreditation for this degree program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $17,850

Score: 93.25

#27. University of North Dakota

Online Master of Science in Reading Education

Grand Forks, North Dakota

 

Website

This Online Master of Education in Reading Education is offered to students at the University of North Dakota. This program of study has been designed to be completed in as little as two years. A total of 32 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The University of North Dakota has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. This program is a great option for students who want to develop the skills needed to become reading teachers and educators. Courses in this study include Response to Intervention, Progress Monitoring, Reading Clinic, and much more.

Tuition: $17,888

Score: 93

#28. Grand Canyon University

Online Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education

Phoenix, Arizona

 

Website

Grand Canyon University students can enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Reading with an Emphasis in Elementary Education degree. This program of study is designed to provide students the training needed to become literacy specialists and interventionists. By completing this program, students will be ready to work with people of all ages to improve their literacy. A total of 32 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Some of the courses in this program include Brain-Based Learning, Survey of Reading Assessments, Literate Environments, and more. Grand Canyon University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $18,080

Score: 92.75

#29. University of Nebraska at Kearney

Online Master of Arts in Education – Online Reading PK-12

Kearney, Nebraska

 

Website

Students can choose to enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Education – Online Reading PK-12 degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This study program is designed to help students learn the skills needed to help teach children how to read via distance education. By completing this degree, students will be eligible for a Reading PK-12 endorsement from the state of Nebraska. The University of Nebraska at Kearney has received accreditation for this degree from the Higher Learning Commission.  A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program

Tuition: $18,144

Score: 92.5

#30. Saint Leo University

Online Master of Education in Instructional Leadership with Reading

Saint Leo, Florida

 

Website

Saint Leo University offers students this Online Master of Education in Instructional Leadership with Reading degree. This degree program is designed to teach students the leadership qualities needed for leadership roles within education systems. Students will also work to develop the skills needed to create programs that help improve children’s literacy. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Saint Leo University with accreditation for this degree. Those who have completed this degree have gone on to have careers as reading specialists, teacher mentors, school program leaders, and more.

Tuition: $18,360

Score: 94.5

#31. Concordia University Wisconsin

Online Master of Science in Education – Literacy – Reading Teacher or Reading Specialist Licensure

Mequon, Wisconsin

 

Website

This Online Master of Science in Education – Literacy – Reading Teacher or Reading Specialist Licensure program is made available by Concordia University Wisconsin. By pursuing this degree program, students will learn how to become literacy specialists to help promote reading and writing skills in children. This program also offers students the opportunity for licensure in the state of Wisconsin. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program. Concordia University Wisconsin has received accreditation for this degree from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition: $18,900

Score: 94.25

#32. West Virginia University

Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education

Morgantown, West Virginia

 

Website

Students enrolled at West Virginia University can enroll in this Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education with Certification degree. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this program. West Virginia University estimates that students will be able to complete this program in about two years. The Higher Learning Commission has provided West Virginia University with accreditation for this program. Courses in this study include Knowledge of Literacy Instruction, Specialized Literacy Professionals, Motivation and Engagement in Literacy Learning, and more. This degree is a great option for those wanting a career as a literacy specialist or teacher.

Tuition: $18,900

Score: 94

#33. East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

Online Master of Science in Reading Education

East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

 

Website

East Stroudsburg University offers this Online Master of Science in Reading Education degree to its students. This program of study is offered to students entirely online. Through the completion of this degree, students will also earn a Pennsylvania Reading Specialist Certification. If taken full-time, students can expect to complete this program in as quickly as one year. A total of 36 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation has provided East Stroudsburg University with accreditation for this study program.

Tuition: $18,936

Score: 93.75

#34. University of Maine

Online Master of Education in Literacy: Individualized (Writing and the Teaching of Writing)

Orono, Maine

 

Website

Students at the University of Maine can enroll in this Online Master of Education in Literacy: Individualized (Writing and the Teaching of Writing) degree entirely online. This program of study requires a total of 33 credit hours to complete. This online degree program is designed to teach students how to help others develop their skills in writing. Courses in this program include Writing and the Teaching of Writing, Developing Online Learning Experiences, Institute in Teacher Leadership, and more. This study program is a great option for students who want to tackle literacy from a slightly different angle.

Tuition: $19,008

Score: 93.5

#35. Western Kentucky University

Online Master of Arts in Education in Literacy Education

Bowling Green, Kentucky

 

Website

Western Kentucky University offers students this Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education degree. This study program is made available to students entirely online and does not require any visits to the Western Kentucky University campus to complete. A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission has provided Western Kentucky University with accreditation for this study program. Some of the courses offered by this degree include Literacy Development and Instruction, Content Area and Disciplinary Literacy, Clinical Diagnosis of Reading Variability, and more.

Tuition: $18,360

Score: 94.5

You may also like:

This concludes our ranking of the top online master’s in reading and literacy programs.

NPCO Staff