The Best Online Master's in Reading Education Programs
Updated October 24, 2023
Becoming a Reading Specialist with a Master's Program
Online master's in reading programs help teachers specialize their skills and advance their careers by emphasizing leadership, assessment, and organization within classrooms. Graduates can advance their careers as teachers or pursue other educational roles in areas like curriculum development.
For example, these online reading programs may qualify graduates for instructional coordinator positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that instructional coordinators earn a median annual salary of $66,490 and projects jobs for these professionals to grow 2% between 2022-2032.
This guide ranks the top online master's in reading teacher education programs in the country. It also covers other important information for prospective students, such as common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
What Is an Online Master's in Reading Degree?
Online master's in reading programs explore literacy development concepts and teaching techniques. Candidates learn efficient teaching strategies and how to adapt lesson plans for students with different learning needs. Programs may also address special education and culturally diverse learners to prepare for inclusive classrooms.
Degree-seekers develop communication skills and learn to work in teams so that they can effectively engage with parents, students, faculty, and administrators. Online reading programs also give students leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills. Some programs may require current teaching certification for admission.
Choosing an Online Program
Students should consider several factors when researching prospective online master's in reading programs, such as cost, available concentrations, and delivery format. For instance, working professionals may prefer the flexibility of asynchronous programs, which do not require set login times.
Featured Master's in Reading Education Degree
The Best Online Master's in Reading Programs 2022
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Gainesville-based University of Florida enrolls students in its top-ranked online master's in reading and literacy education program. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Master's graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum explores reading research and methodologies. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in reading or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 42
Program Name: Master's in reading and literacy education
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
#2 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tampa-based University of South Florida-Main Campus hosts a top-rated online master of arts in reading education. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in reading education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a degree in reading or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of South Florida-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of arts in reading education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
#3 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in reading can earn their degree from The University of West Florida, located in Pensacola. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in reading. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a background in reading may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Online degree-seekers work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 31%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master's in reading
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166
#4 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clemson University, located in Clemson, South Carolina, offers a flexible online master's in literacy. The program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Master's degree-holders can advance their current career or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in literacy. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in reading or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Clemson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master's in literacy
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,050
#5 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania hosts a top-rated online master of education in elementary education K-12 reading. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to reading. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in reading typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of education in elementary education K-12 reading
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,288
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,932
#6 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Statesboro, Georgia Southern University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master's in reading education program. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Master's graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a reading background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online learners work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master's in reading education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
#7 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Carrollton, University of West Georgia offers an online master of education with a major in reading instruction. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in reading. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in reading may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Online students work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of education with a major in reading instruction
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,830
#8 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in reading, language, and literacy education at Georgia State University, located in Atlanta, offers a flexible online format. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in reading before applying.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Georgia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in reading, language, and literacy education
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,164
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,662
#9 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lubbock, Texas Tech University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master's in language and literacy program. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Master's degree-holders can advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with prior experience in reading or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with local internships. These experiences and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master's in language and literacy
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,958
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,428
#10 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in reading education can earn their degree from University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in reading or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete local internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master's in reading education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,337
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,771
#11 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in reading at Minnesota State University-Mankato prioritizes flexibility. The program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in reading typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Minnesota State University-Mankato at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in reading
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,694
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,694
#12 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in literacy education program at University of Northern Iowa, located in Cedar Falls, offers a flexible online format. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Master's graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants with a background in reading typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at local locations. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Northern Iowa at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master's in literacy education
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,159
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,375
#13 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of education - reading specialist endorsement at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, prioritizes flexibility. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's degree-holders can advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in reading typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of education - reading specialist endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#14 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Marquette, Northern Michigan University hosts a top-ranked master's in reading K-8 program. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the reading field and related industries. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a degree in reading or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Northern Michigan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 66%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in reading K-8
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,072
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,528
#15 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
SUNY at Albany
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY at Albany, located in Albany, New York, offers a flexible online master of science in reading. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of reading. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in reading.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
SUNY at Albany at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of science in reading
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
#16 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Glassboro, New Jersey, Rowan University hosts a top-rated online master's in reading education. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in reading. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in reading or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Rowan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in reading education
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,879
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,879
#17 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
Jonesboro, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of science in education in reading, offered by Arkansas State University-Main Campus in Jonesboro, ranks as a top program. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants with a background in reading typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Arkansas State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of science in education in reading
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,986
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,972
#18 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, Olivet Nazarene University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master of arts in education: reading specialist and reading teacher endorsement program. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in reading. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program builds on prior reading experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Olivet Nazarene University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of arts in education: reading specialist and reading teacher endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,420
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,420
#19 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online reading degree can enroll in the master's in literacy program at Concordia University-Wisconsin, located in Mequon. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Master's degree-holders can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on reading. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program recommends a background in reading before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Concordia University-Wisconsin at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master's in literacy
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,052
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,052
#20 The Best Online Master’s in Reading Education Programs
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of arts in reading and literacy education at East Carolina University, located in Greenville, North Carolina, offers a flexible online format. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of reading. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in reading before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete local internships to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program Name: Master of arts in reading and literacy education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
Online Master's in Reading Teacher Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What to Expect From a Master's in Reading Program?
Online master's in reading programs include coursework in literacy development and assessment, as well as research and teaching strategies for reading education. Programs may also explore second language acquisition, cultural diversity, and teaching students of different age groups. Additionally, many programs include practicums, giving students field experience.
Reading Curriculum
Comprehension Strategies
These courses present techniques for helping students understand written materials. Courses may explore types of writing, such as narratives and technical pieces, and factors that influence meaning, like paragraph format, vocabulary, perspective, and context. Degree-seekers may also study different reading modes, including oral and silent reading.
Teaching Literacy
These classes cover literacy concepts, like phonics and word recognition, and introduce teaching strategies that reflect current research and theories. Students learn how to assess learning needs and create teaching plans that cater to specific classrooms and learners. Courses may also incorporate state regulations on reading education or focus on age groups, such as elementary or secondary students.
Classroom Management
This course addresses classroom organization and management. Candidates learn to build productive environments for students and encourage learning through lesson plans and motivational tactics. Learners may also study psychological and behavioral issues that may arise in classrooms.
Education Careers
Master's-level online reading programs can lead to a variety of education-related careers. For instance, graduates can teach postsecondary courses in reading education or work as reading coaches or specialists. They may also research and write scholarly articles or textbooks on reading education or work as recreation workers or social and community service managers. The following list outlines several other common careers for graduates.
Instructional Coordinators
| Median Salary: $66,490 | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 2% |
|---|
Instructional coordinators make curriculum decisions for school systems, creating learning materials and suggesting teaching techniques and textbooks. They may review testing data and consult teachers on student performance to determine areas for improvement. They also offer faculty training and guidance for introducing new techniques and curricula into classrooms.
These positions require a master's in education, instruction, or a related field. These professionals may also need teaching certification and professional experience. Instructional coordinators need strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
High School Teachers
| Median Salary: $62,360 | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 1% |
|---|
High school teachers create lesson plans and teach courses to help learners prepare for state tests and life after graduation. They must assess student needs and adjust lesson plans when necessary, discuss student progress with parents, give feedback on course assignments, and set classroom rules.
High school teachers usually need at least a bachelor's degree and teaching certification. Some jobs may require a master's degree. These professionals need patience, strong communication skills, and adaptability.
Adult Literacy Teachers
| Median Salary: $58,590 | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): -13% |
|---|
These teachers help adults prepare for high school equivalency diploma tests and develop skills and knowledge for professional success. They may emphasize job search strategies and study skills or help adults improve their reading skills. They must assess student needs and keep track of learners' progress. These professionals may also connect students with local resources.
Adult literacy teachers need at least a bachelor's degree, but a master's degree gives them a competitive edge in the job market. Public schools may also require teaching certification. These professionals must know how to guide culturally diverse groups with patience and clear communication.
Questions About Master's in Reading Programs
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master's in Reading Program?
Graduation times vary by program, but these online reading programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Reading?
Graduates can become instructional coordinators, who help school systems shape reading curricula, or they can help learners advance their reading skills as reading teachers or literary coaches.
How Much Do You Make in Education?
Salaries vary by location, role, and experience, but reading education professionals often make more than $55,000 per year. For instance, reading specialists earn a median annual salary of $56,942, but candidates with at least 20 years of experience average more than $58,000.
What Is Reading Education?
Reading education programs explore literacy development theories and strategies for helping students interpret reading material.
What Is a Master's in Reading?
A master's in reading prepares degree-seekers to assess students' literacy needs and develop complementary learning plans. These programs emphasize literacy development and frequently include coursework in classroom management and leadership.
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