Online Master’s Degree in Reading & Literacy

Why Pursue a Master’s Degree in Reading and Literacy?

According to 2017 data from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation, more than 700 million adults, and 9% of individuals between ages 15 and 24, cannot read. In 2018, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund classified more than 100 million children worldwide as illiterate.

These numbers are much lower than statistics from previous generations, indicating that literacy initiatives have become a high global priority. Still, millions of people remain illiterate. An online master’s in reading and literacy prepares graduates to empower students through reading education.

Although online reading master’s programs vary in structure and focus, most entail similar curricular requirements. Students often take courses related to reading instruction and diagnosis, teacher and student behavior, curriculum creation, literacy research, and classroom management. Programs may require a practicum or thesis, and some encourage students to focus their studies on a particular age group, such as adult learners or elementary students.

Earning a master’s in reading online may enable practicing teachers to expand their professional possibilities, while non-teachers may enroll to change career direction. Candidates intending to teach should research their state’s licensure and certification requirements before selecting an online reading master’s program.

Choosing a Master’s in Reading and Literacy Program

Cost is one of the most important concerns when selecting an online master’s program. Private colleges often charge more than public schools, so students seeking lower tuition should explore public options. In-state students often pay lower tuition than out-of-state students, but many schools charge in-state tuition to online learners, regardless of where they live.

Learners should also consider the length of an online literacy master’s program. Some degrees require students to complete more credits than others, and course delivery methods vary. Cohort programs require groups of students to complete coursework on a rigid schedule. For students seeking more flexibility, an individually paced program may be a better fit.

Students seeking an online master’s degree in reading and literacy should also keep in mind the difference between online and hybrid programs. Although fully online programs may necessitate in-person practicums or field experiences, they do not require students to attend classes on campus. Hybrid programs allow students to take some classes remotely but mandate on-campus coursework as well.

Some graduates become teachers after earning a master’s in reading and literacy. Students with this career goal should consider their state’s teaching requirements and take the necessary steps to qualify for licensure. These students should also choose a program with programmatic accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Students should consider specific program benefits when selecting a school. A degree seeker interested in adult literacy may choose a college or university which offers that emphasis. The availability of optional certifications in topics such as literacy coaching or literacy intervention may also impact school selection. These supplementary credentials may strengthen a graduate’s understanding of a specific aspect of the literacy field.

Types of Reading and Literacy Degrees

Online master’s degrees in reading and literacy typically require between 30 and 40 credits, or approximately two years of coursework.

While some online master’s in reading programs prepare graduates to assist young and adolescent learners, others prepare them for adult literacy settings. Degree seekers generally complete coursework specific to the age group with which they plan to work.

Many programs train practicing teachers in reading education, while others cater to candidates without teaching experience. Some programs lead to licensure or certification, while others do not. Other components which differ between programs include practicum and thesis requirements.

Entry Requirements

Admission requirements differ among schools but frequently include an accredited bachelor’s degree in any field, minimum GPA requirements, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Other common components include a candidate’s resume, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores. Programs may also request an academic writing sample.

Degrees structured for practicing teachers typically require applicants to hold licensure or certification. These programs may expect candidates to take national or state-specific teaching exams. Some schools also mandate proof of teaching experience.

Directory of Accredited Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs

Master’s in Reading and Literacy Licensure and Certifications

Because state licensure policies vary, students who wish to teach should select a program which fulfills their state’s requirements. Common licensure requirements include passing a state-specific teaching exam, or a more general test such as the Praxis, and classroom experience. States may require candidates to pass a field-specific assessment for each subject they intend to teach.

Reciprocity agreements exist between states but do not guarantee licensure for educators who change location. These agreements allow licensed teachers to apply for licensure in their new state. State licensure boards may request that the applicant complete steps such as taking an exam or acquiring additional classroom experience. Only six states offer full reciprocity without additional experience: Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Mississippi, Missouri, and Nevada.

Many reading and literacy professionals pursue voluntary certifications which demonstrate specialized expertise. These credentials may broaden career options and increase earning potential. Educators may earn national board certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards as a supplementary credential to state licensure. Learners may also obtain a reading specialist certification. The International Dyslexia Association and Center for Effective Reading Instruction also offer certifications.

Unlicensed aspiring teachers may become educators by alternative routes. Organizations such as Teach for America and the New Teacher Project do not require applicants to hold licensure, but they may call for post-acceptance training. Students without teaching credentials may choose a graduate program which leads to certification or licensure.

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

Literacy professionals work in classroom and office settings. Career options for a master’s in reading and literacy include teaching, assisting students within multiple schools, and coordinating curricula. Degree holders may help young, adolescent, or adult learners improve their reading skills.

How Much Money Does a Reading Specialist Make?

Paying for Your Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Degree

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 2015-2016 tuition rates for nonprofit institutions ran as high as $40,670. Students may pay these costs out of pocket through school-specific payment plans. Payment schedules depend on school calendars, but learners may expect to make monthly payments. If degree seekers cannot manage such monthly expenses, they may seek financial assistance to cover education costs.

Resources for Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Students

• Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) RIF encourages children to read by offering programs such as Books for Ownership and Read for Success. The organization also provides an information hub and Literacy Central, which gives educators, parents, and volunteers details about upcoming activities and tips for improving reading skills.
• Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy This organization improves literacy by involving families in the learning process. Programs include Teen Trendsetters, which allows teenagers to assist younger children who struggle with reading. The foundation also presents events under the Celebration of Reading title to promote specific literacy areas.
• National Center on Improving Literacy (NCIL) NCIL’s primary focus is assisting those with reading challenges, such as dyslexia. This organization provides information about upcoming literacy events by organizations including the Council for Learning Disabilities and the International Dyslexia Association. NCIL also offers literacy improvement tips to parents, schools, and agencies.
• ProLiteracy This group focuses specifically on adult literacy. Programs include Expanding Access to Adult Literacy, which encourages social service organizations to offer reading assistance, and the National Book Fund, which helps literacy organizations obtain books.
• Reach Out and Read Children ages five and under are this group’s main focus. Reach Out and Read provides free books to young children and encourages families to interact through reading. Resources include book selection tips and materials for starting a new Reach Out and Read program.