By TED Staff
September 2021
If you have been thinking about earning your master’s degree in reading and literacy, then you are not alone. Reading specialists work with struggling readers in one-on-one or small group settings, and they are more important than ever.
That’s why Top Education Degrees went on the search for the best reading specialist/reading and literacy master’s degrees that can be earned online.
To come up with our ranking, we began by compiling a list of all accredited universities that offer this degree in an online or distance education format. We then used the following points-based system to determine the 30 best.
Annual Graduate Tuition Rate (In-State):
- Under $50,000: 1 point
- Under $40,000: 2 points
- Under $30,000: 3 points
- Under $20,000: 4 points
- Under $10,000: 5 points
U.S. News & World Report Online Graduate Education Ranking:
- Top 5: 5 points
- Top 10: 4 points
- Top 20: 3 points
- Top 50: 2 points
- Top 100: 1 point
NCATE Graduate Program Accreditation:
- 3 points
Regional Accreditation:
- 5 points
#30. University of Texas at Tyler
Online Master of Education in Reading
Tyler, Texas
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,468
Points: 10
To enter the online Master of Education in Reading program at the University of Texas at Tyler, you must have a valid, field-optional, teacher certificate. Also, you must have clear evidence of your entire teaching record. The last stage is a required interview via Zoom conferencing software. For the University of Texas-Tyler MEd in reading, the school suggests completion of the online degree in two years. A GRE score is required as part of the admission process but may be waived if the applicant has a GPA of over 3.250, for example.
#29. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Online Master of Education in Elementary Education: K-12 Reading Specialist
Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,288
Points: 10
Exclusively online, the master’s degree program in elementary education K12 reading specialist at Slippery Rock University features smaller classes and has flexible options from hybrid to fully online study and training. To apply, submit evidence of certification, one professional and one faculty recommendation, and transcripts of all previous college coursework. Once you graduate from Slippery Rock University with your online MEd in elementary education K12 reading specialist degree, you will be prepared for certification as a K-12 reading specialist and endorsed for instructional coaching in the state of Pennsylvania.
#28. Nova Southeastern University
Online Master of Science in Education in Reading Education
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Annual In-State Tuition: $20,618
Points: 11
Entrance into Nova Southeastern University’s online Master of Science in Education with a specialization in reading education requires applicants to have at least a 2.5 undergraduate GPA and submit all college transcripts. The site shows how supervised professional experience is the program’s goal for students, detailing how a thorough practical application experience can best prepare future teachers. This process of Nova Southeastern University’s online MS in education with a specialization in reading education can most effectively be administered with a balance of a thorough lit review with curriculum design and measurement.
#27. Wright State University
Online Master of Education in Literacy
Dayton, Ohio
Annual In-State Tuition: $14,298
Points: 12
The Wright State University online Master of Education in Literacy is 30 credit hours with 12 hours of “reading core” prerequisites required. The site focuses on those that are already teaching and are ready to update and improve knowledge in the areas of literacy and its related teaching methods. To be considered for admission to Wright State University’s MEd in literacy online program, you will need to have a completed bachelor’s with at least a 3.0 GPA, and you will need to be currently licensed to teach in Ohio.
#26. Jackson State University
Online Master of Science in Reading Education 
Jackson, Mississippi
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,270
Points: 13
Jackson State University runs an accelerated online master of science in reading education made up of eight-week sessions that will sharpen your skills in data collection and “action research.” Courses that most must take include elementary statistics, a research methods course, and foundations of literacy. To be accepted into the Jackson State University MS in Reading Education Online program, you will need to have a class A Educator’s License, a bachelor’s degree in education with a 2.5 GPA, and passing scores on Praxis II.
#25. Notre Dame College
Online Master of Education with Reading Endorsement
Cleveland, Ohio
Annual In-State Tuition: $7,200
Points: 13
To complete the Notre Dame College’s online master of education with an endorsement in reading degree, you will need to complete 15 common core course credits, 18 hours of reading content, and perform 6 hours of research. The latter is a capstone that can either do the Action Research four-week methodology, research, and data presentation. The other capstone option I-Search, which is designed for graduate students with less recent teaching experience. Notre Dame College MEd with an Endorsement in Reading Online is 39 hours, with courses that run 8 weeks, takes about 3 years to complete, and accepts transfers of no more than six credits from other institutions.
#24. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Reading 
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Annual In-State Tuition: $5,738
Points: 13
Northwestern State University of Louisiana master of education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in reading is fully online via web or compressed video. You may choose to concentrate among the following: Professional Teaching Standards, School Librarian, and Transition to Teaching. If you are not in the Pelican State, you will need to determine how studying in Louisiana pertains to certification of your choice for the Northwestern State University of Louisiana online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in reading.
#23. Western Kentucky University
Online Master of Arts in Education in Literacy Education 
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Annual In-State Tuition: $12,140
Points: 14
Western Kentucky University’s master of arts in education in literacy education is an online 30 hour program that has these primary components: professionalized education; specialization; restricted electives; and a thesis (or non-thesis, if necessary). The program is open to certified teachers only. Applications are expected to include significant test scores, with a minimum 3.5 on the written GRE and 139 on the Verbal and Quantitative. If you have a 3.5 GPA and a valid teaching degree, no scores will be necessary. Applicants will need to provide a professional portfolio to get into the Western Kentucky University online MAE in Literacy Education.
#22. Old Dominion University
Online Master of Science in Education in Reading
Norfolk, Virginia
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,207
Points: 14
The Old Dominion University 30-credit master’s degree in reading education takes students about 3-4 semesters to complete online. The program has in mind the value of practical methodology application by current practitioners. As a distance-friendly institution, course materials are covered and disseminated in asynchronous as well as more traditionally. While completing your Old Dominion University master’s degree in reading education online degree, you will be carefully supervised performing a practicum in your school. The site especially emphasizes “linguistic and cultural diversity.”
#21. University of South Florida
Online Master of Arts in Reading Education
Tampa, Florida
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,350
Points: 14
The University of South Florida’s online MA in Reading Education is a 36 credit hour program. It offers two plans, one for certified teachers and one for those working outside the K-12 environment. The program can be taken at full or part-time status. Entry to the University of South Florida MA in literacy studies online requires two letters of recommendation, a resume and a statement of purpose are required for application to either plan. The school makes available three admit dates per year.
#20. East Carolina University
Online Master of Arts in Education in Reading Education
Greenville, North Carolina
Annual In-State Tuition: $4,749
Points: 14
Training teachers since 1907, East Carolina University online master of arts in education in reading education is a 30-hour program through which you could find yourself prepared to assess literacy and apply practical support. The site focuses on the fairly high expectations of a professional career after finishing. Also notable is the affordability of the East Carolina University MAE in reading education online program that follows standards of professional groups such as the North Carolina Digital Learning Competencies.
#19. Central Michigan University
Online Master of Arts in Reading and Literacy K-12
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Annual In-State Tuition: $14,223
Points: 15
The 36 credit Central Michigan University master of arts in reading and literacy online degree includes a clinical practicum that is designed to train you for more than a position: by graduation you should be able to apply your developed skills to not only address literacy problems on an individual level but also perform research and organize literacy programs more broadly. The coursework for the Central Michigan University online MA in reading and literacy that provides the basis for practicums runs from advanced educational psychology to word study.
#18. University of North Dakota
Online Master of Science or Master of Education in Reading Education
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Annual In-State Tuition: $11,060
Points: 15
The University of North Dakota master of science or master of education in literacy education is comprised of 32 hours and takes 2+ years to complete. Which happens when you finish either self-directed study or a “scholarly project.” The online MS is for classroom teachers, and the MEd is intended for instructional specialists, by and large. In or out of state, tuition is the same at the University of North Dakota online MS or MEd in literacy education, which continues to be among the top highly-ranked affordable programs in this area.
#17. West Virginia University
Online Master of Arts in Literacy Education 
Morgantown, West Virginia
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,134
Points: 15
The West Virginia University master of arts in literacy education offers 8 week classes and other flexible options to complete the 30 hours. Graduates are expected to be prepared for Reading Specialist certification, for pre-K children through adult learners. The West Virginia University Online MA in literacy education does not charge out of state fees. Estimated duration is two years, including one summer term. The applied, practical experience available at the university includes both an intervention practicum and introductory coaching in literacy.
#16. University of Kansas
Online Master of Science in Education – Reading Specialist Licensure Track
Lawrence, Kansas
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,989
Points: 15
The University of Kansas master’s in reading education online has three primary tracks: Reading Specialist Licensure, the non-licensure version, and Reading Specialist Licensure Endorsement. The main page points to how valuable it is to establish early literacy, and the program at NCATE/CAEP has shaped coursework and practical experience to heighten the skills of graduate students and to measure and improve graduate students in the University of Kansas online master’s in reading education.
#15. University of Georgia
Online Master of Education in Reading Education 
Athens, Georgia
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,878
Points: 15
The University of Georgia has a 36-credit online master of education in reading education that runs a cohort model to enhance the sense of class cohesion. The school is internationally recognized as a research institution and center of literacy education study. If you need to transfer, the school accepts up to 9 relevant hours from elsewhere. To apply to the University of Georgia MEd in reading education online, you will need to have a memorable statement of why you want graduate study at this university, three letters of reference, a CV, transcripts, and recent test scores–GRE or MAT.
#14. Concordia University Nebraska
Online Master of Education in Literacy
Seward, Nebraska
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,650
Points: 15
Using a cohort system, the Concordia University Nebraska online master of education in literacy and English as a Second Language places emphasis on the flexibility of graduates who can find themselves prepared for elementary or secondary design and instruction techniques. Elsewhere the college touts its “hassle-free master’s degree,” which refers to the relative ease of registration, which has a full staff to aid you. Also, you do not need to take the GMAT or GRE tests for admission to the Concordia University Nebraska MEd in literacy and ESL online, and you can design your own blend online and on-campus study.
#13. Black Hills State University
Online Master of Education in Reading 
Spearfish, South Dakota
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,384
Points: 15
The Black Hills State University online master of education in reading is a 35 hour online degree. The program has specialized as the K-12 Reading Specialist, which can be done fully online. Clinical practice is the primary method for preparing you for the expectations of employment in positions of support such as the reading specialist, with a goal of being a resource for the teacher and learning communities. If you are a teacher seeking a reading designation specialist certificate, you can increase your proficiency and earning power with the Black Hills State University online MEd in reading.
#12. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Online Master of Arts in Education in Reading Education
Birmingham, Alabama
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,100
Points: 15
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Master’s in Reading Education online is designed with the working teacher in mind. If you prefer, you can study only for certification; the process is quite similar, including the 33-36 hours that are completely online. To get in to the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s online master’s in reading education program, you will need to decide which path you prefer: Education Specialist; Traditional Master’s; Alternative Master’s; Doctoral, or the afore-mentioned Certificate option.
#11. Liberty University
Online Master of Education with an Endorsement in Reading Specialist
Lynchburg, Virginia
Annual In-State Tuition: $7,935
Points: 15
The 36 credit Liberty University master of education in reading specialist online is completed by students in an average of eighteen months. The program runs on eight week course schedules and up to eighteen hours of course credit may be transferred from other institutions of higher learning. Liberty University’s online MEd in reading specialist is intended for already licensed teachers seeking further specialization in their skills. The program is looking for applicants who can offer an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better and a $50 application fee to be accepted in good standing.
#10. Arkansas State University
Online Master of Science in Education in Reading 
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Annual In-State Tuition: $4,986
Points: 15
The site for the Arkansas State University master of science in education in reading online emphasizes preparation for licensure in the 30 hours duration degree. At this university, you will also have the chance to be part of the Arkansas Delta Writing Project, where crucial clinical experience can be accrued. It is recommended that students are familiar with literacy standards as outlined in the International Literacy Association. Positions likely for graduates of the Arkansas State University Online MSE in Reading include literacy coach, intervention specialist, and, more broadly, working on the regional level.
#9. Northeastern State University
Online Master of Education in Reading 
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Annual In-State Tuition: $4,500
Points: 15
The Northeastern State University online master of education in reading pays special attention to the skill of assessment. The site notes that more than half the student body has transferred credits, which has prepared the administration for the particular needs among non-traditional student needs. What makes up the degree includes coursework in 6 hours of “Professional Education,” 20 hours of “Specialized Reading,” 3 hours of “Enrichment,” and a Capstone collaborative work. Suggested likely positions that may be available upon graduation from the Northeastern State University MEd in reading online include reading consultants and supervisors, classroom teachers, and reading teachers.
#8. Western New Mexico University
Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Reading Education
Silver City, New Mexico
Annual In-State Tuition: $3,558
Points: 15
The Western New Mexico University online master of arts in teaching in reading education directs the courses and designs practicum content and approach in accordance with the standards of New Mexico’s Teaching Competencies. Student teaching options in the Western New Mexico University online MAT in reading education include the MAT in Initial Licensure, which is the conventional path; the MAT Specialization path for those already teaching, and the MAT in Alternative Licensure, which can help those who have not yet taken full undergraduate education coursework.
#7. Bowling Green State University
Online Master of Education in Reading incl. Ohio Reading Endorsement
Bowling Green, Ohio
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,017
Points: 16
The Bowling Green State University master of education in reading online program is organized into three phases. The first is the Endorsement Program, which is the theoretical and preparatory period for the eventual practicum. Next, in the Tools for Engagement phase, you will do the practicum work to develop your hands-on literacy assessment skills. The third phase is where you train for reading specialist and literacy coach positions more specifically. To apply to the Bowling Green State University online MEd in reading, submit $45 and your online Graduate College application, including transcripts and test scores
#6. Georgia Southern University
Online Master of Education in Reading Education
Statesboro, Georgia
Annual In-State Tuition: $4,986
Points: 16
Georgia Southern University offers a 36-credit master of education in reading education online. To get in, you must have a valid bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 2.50 GPA, proof of at least a level four certification, an experience level of three years, and you must compose a purpose statement regarding your motivations and aspirations for entering the program. Once you graduate from the Georgia Southern University Online MEd in Reading Education and pass the GACE Reading Content Assessment, you can be certified to teach literacy.
#5. Ball State University
Online Master of Arts in Education with a Concentration in Reading/Literacy
Muncie, Indiana
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,328
Points: 17
Ball State University online master of arts in education with a focus in reading-literacy instruction is regularly featured in the best online programs of its kind. Founded as a teacher’s college, the university has obviously grown and developed as demand for qualified educators has grown and flexibility has become a preferred qualification–for example, you can take briefer selection for your content training needs. Ball State University’s MAE with a focus in reading-literacy instruction features areas of concentration including: autism; educational technology; human development, and response to intervention, and more. Note that this program does not lead to a teaching license.
#4. Sam Houston State University
Online Master of Education in Reading/Language Arts
Huntsville, Texas
Annual In-State Tuition: $5,765
Points: 17
Student advocacy and proactive instruction are two values at the heart of the Sam Houston State University online master of education in reading/language arts. To apply you will need to supply a writing sample that clarifies your goals as a future professional, demonstrate your undergraduate degree with a transcript with a no lower than 2.8 GPA. For 36 credits, you emerge well-prepared to be certified as a Texas Reading Specialist by the Sam Houston State University MEd in Reading/Language Arts Online.
#3. SUNY at Albany
Online Master of Science in Literacy
Albany, New York
Annual In-State Tuition: $11,310
Points: 18
The State University of New York Albany MS in Literacy Online is a 36 credit affair that can be finished in about two years. The school has built up a consistent reputation for online study, particularly graduate education. If you assume you will be certified professional, do not forget to notify the school to get a recommendation. The site for the State University of New York Albany master of science in literacy features typical salaries of middle school and elementary teachers that in Albany pay from $60-$63k per year. If you choose, instead, to be a literacy coach in the same area, you can make up to $71K.
#2. University of Florida
Online Master of Education or Master of Arts in Education in Reading
Gainesville, Florida
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,770
Points: 19
Among the most highly ranked among online education programs, the University of Florida has continued to develop and strengthen the online offerings that parallel in-person class experience and support–including the master of education or master of arts in education in reading education. If you must specialize, then the breadth of choice is impressive: from educational technology to ESOL to teachers, schools, and society. The MEd has similar options, though with distinctions such as Teacher Leadership for School Improvement and Alternative Elementary Education Certification. Thoroughly considered and parallel to the live experience, the 36-credit online degree at the University of Florida MEd or MAE in reading education merits regular inclusion on various best-of lists.
#1. Clemson University
Online Master of Education in Literacy
Clemson, South Carolina
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,600
Points: 19
Clemson University’s master of education in literacy online is a 36-credit program that expects incoming students to have certifications, significant teaching experience, a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, and specific requirements depending on which path you choose. If you seek teaching students that speak other languages, you can get licensed at the school. You can also achieve further licensure, including literacy coaching. A great range in paths and licensure are available for you in Clemson University’s online MEd in Literacy, among the more affordable graduate programs.
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