Online master’s programs in reading and literacy provide teachers and education professionals with advanced knowledge in teaching reading, assessing literacy, and supporting diverse learners. These programs cover essential topics such as literacy development, instructional strategies, curriculum design, assessment techniques, and leadership in education.
Many programs also include hands-on practicum experiences, allowing students to apply what they learn directly in classroom settings or virtual teaching environments. Finding a high-quality program is important because it ensures you gain current, evidence-based skills, access experienced faculty, and receive proper guidance for professional growth. The right program can prepare you for roles such as reading specialist, literacy coach, curriculum developer, or instructional leader.
In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten online master’s programs in reading and literacy, based on respected rankings and verified program details. Each program has been carefully reviewed to highlight its unique strengths, flexibility, and the opportunities it offers to help you advance your career in literacy education.
Best Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy Programs
1. University of Florida
The University of Florida offers both a Master of Education and a Master of Arts in Education in reading and literacy. These online programs are nationally accredited and geared for PreK‑12 teachers who wish to enhance literacy instruction.
Students learn evidence‑based practices, literacy assessment strategies, digital media usage, and how to support all learners in reading development. Coursework covers reading theory, instructional planning, assessment, and literacy leadership in digital formats.
Graduates emerge ready to design literacy programs, coach colleagues, and lead efforts to improve student literacy outcomes.
2. University of Georgia
The University of Georgia’s online Master of Education in Reading Education is a 100% online program designed for certified teachers and literacy professionals. It emphasizes new and digital literacies as well as traditional reading development from pre‑K through grade 12.
Students complete 36 credit hours, including research‑based literacy instruction, digital media studies, and cultural foundations of literacy. The program supports endorsement or certification upgrades, depending on state licensure policy.
Graduates develop strong portfolios, understand current literacy research, and gain leadership skills in the literacy field.
3. Clemson University
Clemson University’s 100% online Master of Education in Literacy is designed for PK‑12 educators who want to deepen literacy instruction or assume leadership roles. The 30‑credit hour program includes certification options as Literacy Teacher, Literacy Coach, or ESOL specialist.
Coursework emphasizes evidence‑based literacy strategies, curriculum development, assessment, and instructional leadership. Field‑based assignments allow students to apply their learning in actual educational settings.
Graduates leave prepared to plan literacy programs, support diverse learners, and assume positions that lead school‑or district‑wide literacy efforts.
4. Old Dominion University (Norfolk, VA)
Old Dominion’s online M.S.Ed. in Reading is crafted for teachers and literacy professionals who want to deepen their skills without classroom time on campus.
The program is fully online, includes a supervised practicum where you tutor children and diagnose reading problems, and is designed for those seeking roles such as literacy coach or reading specialist.
Students complete about 30 credit hours and can work based on a schedule that fits their professional life. Through the program, you’ll learn assessment strategies, how to develop reading programs, and ways to lead in literacy education.
5. Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA)
VCU’s fully online Master of Education in Reading helps experienced teachers aim for reading specialist roles across preschool to adult levels. The program focuses on diagnostic and developmental processes of literacy, supervision of reading programs, and instructional leadership.
Admission typically requires licensed educators with experience; the program aligns with Virginia’s reading specialist endorsement. Graduates leave prepared to guide literacy efforts, support teacher development, and enhance reading outcomes for diverse learners.
6. University of North Dakota (Grand Forks, ND)
UND’s online Reading Education program offers both M.Ed. and M.S. tracks, focused on literacy specialists, coaches, or curriculum developers. The program emphasizes evidence‑based practices, assessment of reading difficulties, data‑driven decisions, and digital tools for teaching reading.
All coursework is 100 % online, live or asynchronous, with supervised practicum work built in. Graduates may move into roles supporting reading program design, differentiated intervention, and leadership in literacy instruction.
7. University of South Florida (Tampa)
USF’s online Master of Arts in Reading Education is designed for educators wanting to specialize in literacy coaching, leadership, or intervention. The curriculum combines the science of reading with digital and media literacies, allowing students to develop skills in technology, video, and educational gaming in literacy contexts.
You may complete it in one year full‑time or 2–2.5 years part‑time. The program meets Florida’s K‑12 Reading Endorsement requirements for many educators and focuses on real‑world literacy practice and leadership.
8. University of Virginia (Online)
UVA’s online M.Ed. in Reading Education prepares literacy leaders to work across elementary to adult education settings with evidence‑based reading instruction. Students complete 30 credit hours and may finish full‑time in 1 year or part‑time up to 3.5 years. The curriculum focuses on science‑based reading instruction, diagnosis and remediation, and literacy leadership.
The program is approved for Virginia’s K‑12 reading specialist endorsement and supports educators taking reading leadership roles.
9. Florida International University (Miami, FL)
Florida International University’s literacy‑related programs let certified teachers deepen their understanding of reading and writing development while working full‑time. The curriculum emphasizes digital literacy, diverse learner populations, and bilingual or multilingual settings common in Miami.
The program includes online lessons in assessment of reading difficulties, designing interventions, and using technology to support literacy. Students get to work on real‑world classroom scenarios virtually and build portfolios of work they can show employers.
In a place like South Florida, graduates may find roles as literacy coaches, reading specialists, or instructional leaders supporting diverse and multilingual student bodies.
10. Florida Atlantic University (Boca Raton, FL)
Florida Atlantic University offers an M.Ed. in Reading Education designed for certified teachers seeking advanced credentials and reading specialist certification. The 36‑credit program covers developmental reading, reading diagnosis, remedial reading instruction, and trends in literacy education.
Students choose electives that match their interests and complete practicum experiences to apply theory in real classrooms. The online format makes it accessible for working teachers, and the program addresses the needs of learners at all grade levels, including middle and secondary schools.
Graduates leave ready to lead reading programs, support struggling readers, and help teachers adopt best practices in literacy instruction.
What to Expect in Online Reading and Literacy Courses
Online master’s programs in reading and literacy are designed to give teachers and literacy professionals practical skills they can use in the classroom. Coursework usually covers reading theory, literacy assessment, instructional strategies, and curriculum development.
Students often engage in research-based projects, analyzing literacy interventions and designing lesson plans. Practicum experiences are common, where students work directly with students or teachers under supervision, applying what they’ve learned in real-world settings.
Assignments may include case studies, reflective journals, lesson plan creation, and sometimes digital media projects. Classes are typically a mix of asynchronous lessons, which you can complete on your own schedule, and synchronous sessions where you interact with instructors and peers.
Cost and Financial Aid Options for Online Literacy Master’s Programs
The cost of online master’s programs in reading and literacy varies widely depending on the school, program length, and whether you are in-state or out-of-state. Tuition can range from around $10,000 to $30,000 for the full program.
Many programs also charge additional fees for technology, registration, or online course materials. To help manage costs, students can explore scholarships offered by universities or education-focused organizations, which may cover part of tuition based on merit or financial need.
Assistantships and graduate teaching opportunities can sometimes reduce costs further while giving valuable experience. Federal student loans and employer tuition reimbursement programs are other ways to finance your degree.
Comparing program costs and available financial aid options can help you choose a school that fits both your career goals and budget.