online masters reading specialistIn this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable master’s in reading online degree programs.

Reading specialists, according to PayScale – a global compensation research organization that compiles salary data – earn an average salary of $51,857. Reading specialists generally work at elementary and middle schools helping students develop reading skills. To work as a reading specialist, as with most teaching jobs, a degree is required. Affordable master’s in reading online programs are now offered from some of the nation’s top-ranked and fully accredited colleges and universities. Earning an online master’s in reading can open doors to a variety of job opportunities.

Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs Methodology

We looked at 96 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered master’s in reading online programs, such as the online M.Ed. with specialization or concentration in reading. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: School or program rankings with U.S. News and World Report, online completion pathways for a master’s degree or M.Ed. in reading online degree, institution accreditation, and affordability. For affordability, we selected schools that offered graduate tuition and fees less than $18,000 per year. We then ranked the top 30 master’s in reading online programs according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable master’s in reading online programs.

#30 – Fresno Pacific University

Online Master’s in Reading and Language

Fresno, California

Website

Fresno Pacific University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
The master’s in reading and language online program at Fresno Pacific University ranks among the most affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,112

Fresno Pacific University offers a master’s in reading online for current educators seeking a master’s degree with a reading and language certificate. The goal of the program is to help practitioners become expert educators helping students gain literacy skills. The program is a blend of theory and practice where learning educators take online courses and learn how to apply that knowledge in practical ways to help students. The 32-credit program features a summer institution designed for teachers to meet on campus for four days and immerse themselves in curriculum and networking opportunities designed to help teachers integrate effective literacy instruction in their classrooms. U.S. News and World Report ranks Fresno Pacific University #31 in regional universities West.

#29 – University of Florida

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Gainesville, Florida

Website

University of Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Reading education! UF is a top grad school for master’s in reading online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737

The University of Florida’s online master’s in reading is designed for current or aspiring educators seeking to become reading specialists in a K-12 environment. The program consists of 36 credits and requires a 3.0 GPA throughout the duration. Most students complete the degree is 4-6 semesters. Curricular standards were developed in concert with the International Literacy Association and the Florida Department of Education. The degree is broken down into distinct blocks of pedagogy including classroom reading assessment and supervision, diagnosis and remediation of reading difficulties, electives, ESOL, foundations of reading, and language arts literature. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Florida #1 in best online graduate education programs.

#28 – Western Kentucky University

Online Master’s in Literacy Education

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Website

Western Kentucky University - most affordable master's in reading online programs
Western Kentucky University’s master’s in literacy program requires GRE scores for admission.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,140

Western Kentucky University’s online M.Ed. in reading is a 30-credit program designed to prepare students for instructional and leadership positions in a variety of contexts such as public and private schools, educational programs, and the private sector. Students may choose to take the PRAXIS 5204 exam upon completion of the program towards a certified reading endorsement. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree, GRE scores of 139 minimum in verbal and quantitative sections, 3.5 minimum GRE writing score, and teacher certification or statement of eligibility. Featured courses include clinical diagnosis of reading variability, content area and disciplinary literacy, foundations of literacy instruction, and literacy learning and cultural differences. U.S. News and World Report ranks Western Kentucky #293 in national universities.

#27 – Black Hills State University

Online Master’s in Reading

Spearfish, South Dakota

Website

Black Hills State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Black Hills State University’s master’s in reading online program consists of 35 credits!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,157

Black Hills State University offers one of the most affordable online reading programs for current educators seeking further knowledge and skills in literacy education. The 35-credit program emphasizes the practical application of literacy theory in the classroom to improve student reading abilities. Additionally, the program prepares graduates for leadership opportunities outside of the classroom. Potential careers include classroom teacher, literacy specialist, literacy coaches, reading specialists, and program administrators. The entire program is offered online. Featured courses include assessment and correlation of reading difficulties in grades 6-12, cultural diversity in schools, diagnosis and remediation of reading difficulties, leadership in schools, and reading research and theory. U.S. News and World Report ranks Black Hills State #117 in regional universities Midwest.

#26 – University of Georgia

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Athens, Georgia

Website

University of Georgia - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked & accredited! University of Georgia – master’s in reading education online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,982

University of Georgia’s online master’s in literacy is one of the most affordable degrees of its kind designed to help certified teachers and literacy specialists increase their skill level in helping students improve their reading competency. Offered through Georgia’s College of Education, the program is appropriate for teachers in Pre-K through grade 12. The 36-credit program allows up to nine transfer credits from another institution or program towards completion. Admission is made through a holistic process with the successful applicant profile consisting of a minimum 3.0 GPA, two years minimum teaching experience, and a 295 combined GRE score. University of Georgia is ranked #5 in best online graduate education programs.

#25 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master’s in Literacy Education

Richmond, Kentucky

Website

Eastern Kentucky University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
100% online – EKU’s master’s in reading online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,570

Eastern Kentucky University offers a master’s in reading online for current educators. The program is designed for individuals seeking a 100% online degree with no campus visitation requirements. Completion of the 30-credit program leads to certification as a literacy specialist in a P-12 setting within the state of Kentucky. Those in other states will need to check with their state about certification requirements. Eastern Kentucky is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The program is administered through the Eastern Kentucky College of Education and is accredited through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Eastern Kentucky University is ranked #89 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#24 – Indiana University

Online Master’s in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education

Bloomington, Indiana

Website

Indiana University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable – Indiana University’s master’s in reading online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,564

Indiana University offers a top-ranked online M.Ed. in reading that is also one of the most affordable online degrees of its kind. The program is designed for individuals seeking the flexibility of an online education in combination with the rigor of a respected flagship state institution of higher education. Graduates go on to be classroom literacy teachers, educational administrators, or writers and editors of instructional materials. Admission requirements include transcripts, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and GRE scores for applicants with a GPA below 3.0. Indiana University Bloomington is ranked #79 in national universities and #45 in best online graduate education programs.

#23 – University of Northern Iowa

Online Master’s in Literacy Education

Cedar Falls, Iowa

Website

University of Northern Iowa - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ideal for practicing teachers! University of Northern Iowa’s online master’s in lit education.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,432

The University of Northern Iowa’s online master’s in reading is designed for working professionals seeking the convenience of an online master’s degree. Practicing teachers are invited to apply for admission. Students can select from three types of reading endorsements including reading education K-8, reading education 5-12, and reading specialist K-12. Courses may include advanced assessment and evaluation of literacy development, advanced literacy skills, methods and materials in literacy education, and roles of the reading specialist. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Northern Iowa in several categories including #15 in best education schools and #20 in regional universities Midwest.

#22 – University of South Florida

Online Master’s in Reading

Tampa, Florida

Website

University of South Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked by U.S. News! University of South Florida – online master’s in reading.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,428

The University of South Florida offers one of the most affordable online reading programs designed for working professionals seeking a rigorous yet flexible program. The program offers multiple tracks depending on career aspirations. Plan II is the pathway for currently licensed teachers who are interested in expanding their understanding and practice of literacy teaching skills as well as for those who may want to pursue education administration. Track III is for reading and literacy specialists who seek to use the theory and skills learned in a non-educational setting. The 36-credit program includes courses such as assessment in developing literacies, foundations of educational research, history and foundations in reading and STEM disciplines, and supervision and coaching in literacy. USF is ranked #69 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#21 – West Virginia University

Online Master’s in Literacy Education

Morgantown, West Virginia

School Profile

West Virginia University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked by U.S. News. West Virginia University – master’s in reading online programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,990

West Virginia University’s online master’s in literacy is housed within The College of Education and Human Services and is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation and is recognized by the International Literacy Association. Admission requirements include a completed graduate school application with all associated materials and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Test scores are not required as part of the application. Provisional admission may be granted for those with a minimum GPA less than 3.0. Featured required courses include content and disciplinary literacy instruction, early literacy instruction, foundations of literacy, and motivation and engagement in literacy learning. U.S. News and World Report ranks West Virginia University #77 in best online graduate education programs.

#20 – University of North Dakota

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Website

University of North Dakota - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked by U.S. News – Affordable master’s in reading online program at University of North Dakota.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,697

The University of North Dakota offers a master’s in reading online designed for current educational professionals. Graduates of the program are prepared for specialized jobs including the roles of reading specialist and literacy coach. Additionally, the program is utilized by regular classroom teachers who want to increase their knowledge and skills in literacy education. Students can choose from an M.Ed. or an M.S. The M.Ed. is supports general classroom teachers to advance their pedagogy while the M.S. is designed for reading and literacy specialists who support literacy through specialized occupations and roles. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of North Dakota #61 in best online graduate education programs.

#19 – Northern Michigan University

Online Master’s in Education Reading Specialist

Marquette, Michigan

Website

Northern Michigan University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Under $10,000! Northern Michigan University’s online master’s in reading degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,417

Northern Michigan University offers an online master’s in reading at an affordable rate for K-12 educators seeking to become a reading specialist. Successfully completing the program qualifies graduates for a specialized reading endorsement in the state of Michigan upon successful completion of the MTTC subject area test. Students from other states should check requirements for their location. Courses include diagnosis and treatment of reading disabilities, foundations of reading instruction, improving reading comprehension research and its practical implications, and teaching reading for secondary teachers. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northern Michigan University #76 in top regional universities Midwest.

#18 – University of West Florida

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Pensacola, Florida

Website

University of West Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
GRE or MAT scores required! University of West Florida’s master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,062

Similar to an online master’s in literacy, the University of West Florida provides credentialed, current classroom teachers in a K-12 setting. The goal of the program is to take reading and literacy courses to create effective classroom instruction. The curriculum is based on International Reading Association standards as well as the Florida Department of Education Reading Endorsement. Graduates of the program are prepared to earn the Reading Endorsement/Certification in Florida. Students from other states need to inquire about reading endorsement requirements in their own state. Admission to the 36-credit program includes bachelor’s degree, valid teaching certification, GRE/MAT scores, and personal statement.

#17 – Wilmington University

Online Master’s in Reading Education

New Castle, Delaware

Website

Wilmington University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
A fully online master’s in reading program – Wilmington University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,636

Wilmington University offers one of the most affordable online reading programs for current educators to earn their certification as a reading specialist. The program is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and meets the standards of the International Literacy Association. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a practicum over the course of a semester where they spend time in the classroom putting into practice concepts and skills they have learned through their curriculum. Courses may include application of strategies for teaching content area reading, diagnosis and correction of reading difficulties, literature and non-fiction books and materials for children and adolescents, and seminar in reading research.

#16 – Pittsburg State University

Online Master’s in Reading

Pittsburg, Kansas

Website

Pittsburg State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
CAEP-accredited – Pittsburg State University’s master’s in reading online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,164

Pittsburg State University offers an online M.Ed. in reading designed for current educators. The program is accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The program was created for the busy classroom teacher unable to take traditional courses. All 39 credits can be taken online with degree completion occurring after the seventh semester (based on two courses per semester and one internship in the last semester). Courses may include advanced children’s and young adult literature, advanced language arts, approaches to teaching writing, methods and materials in remedial reading, and practicum in the diagnosis and remediation of reading difficulties. U.S. News and World Report ranks Pittsburg State #25 in best online graduate education programs.

#15 – Jackson State University

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Jackson, Mississippi

Website

Jackson State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Affordability! Jackson State University’s master’s in reading online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,051

Jackson State University offers a master’s in reading online for current educators seeking to increase their ability in conducting action research towards improving reading outcomes for students. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Additionally, students need to show proof of a passing score on the PRAXIS II and PLT exams, proof of a current “A” educator’s license or proof that they are seeking renewal through college credits, and a writing sample. Courses may include foundations of literacy, methods and materials for teaching elementary literacy, methods of educational research, and theory and research in teaching literacy. U.S. News and World Report ranks Jackson State #293 in national universities.

#14 – Appalachian State University

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Boone, North Carolina

Website

Appalachian State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked and accredited – Appalachian State University’s master’s in reading online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,961

Appalachian State University offers an online master’s in literacy that focuses on reading education. The program is partially online, consisting of evening and hybrid courses designed for busy educators seeking additional skills leading to the concentration in reading and the “M” (master) teaching licensure. Career possibilities include K-2 classroom teacher and K-12 reading specialist. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, GRE or MAT scores no older than five years, transcripts, resume, and three letters of recommendation. Students may matriculate to the 39-credit program during any semester. Appalachian State is ranked #77 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#13 – Sam Houston State University

Online Master’s in Reading and Language Arts

Huntsville, Texas

Website

Sam Houston State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked by U.S. News. Sam Houston State University’s online master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,791

Sam Houston State University offers one of the most value-driven online master’s in reading programs designed for practicing educators to increase their skills in teaching students to improve in reading and literacy. Additionally, Texas residents enrolled in the program can earn a Texas Reading Specialist Certification provided they have a valid K-12 teaching license and two years of experience prior to taking the exam. Courses may include cognition and emergent literacy, language arts theory and instruction, literary and instructional materials in reading programs, and special topics in reading. U.S. News and World Report ranks Sam Houston State University #46 in best online graduate education programs and #281 in national universities.

#12 – University of Houston

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Literacy Studies

Victoria, Texas

Website

University of Houston - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable! University of Houston’s master’s in curriculum and instruction literacy studies.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,559

The University of Houston Victoria offers an online master’s in reading for current educators and practitioners. The program is designed for the busy educator who is unable to take courses on campus or who does not live in an area serviced by an institution. Students who need the flexibility and rigor of an online education from an accredited institution will find the program a plausible solution. Courses include assessment of multi-literacies learning, foundations of developmental writing, foundations of writing for the 21st-century learner, instruction for students with literacy difficulties, and teacher literacy leadership & critical action policy. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Houston Victoria #87 in regional universities West.

#11 – East Carolina University

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Greenville, North Carolina

Website

Online master’s in reading! ECU offers a flexible program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,485

East Carolina University offers an online M.Ed. in reading for students seeking an advanced degree from a regionally accredited institution that values flexibility, rigor, and student support. The ECU program is entirely online making it an excellent option for the busy working professional or place-bound student not within geographical reach of a postsecondary institution. The 30-credit program is specifically prepared for individuals to become reading specialists that support reading and literacy within K-12 institutions. Courses may include assessment and evaluation in literacy education, diversity and equity in literacy instruction, and literacy leadership and coaching. U.S. News and World Report ranks East Carolina #29 in best online graduate education programs.

#10 – University of North Carolina

Online Master’s in Reading Education

Charlotte, North Carolina

Website

University of North Carolina - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
GRE scores required! UNC Charlotte’s master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,378

The University of North Carolina Charlotte offers an online master’s in literacy that offers graduates a curriculum preparing them for the “M” license in K-12 education. Current classroom teachers and aspiring literacy specialists will benefit from this program as it promotes the best literacy practices and teaching pedagogy within a K-12 context. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, three letters of recommendation, GRE or MAT scores, statement of purpose, and initial teaching license from NC or another state’s equivalent. Courses may include current issues and practices in literacy education, global literacy in a multicultural world, and research methods. U.S. News and World Report ranks UNC-Charlotte #29 in best online graduate education programs.

#9 – Louisiana State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction: Reading and Literacy

Shreveport, Louisiana

Website

Louisiana State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
LSU’s master’s in reading online program emphasizes literacy.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,349

Louisiana State University at Shreveport offers one of the top-ranked online reading programs, blending online coursework with hands-on experience in the classroom. Additionally, the program includes courses on leadership and administration for those who may pursue leadership positions. The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The program does not lead to any official teacher licensure but may prepare one to take official state licensure exams in reading and literacy. Candidates should check with their state regarding licensure and certification requirements. Courses may include creating a professional learning community, creating multicultural connections through literature, and educational technology applied in the classroom. Louisiana State University Shreveport is ranked #96 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#8 – University of Nebraska

Online Master’s in Reading

Kearney, Nebraska

Website

University of Nebraska - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
The master’s in reading online program at University of Nebraska is highly affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,187

The University of Nebraska Kearney offers an online master’s in literacy designed for working educators who desire the flexibility an online graduate degree offers. Graduates go on to careers as master teachers, reading specialists, literacy coaches, resource teachers, and educational administrators. The program does not confer certification but prepares graduates to sit for the PK-12 Reading Endorsement in the state of Nebraska. Students from other states need to check with their state on certification requirements. Courses may include contemporary theory and practice in reading, curriculum development in multicultural education, improvement of instruction in elementary school language arts, and language and composition in secondary school. University of Nebraska Kearney is ranked #25 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – The University of Texas

Online Master’s in Reading

Tyler, Texas

Website

The University of Texas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Low tuition and flexible enrollment – UT Tyler – online master’s in reading.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,126

The University of Texas at Tyler is a leading online master’s in reading program featuring low-cost tuition and flexible enrollment. The program is entirely online, making it an excellent choice for working teachers. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college, Texas teacher certification, and GPA above 3.25 (lower GPA requires submission of GRE scores). Students must also pass an FBI background check. Courses may include action research for literacy educators, foundations of literary coaching, issues in teaching of literacy using children’s and adolescent literature, research methods for the behavioral sciences, and teaching disciplinary literacy to adolescents. University of Texas at Tyler is ranked #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#6 – Eastern New Mexico University

Online Master’s in Reading and Literacy

Portales, New Mexico

Website

Eastern New Mexico University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ideal for busy educators! Eastern New Mexico University’s master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,778

Eastern New Mexico University offers an online M.Ed. in reading for educators seeking to earn and advanced graduate degree focused on literacy development in a K-12 setting. The program is entirely online making it a great option for the busy educator unable to take courses on-campus. Graduates go on to successful careers as teachers, literacy specialists, reading specialists, reading program coordinators, and educational administration. The program has a thesis and non-thesis option and includes courses such as advanced studies and instructional application in language arts, critical pedagogy and educational reform, integrated technology and literacy through project based learning, and supporting writing in the classroom. U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern New Mexico University #87 in regional universities West.

#5 – University of Central Arkansas

Online Master’s in Reading

Conway, Arkansas

Website

University of Central Arkansas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable! University of Central Arkansas – master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,238

The University of Central Arkansas offers a master’s in reading online combined with an endorsement in dyslexia. The program, housed in the College of Education, is accredited by several agencies including the International Literacy Association and the International Dyslexia Association. The program’s two primary purposes are to further develop reading specialist’s skills and knowledge of reading instruction, and to assist classroom teachers in strengthening their literacy instruction and learning outcomes. The program is 30 credits and is delivered entirely online. Courses may include diagnosis and intervention of reading difficulties, foundations of dyslexia and the language, literacy strategies for the early and emergent reader, and multicultural literacies and diverse texts. Central Arkansas is ranked #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#4 – Arkansas State University

Online Master’s in Reading

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Website

Arkansas State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Earn an online master’s in reading in just 12 months from Arkansas State University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,210

The University of Arkansas State offers an online master’s in reading for current and aspiring teachers. The 30-credit program can be completed in as few as 12 months. In addition to course curriculum, students work closely with the latest reading diagnostic and assessment tools as preparation for their careers as a classroom teacher or literacy/reading specialist. Courses may include introduction to statistics and research, literacy for diverse learners, perspectives on professionalism in education, and theory and practice in teaching reading. Arkansas State University ranks #293 in national universities and #115 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#3 – University of Georgia

Online Master’s in Reading Instruction

Carrollton, Georgia

Website

University of Georgia - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Reading Instruction! University of Georgia offers affordable master’s degrees.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,110

The University of West Georgia offers one of the top ranked online reading programs of its kind in the country. The program is administered by the Department of Learning and Teaching, housed within the College of Education. The 30-credit fully online program is accredited by the International Reading Association and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Courses may include clinical practice in reading, comprehensive literacy assessments and interventions, literacy engagement through writing, methods and materials in the teaching of reading, and supervision in reading. The University of West Georgia ranks in multiple categories including #293 in national universities and #132 in best online graduate education programs by U.S. News and World Report.

#2 – Northeastern State University

Online Master’s in Reading

Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Website

Northeastern State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
Ranked and accredited – Northeastern State University’s master’s in reading online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,903

Northeastern State University offers a master’s in reading online designed for classroom teachers to have a deeper understanding of reading diagnosis, assessment, and instruction. The program is accredited by the International Literacy Association and includes 32 hours plus a capstone course. Courses include advanced development of the young child, advanced materials for young adults, current trends and research in early childhood, emergent and early literacy development, and utilization of resources in early childhood. Northeastern State University is ranked in multiple categories by U.S. News and World Report including #189 in best online graduate education programs, and #77 in regional universities west for the 2020 cohort of institutions.

#1 – Western New Mexico University

Online Master’s in Reading

Silver City, New Mexico

Website

Western New Mexico University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Reading Online Programs 2019
#1 most affordable option for a master’s in reading online degree – Western New Mexico University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,781

Western New Mexico University offers a master’s in reading online, empowering the graduate to be a subject matter expert in reading and literacy education. The program includes 9 credits of core coursework and 27 hours of course specializations. Reading courses include corrective reading instruction, early childhood reading, reading skills in secondary education, teaching of reading, and theoretical models of reading. The program is conducted fully online making it an excellent choice for working professionals or place bound individuals. Graduates go on to careers as classroom teachers or reading specialists and literacy coaches. Graduates also go on to careers in educational administration in K-12 settings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a master’s in reading online degree?

A master’s degree in reading is a specialized degree with distinct career pathways. The curriculum teaches its students to correctly diagnose and assess the reading abilities of all students in an effort to increase reading ability and comprehension. Most degrees are designed for educators within the K-12 system. Additionally, most programs are bifurcated into tracks for primary and secondary teachers due to the differing needs of the student population.

Students enrolled in the programs can often choose coursework concentrating on either younger students or high school students. Moreover, there are some programs that focus on working with students with documented reading disabilities or adult learners working on a general education degree (GED) or going back to school at a community college.

Graduates can go on to successful careers as classroom teachers where reading instruction is part of their overall day, or they may choose to become reading specialists or literacy coaches that work with individual students or small groups. Graduates who enjoy the one-on-one or small-group setting should consider the literacy coach or reading specialist career as opposed to the classroom teacher. Graduates may also go on to work at the district level in administrative positions designing reading curriculum and programs.

What is the job outlook for individuals with master’s in reading online degrees?

According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of teaching jobs is projected to increase by approximately two million jobs during the time period of 2014-2024. The projected accretion is for all teaching occupations from preschool through postsecondary education. The numbers vary greatly when drilling down into the data. Primary school teacher careers are expected to experience just 6% growth overall during the ten-year period of 2014-2024.

For context, the average growth of all occupations during this time is 11%, so candidates should expect a competitive environment when applying for jobs. Those with a master’s in reading online can expect an advantage due to their education level and the increased demand in a specialized skill such as reading and literacy instruction, diagnosis, and assessment. The growth rate for middle school and high school teachers is also expected to be 6%, with the number of job openings expected to be 175,500 for middle school and 284,000 for high school.

In addition to teacher type, geographic location is a salient factor when looking at occupational growth. Major metropolitan areas will experience more job openings due to population density as opposed to rural areas, which are experiencing population decline. Graduates with an online masters in reading will find more opportunities in larger areas. The top five states with the highest employment level of teachers include California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. The top metropolitan areas include New York-Newark-Jersey City, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.

How much money can I make with an online master’s in reading degree?

Individuals with a master’s in reading or literacy can expect to earn approximately $52,000 annually according to compensation data analysis and research firm PayScale. PayScale utilizes real salary data from individuals completing a salary profile on its website. The firm then uses advanced data analysis through its standardizing and matching proprietary algorithms to accurately publish remuneration data available to the public.

Salary data from the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics offers up a similar compensation structure for teachers at the K-12 level. For the time period of 2014-2024, average elementary education teachers should expect to earn a median (average) wage of $54,89 compared to $55,860 and $57,200 for middle and secondary educators. The data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reflects educators with various levels of experience and education. Individuals with a master’s degree in reading online should expect to earn more than individuals with a bachelor’s degree and a similar amount of experience.

Educators living in dense population areas within metropolitan cities can expect to earn higher wages. Educators teaching in Washington D.C. earn an average salary of $80,820, the highest median salary in the country. Teachers in the state of New York earn the second highest average annual salary at $70,260. California comes in third at $66,050.

What are the admission requirements for master’s in reading online programs?

Admission requirements vary greatly from program to program. Programmatic differences, as well as varying graduate school requirements, mean application components and standards can be quite different. It is critical for potential applicants to know the specifics of each institution and program when considering a particular school.

One major distinction that impacts admissions is whether the program is for current educators only. Many master’s in reading online programs are specifically designed for currently licensed and practicing teachers. This means applicants are required to have an unencumbered license in their state. Additionally, these types of programs often require a minimum number of years of teaching experience (often around 2). Programs that accept aspiring teachers who are seeking a career change will accept a bachelor’s degree in any field assuming the degree was conferred from an accredited institution. Higher ranked schools will only accept degrees from regionally accredited colleges and universities and not from nationally accredited institutions.

Higher ranking institutions often require standardized test scores such as the GRE or MAT. Some institutions will waive the test score requirement if an applicant has a high GPA (often above 3.25) or is an educator with significant experience. Top-ranked institutions will require test score minimums, often at or above the 50th percentile.

How long does it take to earn an online master’s in reading degree?

This question often has more to do with the individual applicant. Because online master degree programs in reading are designed for the busy educator, they often allow for a great degree of latitude when it comes to completion timelines. Most programs allow students to enroll either full or part-time. Cohort-based programs are more rigid and require students to adhere to a specific enrollment level to ensure the group of incoming students all graduate at the same time.

These types of programs can often be completed in 2-3 years. Non-cohort programs do not require a lock-step enrollment. Students in these programs can vary their schedules from term to term based upon their availability. Students may enroll part-time for a semester then increase to full-time and vice versa. These type of programs will include a minimum time to completion as well as a maximum number of years in which a student has to graduate.

Accelerated programs can often be completed in one academic year or 12 months. These types of programs are generally for licensed teachers. In addition to minimum timelines, students have a maximum number of years to complete. These maximum time frames range from 5-7 years for most programs. Students who exceed the maximum number of years will be forced to reapply and may have to meet additional requirements, including new coursework.

BCO Staff
October 2019

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This concludes our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in reading programs.