Most Affordable Online Master's In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

A ranking of the most affordable online master's in reading and literacy degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 6, 2023

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Many schools offer online master's in reading and literacy degrees. These programs often appeal to aspiring educators with a passion for reading and writing. Degree-seekers study the English language and explore teaching methods. Graduates with a master's in reading and literacy help people learn a vital life skill.

Reading and literacy programs online let students earn a degree from anywhere. An online format helps enrollees continue teaching while completing their master's.

This page lists the most affordable online master's in reading and literacy degrees. Keep reading to learn about common classes and potential jobs for graduates.

View Our Rankings List Here

Questions About Reading and Literacy Degrees

What can you do with master's in reading and literacy?

Graduates may work as adult literacy, high school, middle school, or elementary teachers. Some master's degree-holders work as private tutors or college professors.

Are reading specialists in demand?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for education, training, and library professionals to grow 10% from 2020-2030.

Can you teach with a reading and literacy degree?

Many graduates with this degree work as educators. Most school districts also require a teaching license or certificate.

Why Get a Degree in Reading and Literacy?

A degree in reading and literacy prepares enrollees for jobs that offer a positive work-life balance. Educators usually receive summers, weekends, and evenings off.

Education, training, and library professionals earn a median annual salary of $52,380, according to the BLS. This figure surpasses the annual median salary of $41,950 for all occupations.

Online master's in reading and literacy programs offer extra benefits. Many online programs run asynchronously, allowing learners to complete coursework around their schedules. Degree-seekers can also attend the most affordable program without commuting or relocating.

How Much Does a Reading and Literacy Degree Cost?

Master's degrees may range from $30,000-$120,000, according to EducationData.org. Many factors impact cost, including school type, program length, and learners' residency status. Private school enrollees usually pay more than those attending a public college.

Full-time degree-seekers can complete a master's in about two years. Learners who finish their degrees quickly can avoid rising tuition rates.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners should budget for extra costs, such as technology fees. These fees may cover tech support and access to virtual classrooms. Some programs also charge graduation fees.

Online degree-seekers must also buy materials and books. Learners can save money by buying used or digital versions. Some bookstores allow students to resell their books for cash. University bookstores may credit the textbook return to a student account.

Reading and literacy programs online may require extra books. For example, some programs require students to buy books written for various age groups.

How Much Do Reading and Literacy Majors Make?

Graduates with a master's in reading and literacy earn an average of $54,000 annually, according to Sept. 2021 Payscale data. However, reading and literacy majors earn varying amounts depending on their career. Graduates working as adult basic instructors earn a median annual salary of $55,350. High school teachers earn $62,870.

Geographic location also impacts salary. For example, educators in Colorado earn an annual average salary of $43,480. The same professionals in Virginia earn $63,380.

Courses in Reading and Literacy

Most online master's in reading and literacy programs require 30-60 credits. This amounts to 10-20 classes.

Programs may run synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous classes feature set virtual class times. Asynchronous classes allow students to watch pre-recorded lectures any time.

Online reading and literacy programs typically require a thesis. This project includes a long research paper that fills industry knowledge gaps. Students pursuing a master's in reading and literacy may take the classes below. Please note that class titles and descriptions vary by school.

Career and Salary Outlook for Reading and Literacy

Online master's in reading and literacy degrees prepare students to pursue many types of instruction-related jobs. Graduates may teach night classes to adults learning English or work in traditional school settings.

Some graduates with a master's in reading and literacy work as authors. They may work as full-time freelance novelists or pursue this work as a side income source. See below for three potential careers for master's degree-holders.

Salary Potential and Growth Rate
Career Median Annual Salary Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030)
Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers $55,350 -5%
High School Teachers $62,870 8%
Middle School Teachers $60,810 7%

Source: Bureau Labor of Statistics

Licensure for Teachers and Educators

Reading and literacy majors who want to work for public schools need a teaching license. Licensure requirements vary by state. Most states use the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence exam to grant certification.

Part of the license and certification process requires classroom experience. Applicants must complete student teaching unless they follow an alternative licensure path. Reading and literacy teachers usually need subject certification. They often earn certification to teach related topics like speech, journalism, or language arts.

Most teaching certificates prepare teachers to instruct in one state. However, many states participate in reciprocity agreements. States with similar certificate requirements allow teachers to transfer their licenses. Teachers may need to take additional action to meet extra requirements for license transfer.

Most Affordable Online Master's in Reading and Literacy Degrees

#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Northeastern State University

  • Tahlequah, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Reading students attend Northeastern State University for top-ranked degrees such as the online master's degree in reading.. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. The M.Ed. in reading lays the foundation for even more advanced education such as a doctorate.

This school’s online format attracts people who see the appeal of remote learning. The program is built to accommodate busy students such as those who work and have pressing family obligations. Enrollees also like the fact that whether they study in person or online, faculty serve as mentors who can adequately prepare them for advanced work.

Unless otherwise stated, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. School data shows the acceptance rate stands at 100%, but some programs may differ. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Oklahoma residents about $4,500 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,913
Out-of-state
$14,313
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,500
Out-of-state
$9,999
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
7,517
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Louisiana State University in Shreveport

  • Shreveport, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Louisiana State University in Shreveport. The M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction is an excellent choice for people with a bachelor’s in education who want to advance their career with a master’s. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

A 27-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio facilitates faculty mentorship opportunities and collaboration in this master's program. Learners acquire the advanced training employers want in potential hires knowledgeable about best practices. Graduates leave the program equipped for more advanced career opportunities and the option to pursue a doctoral program.

Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges both Louisiana residents and out-of-state students $6,196 per year. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. About 38% of the school’s learners take out a student loan, another way to fund their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,656
Out-of-state
$5,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,196
Out-of-state
$6,196
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
8,579
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Eastern New Mexico University

  • Portales, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Eastern New Mexico University provides students with an online M.Ed. in reading and literacy program that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. This degree provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level job opportunities in the field. If they choose, graduates with a can also pursue a doctorate later on.

The school’s online format is very attractive to busy learners who have other obligations. The reading program gives them an opportunity to manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. Another key benefit is the support enrollees receive from faculty and the academic community, whether they study on campus or online.

It is to be expected that applicants will need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. Those who apply can expect an acceptance rate of about 58%. Tuition stands at around $7,044 per year for people who live in New Mexico, and students can help fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$5,994
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,044
Out-of-state
$9,342
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
5,685
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

California State University, San Marcos

  • San Marcos, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students attend California State University, San Marcos for top-ranked degrees such as the online MA in reading, language, and literacy program. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a master of arts in reading.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who have a lot to accomplish and need adaptability. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. The academic environment at the school is supportive and student-focused, whether those students are learning in person or online.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. Though some programs post different averages, the school accepts about 62% of all who apply. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs California residents about $7,176 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
16,053
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Appalachian State University, a public institution, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Boone, North Carolina, campus. The institution’s 10 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to study from wherever they live. One of these is the MA in reading education for graduate degree-seekers.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which was designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees may find it easy to work this master’s degree into their schedules. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

Overall, about 77% of applicants get admitted each year, with some variations to be expected depending on the program. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
19,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

University of Houston-Victoria

  • Victoria, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public university situated in Victoria, Texas, the University of Houston-Victoria administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers nine remote master's programs. Those interested in the field should explore the master of education in curriculum and instruction with a literacy studies concentration.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Caretakers, professionals, and other busy enrollees may immediately see how they can balance work, family, and their education. The curriculum and instruction program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 56% per year, but some programs may vary. For consideration to enter this program, degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Consult with the program to find out more about application requirements and deadlines.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,896
Out-of-state
$15,024
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,338
Out-of-state
$13,934
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
4,506
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

West Virginia University

  • Morgantown, WV
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Reading students from around the country attend West Virginia University for the top-ranked online master's degree in literacy education, one of the best in its class. Learners acquire advanced skills that employers want in middle- to high-level professionals. The MA in literacy education prepares students for doctoral degrees and other terminal programs.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who have a lot to accomplish and need adaptability. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. Whether enrollees are learning in person or online they study in a supportive academic environment.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The admission rate is an average of 84% of applicants. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $10,134 per year for West Virginia residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,976
Out-of-state
$25,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,134
Out-of-state
$26,154
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,839
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of West Florida administers a number of quality online graduate programs. The master's degree in reading has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in reading need to advance their education in this field. This program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.

A 21-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio facilitates faculty mentorship opportunities and collaboration in this M.Ed. in reading program. Learners complete a strong curriculum in reading delivered by faculty with industry expertise. This higher-level academic preparation is a prerequisite for career advancement or a doctoral program in this field and related ones.

Tuition for Florida students is $7,088 per year, and tuition for out-of-state students is $22,166. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. Student loans are another option, and about 64% of enrollees use them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
12,557
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

An emphasis on accessibility is a key part of Sam Houston State University’s mission, as it delivers programs for prospective graduate students pursuing programs such as reading degrees. Learners can choose the M.Ed. in reading and language arts from 27 online master's programs, some of them top-ranked degrees offered from the Huntsville, Texas, school. The program’s appeal includes a flexible online format that allows degree-seekers to work and pursue other interests.

While criteria may vary depending on the degree, a bachelor’s is generally required to apply to a master’s program. What the master's degree in reading provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. The program also prepares the holder for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

The current tuition rate stands at $5,765 per year for residents of Texas and $13,361 for out-of-state residents. Avenues for exploration when it comes to paying for tuition are grants and scholarships. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bills.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,361
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
21,558
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

University of South Florida

  • Tampa, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At the University of South Florida, prospective reading graduate students receive advanced preparation through degrees designed for busy learners. The school administers online degrees from the campus in Tampa, Florida, and they include 27 online master's degrees such as the master's in reading education. Learners can pursue this degree from anywhere, which adds to the curriculum’s appeal.

Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the same field or a related one. What draws students to a master’s like the MA in reading education program is the advanced training it provides to people who want to assume leadership roles and other higher-level opportunities. A Ph.D. is the next accomplishment for many holders with a master’s in their field.

The tuition rate depends on residency, with people living in Florida paying $8,350 per year and residents of other states paying $19,048. Learners can pay for their education with institutional and external grants and scholarships. Many students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
44,246
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Western Kentucky University

  • Bowling Green, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Western Kentucky University, a public institution, offers both a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs from the Bowling Green, Kentucky, campus. A leader in online graduate education, the institution offers 27 online master's degrees. Reading students can pursue the MAE in literacy education among the options.

The program allows students to earn an advanced degree without sacrificing rigor or other obligations. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. A hallmark of this institution is a lot of experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

Applicants can expect an admission rate of 97% each year on average, though this number can vary between programs. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s for admission to most master’s programs. They may also need to submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation, which the department outlines in its admissions policy.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,802
Out-of-state
$26,496
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,140
Out-of-state
$18,340
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
18,171
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Western New Mexico University

  • Silver City, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Western New Mexico University is home to a number of quality online graduate programs. The MA in teaching is a very good option for people with a bachelor’s in education who want to earn an advanced degree online. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.

The school has a 13-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the teaching master's program. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices in education. Obtaining this degree gives the holder an advantage in career advancement opportunities and higher pay negotiations.

Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges New Mexico residents $3,356 per year and out-of-state residents $8,730 per year. Many degree-seekers qualify for financial aid such as grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. About 39% of enrollees take out student loans, so there are plenty of ways to fund this degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,167
Out-of-state
$11,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,356
Out-of-state
$8,730
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Richmond, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Eastern Kentucky University’s master of arts in education ranks highly among similar programs and should be of particular interest to students wanting to study online. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. Students earn this master's so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.

People see the appeal of remote learning, and that is a draw for the school. The program gives them an opportunity to manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. The school accepts about 94% of all who apply, though different programs have different averages. Once accepted, students will pay $9,900 per year for in-state tuition, with grants, loans, and scholarships popular funding streams for those who qualify.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
14,980
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

The University of Texas at Tyler

  • Tyler, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Texas at Tyler provides students with an online reading program that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. The master’s degree equips enrollees with advanced training valued by employers in their profession. Those who complete the M.Ed. in reading can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.

The school designs these programs to be delivered using an established online format, a big draw for many learners. The program gives them an opportunity to manage various aspects of their lives without sacrificing the advanced education a master’s degree provides. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The acceptance rate is 83% at this school, but expect some differences across programs.Students can expect to pay about $5,850 per year for tuition if they live in Texas, and they can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$20,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,850
Out-of-state
$14,328
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,617
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

  • La Crosse, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective reading graduate students should consider University of Wisconsin La Crosse for flexible programs that allow them to earn an advanced degree while they work. The La Crosse, Wisconsin, school offers a reading specialist master's degree among its five online master's degrees. This adaptable program opens up access to full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges preventing in-person graduate education.

A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. What the M.S.Ed. in reading specialist program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.

Tuition differs depending on residency status, with residents of Wisconsin paying an average $8,651 per year for in-state tuition, and residents elsewhere pay $18,637. An avenue for exploration when it comes to paying for tuition are grants and scholarships. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may want to consider federal or private loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,585
Out-of-state
$16,404
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,651
Out-of-state
$18,637
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
10,623
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

East Carolina University is a public institution with many programs to offer from the Greenville, North Carolina, campus. A leader in online graduate education, the university offers 41 online master's degrees. The master's degree in reading and literacy education is a good option for learners who want an advanced degree in literacy education.

The program can fit into busy schedules because of its adaptability and flexibility. Professionals, caretakers, and other workers can schedule their studies in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times. Deep experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both quality and flexible learning is a hallmark of this institution.

The admission rate for this school is 79% on average per year, but expect some variations across programs. Master's degree-seekers usually need to have a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field in order to receive consideration. Consult with the program to find out more about application requirements and deadlines.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,651
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Arkansas State University

  • Jonesboro, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Arkansas State University is a public institution in Jonesboro, Arkansas. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers 19 remote master's programs. One option is the master's degree in reading for graduate-level education students.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Professionals, caretakers, and other workers can schedule their studies on the evenings, weekends, and other convenient times. The degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.

The school’s admissions statistics show that about 80% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. The education department can provide more application information, such as what documents to submit and how to do that.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$13,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
13,356
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#18 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Minnesota State University, Mankato

  • Mankato, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Reading students attend Minnesota State University, Mankato for top-ranked degrees such as the online MS in reading. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a master's degree in reading.

People see the appeal of remote learning, and that is a draw for the school. Students report being able to work and prioritize other obligations without sacrificing advanced education. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

Though the department can provide more information, the application requirements include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. Those who apply can expect an acceptance rate of about 63%. Students can expect to pay about $7,694 per year for tuition if they live in Minnesota, and they can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,694
Out-of-state
$7,694
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
14,325
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

Pittsburg State University

  • Pittsburg, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Pittsburg State University, prospective graduate students receive advanced preparation through degrees designed for busy learners. The Pittsburg, Kansas, school offers an MS in reading with an emphasis in reading specialist licensure among its 10 online master's degrees. This adaptable degree opportunity makes graduate education accessible to caretakers, full-time workers, and anyone unable to relocate for school.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential to apply to master’s programs. What the reading program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. Degree recipients can also apply to terminal programs in their field, such as a Ph.D.

The average tuition for students living in Kansas is $6,678 per year, and tuition is $17,510 if they live elsewhere. Avenues for exploration when it comes to paying for tuition are grants and scholarships. Many students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,694
Out-of-state
$17,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,678
Out-of-state
$17,510
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
6,645
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Reading And Literacy Degrees 2022

University of Central Arkansas

  • Conway, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

An emphasis on accessibility is a key part of University of Central Arkansas’s mission, as it delivers programs for prospective graduate students pursuing programs such as reading degrees. Located in Conway, Arkansas, the school offers a ranked master's degree in literacy with a dyslexia endorsement in its catalog of 10 online master's programs. The program’s appeal includes a flexible online format that allows degree-seekers to work and pursue other interests.

Applicants will need to review the program page for more admissions information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. Students complete a rigorous master's in literacy curriculum that immerses them in advanced knowledge and field preparation that a bachelor’s alone cannot provide. Another benefit of this degree is preparation for a doctoral program or another terminal credential.

Tuition is $5,018 per year for residents of Arkansas and $10,037 per year for nonresidents. Education funding options include institutional scholarships and grants, along with opportunities elsewhere, like through foundations and other nonprofits. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may also want to consider federal or private loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,810
Out-of-state
$13,620
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,018
Out-of-state
$10,037
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
10,869
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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