Master's in Reading and Literacy Online
Academic title: Reading and Literacy K-12, M.A.
30 Credits
to Graduate
January 11
Next start date
*Recommended apply date is minimum 6 weeks prior to next start date.
Online master's in reading and literacy K-12
The online master’s in reading and literacy gives you the tools and strategies to become a leader in literacy education. You’ll study and apply coaching models to help students build reading and critical thinking skills at every stage of their education.
The online program is open to credentialed teachers and follows the curriculum standards approved by the Michigan Board of Education for the Reading Specialist (BR) Endorsement.
As of Fall 2024, our graduates have a 100% pass rate on the Reading Specialist Certification test.
The master's degree in reading and literacy is 100% online. You’ll complete your capstone practicum in your own classroom, with your own students.
Online reading and literacy (K-12) degree overview
| Core credits | 30 |
|---|---|
| Elective credits | 0 |
| Total credits to graduate | 30 |
How much does an online reading and literacy (K-12) master's degree cost?
The cost shown below is based on the current tuition and fee estimate. Your actual cost of attendance for financial aid purposes may vary based on your assigned tuition rate, the number of credits you're enrolled in and the length of your enrollment period. If you're enrolled in a single module instead of a full semester, your housing and food, transportation and personal expenses will be adjusted based on the number of weeks you're enrolled (for example, 12-week or 8-week modules). If you're enrolled less than half-time, your cost of attendance will not include housing and food, personal expenses or loan fees.
- Military tuition benefits: Active duty, veterans and military-affiliated students may qualify for reduced tuition, waived fees and need-based awards
What can you do with an online master's in reading and literacy?
Many states are recognizing children’s literacy as a critical marker of future success. That’s why 30 states and the District of Columbia have passed laws requiring students to be proficient readers by the end of third grade.
When you participate in our reading education program, you’ll gain the advanced knowledge and instructional skills needed to guide literacy efforts at the classroom, school and district levels.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, instructional coordinators who oversee school curriculums and teaching standards typically need a master’s degree and have a median salary of $74,720 per year. Job growth is projected to be stable over the next 10 years with about 21,900 openings each year on average.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Elementary School Teacher | $62,310 |
| Librarian | $64,320 |
| Reading Specialist | $66,970 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $83,980 |
| Adult Basic Education/Literacy Instructor | $63,130 |
All data and statistics in this section are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Admission requirements
Application Deadline: July 31
In addition to the university's general admission requirements, you must have a valid K-12 teaching certificate or equivalent.
Regular admission into the program requires an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a four point scale). If you have a GPA of 2.99 or lower, you should submit a copy of your current professional résumé and a statement of purpose to be reviewed and considered for admission with stipulations.
A GPA below 2.5 will not be considered for admission to the program.
A maximum of 6 hours taken before signing the master's program may be counted toward the program. You must earn a B or better in each graded course.
CMU’s dedication to literacy extends beyond the classroom.
The Literacy Center at CMU is making materials that focus on K-6 cross-disciplinary literacy available to two schools in nearby Bay City. These materials will be used by support staff during structured after school programs.
