Degrees in reading and literacy overview

Introduction to reading and literacy

Stephen King once said, “books are a uniquely portable magic.” When we learn to read, we also learn about history, magic, romance, science, philosophy – and one another. Books can transport us to parallel universes, and allow us to move through time and space dropping us anywhere from a futuristic space station, to a land populated by dinosaurs. Authors and illustrators work together to make the words in a book fill your mind with powerful imagery. The journeys through different books can be endless, but the one journey that makes it all happen is the journey through learning how to read.

A reading specialist teaches children and adults who struggle with reading the essential skills – taught via games, lessons, practice sessions – that will give lifelong access to the world of books.

Educators and specialists work to ensure all children and adults have the opportunity to be transported into another dimension through a good book. A reading specialist teaches children and adults who struggle with reading the essential skills – taught via games, lessons, practice sessions – that will give lifelong access to the world of books. Access to this rewarding career is generally secured by a degree in reading literacy.

Financial aid

Both master’s and doctorate programs can be expensive. This is not only because of the rising cost of higher education in the United States, but because of the length of the programs. A doctorate degree can cost between approximately $20,000 and $79,000 – this is more than some students can expect to make in a year. It is no wonder then that many higher education students are hesitant to sign on for a degree with the associated potential debt and stress. Luckily several financial aid options are available to eligible students at the master’s and doctorate level, including scholarships, loans, and grants.

One of the most popular financial aid options is Federal Student Aid. This financial support from the federal government is offered to students who qualify based on their financial need. To see whether you are eligible, fill out the free online FASFA form. You will receive a response indicating both your eligibility and the amount of financial aid you can receive within a few weeks.

Does my university need to be accredited?

Accreditation shows licensing and credential agencies, higher education admission departments, and employers that your academic understanding of reading literacy has met or exceeded a set of standards set by an accreditation agency. These agencies vet higher education programs to ensure the knowledge and skills students attain adequately prepares them for further education or employment.

When you earn a master’s or doctorate in reading literacy from an accredited institution and want to pursue a career in teaching, the licensing agency needs to see that your academic qualifications meet standards required for state licensure. If you’d like to pursue a doctorate degree after earning a master’s, the faculty of the program you are applying for needs to see the degree you have earned beforehand has given you the knowledge and skills needed to move onto more advanced academic material. If you are unsure if the program you are applying for is accredited, check the Database for Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs for more information.

Master’s in reading and literacy

During this program you will learn about the foundations of literacy, multicultural education in literacy, and effective techniques for developing literacy in your students. In addition to required coursework, you will also complete a master’s thesis or project. This is required for graduation and is an essential part of any master’s program.

Literacy teaching and theory

You will learn about the foundations of literacy, evidence-based research that influences teaching practices, and historical perspectives that have shaped our understanding of how to positively influence a child’s reading, fluency, and writing skills.

Diagnosis of reading difficulties

This course will focus on the assessment and instruction of students who need formal support due to their struggles with reading. This will involve fieldwork experience where you will be able to work with and help students with reading difficulties.

Educational psychology

By exploring the theories, theorists, behavioral principles, and approaches to school learning, you can develop a broad knowledge about education in general, and understand where people with reading difficulties, past and present, have been let down by the system. From this, you can direct your efforts to meeting the teaching needs of this specific population.

Children’s literature

This course examines the authors, themes, genres, and books that have shaped children’s literature. You will review historical literature and current trends to gain an understanding of how literature has changed.

Practicum

A practicum is a portion of the master’s program where you work with students identified as having problems reading, under the supervision of a licensed teacher.

Cost of a reading and literacy degree

Students can expect to pay between $7,000 and $21,000 for an online master’s in reading literacy degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost for an on-campus master’s degree is $32,870.

Career options with a masters degree

Doctorate in reading literacy

During your doctorate program, you can further your knowledge and specialized skills, while gaining expertise in leadership, assessment practices, and research. In addition to doctorate level coursework, you will also be conducting your own research into a novel area of reading literacy that will become the basis for your dissertation.

Research in literacy

In this course you will review evidence-based research that has shaped our understanding of literacy development. You will also gain the essential skills for careers in research and management.

Theoretical and historical foundations

This is a foundational course that gives students an overview of theories, instructional methods, history, literacy development and policies that affect the development of readers and the education system.

Teaching diverse learners

To be able to work with students with reading difficulties, it is important for you to understand the factors that cause, or add to, their difficulties. These factors may be related to the educational system, like overcrowded classrooms, inadequate supply of reading materials, or under-trained teachers. Or, the problem may be attributed to the student, for example dyslexia, eyesight problems, or from a non-English speaking family. This concentration can develop your understanding of the needs of diverse learners and how these needs can be met in the classroom.

Assessment and evaluation

This course will teach you how to properly assess and evaluate learners with reading difficulties so you can implement reading strategies to ensure academic success.

Leading and managing literacy programs

This course will teach you about different leadership concepts, and allow you to learn more about programs that suit a student’s developmental needs. You will also build the framework for effective management and leadership skills needed to run a literacy program.

Career options with a doctorate degree