Earn Your Master’s Degree in Reading Education

This online program uses science-based reading instruction to develop literacy leaders in their schools and districts. Take the next step in your career with a degree from one of the nation’s top education schools.

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A Program Designed for You

Scholarships Available

Currently accepting admission applications. Scholarships are awarded as part of the admission process. Apply early for best consideration. 

Discounted Tuition

Current Virginia preK-12 educators are eligible for discounted tuition rates.

Flexible Study

Learn at your own pace and pay as you go. Complete the program in as little as 12 months or take up to 3.5 years.

Pathways to Endorsement

This program is approved for adding the Virginia K-12 reading specialist endorsement to a professional teaching license.

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Where Can this Degree Take You?

Graduates emerge as skilled literacy professionals ready to lead school-wide literacy development and support diverse learners across educational settings.

UVA reading education graduates are currently:

  • Serving as reading specialists, literacy coaches, and interventionists in K–12 schools—implementing evidence-based, systematic reading instruction aligned with Virginia’s literacy standards
  • Conducting diagnostic assessments and individualized literacy interventions, especially for students with dyslexia, English learners, or other at‑risk readers
  • Planning and facilitating professional learning and coaching for teachers in effective literacy practices within schools and districts
  • Designing and evaluating literacy curricula and district‑wide reading programs, grounded in rigorous research and aligned with Virginia’s mandated frameworks (including the Virginia Literacy Act and SOL expectations)
  • Engaging in school leadership roles supporting system-wide literacy initiatives, collaborating with stakeholders to improve literacy outcomes across schools
  • Completing practicum and embedded internship experiences that prepare them for hands-on leadership in their own school contexts, in partnership with licensed teachers and administrators

 

The discussions in all my courses have been very impactful to me. I have received thoughtful and considerate feedback from my professors and peers, which led to enriching learning experiences. My instructors have gently guided me in my growth, and my peers were willing to self-reflect on their own teaching habits and to seek ways to improve.
Cathy Balfanz, M.Ed., 2024

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The UVA School of Education & Human Development is ranked #9 for best online graduate education program in the country by U.S. News and World Report.
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Reading Education FAQs

When can I start the program, and what are the application deadlines?
  • There are three entry terms each year:
    • Summer: June start, May 15 application deadline
    • Fall: August start, July 15 application deadline
    • Spring: January start, December 1 application deadline
  • Full-time students must start in the summer or fall. Part-time students can start in the summer, spring, or fall, but for the fastest completion time should start in the summer or spring.
  • Admission decisions are typically made within two weeks of the application deadline. GRE scores are not required.
How much does this program cost?
The cost per credit hour is $640, and the program requires a total of 30 credit hours to complete. Tuition and fee rates are reviewed and updated annually and are subject to change. Tuition and fees are paid on a pay-as-you-go, semesterly basis. Virginia preK-12 educators may qualify for a reduced cost per credit hour. Scholarships are available to students enrolled in six or more credit hours per semester. Scholarships may not be stacked with the reduced preK-12 educator tuition rate. Early application is recommended for the best scholarship consideration.
What is the format of this program?

The program coursework is 100% online and asynchronous with a 3-credit summer practicum. The practicum provides an experiential academic component to enhance the student’s knowledge and skillset in reading education. Students will have the choice of selecting a practicum site or being assigned a site by the program director. The practicum will entail supervised, practical application of knowledge and skills gained in coursework.

Can this program help me advance my existing teaching credentials or add endorsements?
Yes! The M.Ed. in reading education is a state approved program for adding the Commonwealth of Virginia’s K-12 reading specialist endorsement to a professional teaching license. Adding the endorsement is not a program requirement. If you already have a master’s degree, see our Graduate Certificate in Reading Education program. Please see the reading specialist endorsement tab below for additional requirements.
Can I work while enrolled in the program?
Yes, the online format is designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments.
I already have a master’s degree and am looking to add a reading specialist endorsement, what are my options?

If you already have a master’s degree, see our Graduate Certificate in Reading Education program page for an alternative option to add the endorsement.