Reading and Literacy (K-12)
MA
Reading and literacy masters
A Master of Arts degree in Reading and Literacy from CMU offers you the tools and strategies to become a leader in literacy education. You will help students build reading and critical thinking skills at every stage of their education. As of fall 2024, our graduates have a 100% pass rate on the Reading Specialist Certification Test — a reflection of our program's strong preparation and support.
Need more reasons to choose CMU?
- Graduate faster: You can apply 3 credits each (for a total of 2 courses) to your degree progress if you've completed your LETRS training and/or your Literacy Essentials modules. This means you may be able to complete the program in as few as 24 credit hours.
- Complete your degree 100% online: Complete your capstone clinical practicum in your own K-12 classroom, with your own students.
AT A GLANCE
What will I learn with a reading and literacy masters?
This 11-course accredited program covers both the theory and practice of teaching reading and literacy. You'll take a 16-week clinical practicum in which you'll have a chance to use the techniques you learn in the classroom. Open to credentialed teachers, CMU's reading and literacy (K-12) program will teach you to:
- Organize and introduce school literacy programs.
- Diagnose and treat literacy difficulties.
- Plan and deliver evidence-based reading and writing instruction.
- Develop interdisciplinary and integrated literacy units.
- Conduct literacy research.
- Develop technological and viewing skills related to literacy programs.
By taking just one course a term (one course in Fall 1 and one course in Fall ll), you'll be able to complete your master's degree in under two years.
More states are recognizing children's literacy is a critical marker of future success. It's why 15 states and the District of Columbia have passed laws requiring students to be proficient readers by the end of third grade.
By participating in our reading and literacy (K-12) master's program, you will gain the advanced knowledge and instructional skills needed to guide literacy efforts at the classroom, school, and district levels.
Please note that this program does not lead to initial teaching certification.
Reading and literacy masters program highlights
As a master's candidate in the Reading and Literacy (K-12) program, you will:
- Enjoy flexible learning: Learn where you live. Courses for this program are offered online. By taking just one course a term (one course in Fall 1 and one course in Fall ll), you'll be able to complete your master's degree in two years.
- Certification-to-credit options: Turn your professional development, work experience and certifications into earned credits. Credits will be applied to your degree after you complete 6 credits (2 courses) of your program at CMU with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
- Meet education standards: Follow a curriculum that meets standards approved by the Michigan State Board of Education for the Reading Specialist (BR) Endorsement.
- Join an accredited program: Join a program that follows standards developed by the International Literacy Association (ILA) and the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and adopted by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Masters in teaching careers
This master's degree strengthens your teaching credentials and gives you the skills to apply effective reading and literacy strategies across elementary, middle and high schools.
| 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 |
Learn more about CMU's College of Education and Human Services
In the College of Education and Human Services, we'll help you help others. Take what you love to do – fashion, teaching, recreation, event planning – and learn how to lead, challenge and inspire while doing it.
Request Information about CMU
By submitting this form, I agree to receive calls, emails and/or text messages from Central Michigan University to discuss furthering my education.