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What is a Reading Teacher?

Reading Teacher and Literacy Specialist is a field of study focused on helping others with the cognitive process of decoding symbols to construct meaning from text.  As a means of language acquisitions, reading is a vital part of sharing information and communicating with others.

Across all world languages, reading is colored by the reader’s life experiences, language, community, knowledge, and state of mind.  Reading is not an innate process, thus takes significant practice.  With the right teacher, students who are committed to the process of reading comprehension continue to develop and refine best practices towards literacy.

Once a base level of understanding of reading is in place, additional skills such as critical thinking and creativity are added to understand context, inflection, and emphasis in the material read.   A reading teacher or literacy specialist guides this process to ensure proper growth and progress of each student towards reading mastery.

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Reading Teacher and Literacy Specialist Degree

Since its establishment in 1636, Harvard University has been devoted to providing excellence in teaching and developing individuals to make a global difference. It has over 360,000 alumni all around the world and has more than 20,000 degree candidates for undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Harvard offers a language and literacy degree program that helps the student to be confident in their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. Students will learn how to conduct outstanding research and understand its policies and practices. The course will be handled by Harvard’s world-class and passionate professors that prepare the students for a rewarding career in the professional industry.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The University of Pennsylvania has been ranked as one of the top ten universities in the United States. It has award-winning educators and scholars that can help more than 20,000 students pursue careers, improve their skills and develop personal growth.

The university is committed to creating a student-centered environment and outlined a master’s program that is focused on reading, writing, and literacy that can be completed in one year for full-time and two years for part-time students. Students participating in the program will have the opportunity to work with different groups of people, which will help build their communication and research skills. The program will be completed after 10 courses and students will gain their own academic portfolio.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Vanderbilt University was founded in 1873 with the aim to contribute to strengthen the ties between the common country and offer excellent experience in music, engineering, arts and sciences, and education, law, and many others. It has more than 7,000 undergraduate students, and over 6,000 graduates and professionals enrolled in the university.

Its Department of Teaching and Learning develops a language and literacy program that focuses on literacy assessment, professional development, theory, and research. The course has 31 credits, which can train students to master more vocabulary skills. Aspiring literacy students may apply through the university’s website and provide the requirements needed for the application.

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Averett University has been offering classes for professionals to pursue different degree programs for more than 30 years. It also provides accelerated courses designed for convenience and can be accessed anytime, anywhere through online programs.

It offers education degree programs that prepare the students to become reading specialists. The course aims to provide students with practical and theoretical experience to help them enhance their comprehension and reading skills. Students can complete the course in 17 to 20 months.

Acceptance Rate

23.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Known for being the USA’s first research university, John Hopkins University believes that success depends on teaching and research, and knowledge and discoveries should be shared. It has been their vision for 140 years since the university’s foundation.

The university has developed a three-week reading program designed to involve students in assessments that help improve their skills in content knowledge, planning instruction, and vocabulary. It is handled by experienced professionals who are passionate and dedicated to providing excellent learning paths for aspiring reading experts. Graduates of this course will have a deep understanding of literacy and build skills that can be applied to professional industries.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Established in 1863, Boston College is the first college to operate in Boston, it is also a leader in student formation, liberal arts, and scientific inquiry. Its mission is to find the truth, learn and serve others.

It offers a teacher certification program for students who completed all of Boston College requirements in order to earn a recommendation and endorsement for licensure with the state of Massachusetts. The Sheltered English Immersion is an acknowledgement that the teacher earns to teach English language in Massachusetts’ public schools. To apply for SEI, graduate students must enter the Lynch School of Education and Human Development. 

Acceptance Rate

27.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Boston University has more than 34,000 students and provides more than 300 study programs under the guidance of more than 10,000 faculty and staff, making Boston University an interesting and student-friendly environment.

It has designed a reading education degree program to give students a thorough understanding of research and theory. The student will work with another student for supervised learning and will also teach the children to read and write in class. The program is also offered through online and can be completed in a year.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Established in 1831, New York University or also known as NYU, has been an innovator in education and promotes professional focus and a clear global vision. It is one of the prominent and respected universities in the world, with its students coming from every state of America and 133 countries.

It provides a literacy education degree program that teaches students advanced reading and writing skills. Applicants may enroll in the full-time and part-time classes and are required to have an eligible certificate in secondary education. Graduates of this program can have a rewarding career as a literacy specialist, editor, or classroom teacher.

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Rochester was founded in 1850 and has more than 12,000 students with a teacher-student ratio of 10:1. It is located in New York and has been providing relevant learning pathways related to art, research and many other aspects.

Its mission is to help the students learn and discover their abilities as well as teach them to create unique experiences to make the world better. In line with their mission, they designed a course that concentrates on preparing literacy teachers to inspire and make a difference in people’s lives. The program also allows students to obtain internship opportunities and can choose to add majors to their courses.

Acceptance Rate

29.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, is committed to help and improve the lives of the students by making them even greater. Its 2,000-acre campus houses 900 buildings and continues to grow over the time.

It provides a top ranked reading and literacy education degree for students who wish to become researchers and educators to improve the education of PreK-6 students. Enrollees of this program will specialize in teaching language, reading, and writing. It offers a doctorate, specialist, master's, and reading endorsement degrees.

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Since 1785, the University of Georgia has been providing world-class education. It is a top value in research and is recognized for its excellence through learning, leadership opportunities, and hands-on training.

The university offers a course called Recognition for Reading Education, which highlights the ability to obtain a teaching certificate in Georgia. The classes can be accessed via online or on-campus classes that are guided by nationally recognized faculty. Applicants for this course must, in accordance with the requirements of the university, have completed level B or higher reading instruction and assessment courses before applying to the course.

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

George Washington University accommodates more than 26,000 undergraduates and graduate students from all 50 states and 130 countries worldwide. Its main goal is to provide world-class faculty, high-quality undergraduate education, distinctive graduate education, and high-impact research.

It designed a graduate certificate in literacy education which gives an opportunity for students to learn about teaching and learning principles of reading, writing, and text viewing. Graduates of the program will understand the research and theoretical foundation of literacy. Upon completion, graduates will also obtain a stand-alone certificate or apply the 30-credit hour to the university’s master’s program in Concentration in Literacy and Reading Education.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

SUNY in Binghamton is the best public university in the Northeast, offering interdisciplinary and world-class education and dynamic research programs. The university values art, culture, science, engineering, as well as the people and the community around it.

Its Department of Teaching, Learning, and Education Leadership offers a literacy degree program that provides broad academic learning to prepare students in leadership and help them become competent in the literacy industry. Graduates of the program will receive a certificate and will have various career opportunities across New York and the surrounding state. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate career to be enrolled in the program.

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Providence College is a liberal arts institution of higher education that is committed to academic excellence. It was founded in 1917 by Dominican friars to provide a Catholic education and promote the common good of the campus community.

The institution designed a master's program in literacy education, requiring participants to complete 36 credits, including practical and campus experience. Depending on whether students choose full-time or part-time course schedules, students can complete the program within 1.5 to 5 years. The university requires an admission fee and other requirements before the applicant can proceed to enrollment.

Acceptance Rate

47.46

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Syracuse University offers various opportunities for its students with customizable online degrees and certificates. It has been in operation for 150 years, and its mission is to encourage global learning, experiential learning, and balance professional learning with general education.

The university's Department of Reading and Language arts offers a literacy education degree program that can be taken full-time or part-time. Its experienced faculty members are specialized in educational theory, literacy development, and research. Students of the program will develop their skills in literacy through an effective curriculum and instruction.

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of New Jersey was established in 1855 and has always been recognized as one of the top universities in the United States. It is also known for its natural beauty and strong liberal arts program, mentored internships, and field experiences.

Its Literacy and Reading Specialization course enhances the literacy instruction of the students. The institution is fully equipped with highly effective instructors who are experienced in reading comprehension, differentiating literacy instructions, and writing strategies. This program is suitable for applicants who already have an initial teaching license and are seeking to expand their knowledge.

Acceptance Rate

49.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Fordham University is a Catholic university with a full-heart engagement with the communities around the world. Their mission is to pursue excellence, care for others, and fight for justice.

Individuals who want to become a Literacy Specialist may enroll in Fordham’s Master of Science in Education program that enriches the learning in skills of the students in literacy and emphasizes experiences in learning activities. Candidates must provide a certificate of TESOL or special education teacher before admission to the program. Graduates of this course will have a better understanding of reading, writing, listening and oral communication.

Acceptance Rate

45.88

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of Connecticut is a top-ranked institution that is built to inspire the global community with its talented students and expert faculty. Its employees, students, and faculty are committed to discovering more about the world through research.

Graduates of UConn may apply to their Literacy Specialist Programs such as Remedial Reading and Language Arts Teacher, and Reading Consultant. Participants of the program will learn extensive research-based instruction that is guided by faculty members who are leaders in the field of literacy education. The course is designed for an immersive experience.

Acceptance Rate

49.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Clemson University is known as one of the most productive research universities in the United States. It attracts and unites teachers and students who want to make a difference in the surrounding communities.

It provides a master's degree in education, which can equip professionals with an in-depth understanding of literacy theory, research, strategies, and courses. Participants of the program will learn how to communicate appropriately with a wide audience. Graduates of the program will obtain endorsements in Literacy Coach and Literacy Teacher or certification in Literacy Teacher or ESOL.

Acceptance Rate

51.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

SUNY in New Paltz, New York is committed to providing affordable, high-quality education to students of all economic and social backgrounds. It is also committed to building a vibrant and diverse environment around the campus.  The university is training a new generation of literacy experts by helping children of all ages discover the world and express themselves. Its literacy courses are modern and designed to meet the growing demand for digital literacy. The program allows candidates to focus on their work and studies by providing flexible work schedules. 

Acceptance Rate

45.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of South Florida conducts creative activity, basic translational research, and innovative scholarship while delivering a world-class education for graduates, undergraduate, and professional students. Its goal is to promote the success of highly skilled alumni who strive to create a dynamic environment.

It offered a fully online course in Reading Education that is designed to prepare literacy educators and effective literacy leaders. The program expands the knowledge of the candidates in global literacies, practices, competencies, coaching skills, and instructional experience. It also uses online practices to meet the needs of the digital industry.

Acceptance Rate

47.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

The University of Pittsburgh was founded in 1787 and is one of the greatest universities in the United States. Alumni and faculty members of the university have won Nobel Prizes and have been NCAA champions among many other achievements.

It has designed a reading expert course that provides candidates with the opportunity to build knowledge, principles and leadership roles. The program will last for a year for full-time and 2-3 years for part-time. It is also combined with online and on-campus learning, and at the end of the course, candidates will receive a certificate and a degree in reading education

Acceptance Rate

56.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Fairfield University is a Jesuit university with more than 5,000 graduate and undergraduate students from all over the world. It embraces a liberal approach in education and encourages critical thinking skills and as well fostering ethical values.

The university has developed a reading and language development program that provides classroom educators with the knowledge and skills needed to perform exercises. The program aims to provide the best training for the candidates, including teaching practices, methods, and structured literacy. Graduates who complete the course will also receive Wilson Level 1 Certificate. 

Acceptance Rate

57.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Furman University is an outstanding academic institution that helps the students enjoy academic learning through liberal arts and sciences. Its students are prepared for career development and personal growth.

It has a literacy program, suitable for teachers who want to guide students with a deep knowledge of reading and literacy. The Master of Arts in Reading and Education designed this course to teach theories and research trends, and to provide the best literacy practices. The coordinator of the program is a published author, a literacy coach, and has experience in the elementary classroom.

Acceptance Rate

56.81

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

UCF or University of Central Florida is a research university that aims to create better opportunities for students and the community. It fosters social mobility while developing the skills of the students to help them advance in the industry.

The university outlines a master's degree in reading education. This powerful degree program in reading education helps to enable teachers to become reading coaches, experts, resource teachers and language supervisors. Candidates will go through assessments, reading programs, research, and diagnosis. Professional teachers in Florida are eligible to register for a degree in this course to expand their skills in the literacy industry.

Acceptance Rate

44.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

Literacy Specialist Requirements

In terms of educational requirements, literacy specialist majors will be required to take a number of cornerstone classes in college. Curriculum will vary by college but will generally encompass a series of common courses. Popular classes in literacy will include the following:

Employment in Reading Teacher Specializations

Literacy specialists earning a degree at the graduate level or undergraduate level will typically enter the workforce in a teaching capacity. Specialized fields can extend in many directions with the skills acquired in college within literacy. Examples of career paths for reading teachers include: private tutor, middle school teacher, early childhood education, high school teacher, college teacher, public policy manager, academic research, curriculum designer, English language interpreter and translator.

Reading Teacher Jobs & Career Growth

Employment for literacy specialists and reading teachers are outpacing the national average of six percent.  In fact, the expected job growth for high school teachers and college professors is expected to grow by 7% and 13% respectively.  The net increase in jobs within teaching is estimated to be 187,000 in the coming decade.   With the median annual income of $76,000 teachers will remain in demand and requisite for a robust, functional education system.

Additional Resources for Reading Specialists

For additional tools, resources, learning modules, and professional networking, the following national associations in literacy may be of benefit.

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