Credits required
30-33
Cost per-credit*
$353.50
Length
2 years
Start Terms
3 per Year
Online Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed.
Prepare to lead literacy transformation in your school or district
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The Online Reading Curriculum and Instruction Master of Education (M.Ed.) is designed for licensed K–12 educators who aspire to become literacy leaders. This 30-33 credit graduate program provides in-depth study in reading instruction, curriculum development, assessment and intervention. It equips educators with the skills to support diverse learners and foster a culture of reading achievement at the classroom, school or district level.
Program snapshot
- Program Length: 2 years (30-33 credits)
- Delivery Format: 100% online asynchronous
- Start Terms: Fall, Spring or Summer
- Application Deadline: Rolling
Overview
Taught by faculty in the College of Education and Human Development, the program is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, making it accessible for working professionals across Nevada and beyond.
Student learning outcomes
The Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed. program prepares educators to lead literacy instruction with confidence and expertise. Students learn to apply foundational literacy theory, support diverse learners through effective assessment and instruction and translate literacy research into classroom practice. These outcomes are assessed through coursework, a comprehensive exam and reflective essays submitted throughout the program.
Curriculum and learning experience
The curriculum includes a combination of core and elective coursework designed to meet the academic requirements for Nevada’s Reading Specialist Endorsement and develop real-world instructional expertise. Refer to the University General Course Catalog for required classes because this may vary based on the year you are admitted.
Required classes
- EDUC 770 - Graduate Seminar in Reviewing Educational Research
- EDRL 600 - Foundations of Literacy
- EDRL 700 - Literacy Assessment
- EDRL 701 - Field Work and Clinical Practice in Reading)
Elective options
9 or 12 credits for Thesis and Non-Thesis Respectively)
- EDRL 746 - Literacy for Developing Civic Understanding
- EDRL 607 - Book Selection for Children
- EDRL 610 - Word Study, Phonics, Spelling and Vocabulary Instruction
- EDRL 612A - Teaching Reading to Older Students
- EDRL 643 - Literacy Instruction II
- EDRL 778 - Seminar in Teaching Writing
- EDRL 612B - Teaching Reading to Older Students
- EDRL 642 - Literacy Instruction I
- EDRS 700 - Introduction to Educational Research
Comprehensive exam option (3 credits)
Required for non-thesis students only
- EDS 795
Thesis option (6 credits)
Required for thesis students only
- EDS 797 (Thesis)
Licensure preparation
This program satisfies the academic component for Nevada’s Reading Specialist Endorsement. To qualify for the endorsement, candidates must:
- Hold a valid Nevada elementary or secondary teaching license
- Complete three years of licensed teaching in a state-approved K–12 setting
- Complete a minimum of 16 graduate semester hours in reading courses covering foundations of reading, etiology and diagnosis of reading problems, clinical practice in correcting reading problems, and research in reading
Educators outside of Nevada should verify endorsement reciprocity with their state’s licensing board.
Admissions and faculty
Admission requirements
To apply for the Online Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed., candidates must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
- Submit an online application via the College of Education and Human Development
- Provide official transcripts, a statement of purpose, resume, two letters of recommendation
No GRE is required. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall, spring or summer start.
Faculty expertise
Faculty in the Online Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed. program bring extensive experience in literacy leadership, bilingual education, curriculum development and reading assessment. Courses are led by professors from the College of Education and Human Development who actively engage in literacy research and classroom practice.
Tuition and financial aid
| Tuition | Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Credit Registration Fee† | $353.50* |
| Estimated Total† | $10,605 (30 credits) |
† Does not include mandatory University student fees such as technology charges. Financial aid and graduate assistantships may be available to eligible students.
*Based on 2025-2026 academic year in-state tuition and registration rates.
Support for online students
Nevada Online students benefit from personalized academic advising, access to the University’s Career Studio and technology support services. The asynchronous format offers flexibility for busy educators while maintaining a high standard of academic quality.
Why choose the University of Nevada, Reno for your Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed.?
The University of Nevada, Reno offers a fully accredited and accessible program led by university faculty who are experts in reading education. The Reading Curriculum and Instruction M.Ed. is built for educators seeking a research-driven program aligned with real-world teaching needs. As a student, you will benefit from the flexibility of asynchronous learning, the credibility of a Carnegie® R1 University and the support of a university committed to student success.
Benefits of learning online with Nevada Online
Classes taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty
Access to a Carnegie® R1 research university
Choose from accessible, fully online programs
Continue your education from anywhere in the world, free from a fixed schedule