Master’s in Literacy Education
Transform lives through the power of language, literacy, and education with CU Denver’s online MA in Literacy Education.
CU Denver’s MA in Literacy Education prepares educators to develop and enhance reading, writing, and oral language skills in K-12 student populations.
- Focus on culturally relevant teaching practices and digital literacy.
- Gain expertise in literacy assessment, children’s and adolescent literature, and informed instruction.
- Graduates with a Reading Teacher (K-12) endorsement are prepared to lead literacy initiatives in diverse school settings.
- Endorsements align with Colorado Department of Education requirements; consult state guidelines for specific licensure details.
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Degree LevelMaster's -
School & CollegeSchool of Education & Human Development -
Total Credit Hours30 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Features
You can trust CU Denver to provide an education that prepares you for excellence in your career. The university and school are recognized for preparing leaders of distinction who value educational excellence and social justice. Additionally, CU Denver’s School of Education & Human Development is counted among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools, making us one of the top education schools in the country.
As part of this program, you will learn to fully engage students in your classroom by exploring:
- Language and literacy acquisition
- Effective practices in teaching reading and writing
- Culturally relevant teaching practices
- Children’s and adolescent literature
- Digital literacy & use of technology to enhance literacy instruction
- Literacy assessment and informed instruction
- Hands-on practical learning opportunities
- Teacher leadership
Our goal is to help you have a transformative impact on student learning, creativity, and achievement, while also supporting you as a leader and innovator in your school and professional networks.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $464* per credit | $557* per credit |
*See Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page for graduate tuition disclaimer.
Reading Teacher Endorsement
Recommendations for endorsements are made by the Literacy Education program, but the endorsement is granted by the State of Colorado. Individual state requirements vary and may include teaching experience in addition to a valid teaching credential. Students should consult with the Colorado Department of Education or another state in which they wish to be endorsed for the most updated endorsement requirements. Please note that the Colorado Department of Education also requires two years of post-license teaching experience to apply for the Reading Teacher endorsement.
Example Courses
The program requires 30 credit hours of coursework covering critical literacy areas. Capstone and practical field experiences integrate classroom learning with real-world applications.
Foundations of Literacy Learning (LCRT 5000)
This course explores literacy assessment and instruction in PK-6 classrooms, teaching interns to use various methods to support students' reading and writing needs.
Literacy Assessment and Instruction (LCRT 5020)
Examines reading instruction, research, and equity-focused practices for diverse learners. Teachers explore responsive methods to enhance student engagement and motivation.
Literature for Children and Adolescents (LCRT 5055)
Covers reading, writing, and language assessments for informed instruction. Students learn literacy assessment principles, laws, and strategies for diverse and multilingual learners.
Career Outlook
Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in tutoring, adult education, elementary education, and more.
Admissions
Open to educators and individuals with access to student populations. We welcome applications from licensed individuals who have a strong interest in bringing hands-on literacy learning to their students. A teaching license is not required for this program; however, participants are required to have access to students. Each district has its own rules about granting permission to non-employees for working with their students.
Admission Requirements
- Three recommendation letters
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Resume/CV
- If applying for an endorsement, a copy of your teaching license is required.
- Application fee: $50
- Written Statement: Describe your interest in the program, your special strengths, and the goals you hope to achieve through your work in the program.
- International Applicants only: Proof of English language proficiency
- Admissions Interview: An interview may be required as part of the admissions process. If so, applicants will be contacted with more details.
Get Personalized Support for Your Application
When you’re ready to apply for your online master’s degree in Literacy Education, your Enrollment Navigator will help walk you through the entire process, from gathering required materials and submitting your application to checking your admissions status and enrolling in CU Denver. After you submit your completed application and required materials, you can check your admission status online.
Testimonial
Tuition & Financial Aid
Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.
Tuition is determined based on which CU Denver program is chosen, undergraduate or graduate level, and finally your resident status. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take the Next Step
Ready to empower students through literacy? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by calling us at 303-860-5604 or filling out the form above for more information.