Online Doctorate in Reading and Literacy Programs

An online doctorate in reading and literacy can equip you with knowledge about the acquisition of literacy and reading skills. Some graduates conduct research or work in postsecondary education to train future educators. Other individuals pursue careers in instructional design, administration, or curriculum development.

Most doctoral programs in reading and literacy require you to complete 40-80 credit hours. And you typically spend the first 2-3 years taking core and elective classes, after which you write and defend a dissertation on an original research topic.

And whether you want to become a teacher, administrator, or instructional designer, an online doctorate in reading and literacy can help you get there.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Do you see literacy as a social justice issue? Or do you want to help others learn to read? Then, you might find an online doctorate in reading and literacy attractive.

A traditional or online doctorate in reading and literacy takes 2-6 years to complete, depending on your schedule and program’s graduation requirements. You’ll take around 40-80 credit hours of core and elective courses, including credits toward completing your dissertation. If you want to graduate more quickly, then you might consider online programs that offer self-paced or asynchronous courses.

In addition to core classes, most doctoral programs offer electives that can count toward a concentration, such as adult education or early childhood and elementary literacy. Other specializations include teaching English as a second language (ESL), pedagogy and curriculum, or literacy.

Depending on your career goals, you may also be able to pursue a specific degree track. For example, those interested in teaching might choose to pursue a doctor of education (Ed.D.). A doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) might suit people who want to work in postsecondary education or conduct research in reading and literacy.

Positions for professionals with doctorates in reading and literacy will likely remain in demand in the near future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that jobs for social and community service managers and instructional coordinators will grow 9% and 2%, respectively, between 2022 and 2032. These figures either match or exceed the average projected growth rate across all occupations during the same period.

An online doctorate in reading and literacy can qualify you for postsecondary education, curriculum development, adult literacy, and nonprofit work. You might also assist adults learning English as a second language. Also, a doctorate can expand access to managerial and leadership opportunities.

See what you can do with a doctorate in reading and literacy. Learn more about careers in education.

Professionals in education must continually receive training and certification to stay current in their fields. People who teach in public elementary and secondary schools must maintain state licensure. Many postsecondary institutions provide licensing and certification courses. Some of these schools offer free massive open online courses (MOOCs), which provide workshops, classes, and other educational resources.

One type of credential is a reading specialist certificate, which qualifies professionals to help students at the K-12 level improve their literacy. An early childhood language and literacy certification prepares educators to help children learn to read and write in elementary and pre-K settings.

The cost of an online doctorate in reading and literacy varies by school, location, and residency status. According to the NCES, the average tuition for a graduate degree totaled $20,513 annually in 2021-22. This figure differs for public and private schools. Many online programs cost less than in-person courses of study, especially if they waive out-of-state tuition. When considering a graduate degree, you should also keep in mind other expenses, such as room and board, books, and student services.

Online doctoral programs vary in their delivery formats. For instance, asynchronous courses might benefit some students with full-time jobs, allowing them to complete their class requirements on their own time. If you who to earn your degrees in a shorter time frame, you might consider enrolling full time instead of taking classes on a part-time basis.

Online doctoral programs can prove more accessible for people limited by geography, work schedules, or finances. If you do well, learning at your own pace, you might find an online program suitable. On the other hand, learners who want the interaction of a traditional classroom setting might prefer on-campus classes.

Doctorate in reading and literacy programs with accreditation can demonstrate academic rigor and adherence to educational requirements. Individuals attending accredited schools can obtain financial aid, and their credits can transfer to other institutions. You should also determine whether a doctoral program holds programmatic accreditation from an organization like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

As with on-campus schools, online programs offer various student services to help you make the most of your educational experience. For instance, you can contact student services to access disability accommodations, writing assistance, and academic advising. These programs also help with internships, job interview preparation, and other types of employment assistance.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges.