Master's in Literacy Education

Empowering Educators, Transforming Literacy

Earn your master’s in literacy education at Texas Woman’s University to develop skills to confidently lead literacy instruction. Our program blends research-based strategies, expert mentorship, and real-world application to help you advance in your career and make a lasting impact in schools and communities.

Why Choose TWU?

  • Flexible Learning: Hybrid format designed for working educators (70% online, 30% face-to-face)
  • Accredited & Respected: Fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA)
  • Career Advancement: Prepare for roles as a literacy leader, reading specialist, instructional coach or curriculum developer
  • Supportive Community: Learn in a cohort-based model with faculty mentorship and peer collaboration
  • Affordable Options: Financial aid, TEACH grants, and scholarships available

Two Degree Pathways for Your Goals

Master of Education (MEd) in Literacy Education

  • Designed for educators seeking advanced instructional strategies and literacy leadership skills
  • Prepares graduates for the TExES Reading Specialist Certification (All-Level K-12)

Degree Plan - MEd in Literacy Education

Master of Arts (MA) in Reading Education

  • Ideal for those interested in literacy research and advanced study
  • Emphasizes literacy theory, assessment, and instructional best practices

Degree Plan - MA in Reading Education

All-Level (K-12) Reading Specialist Certification

Master's degree coursework in literacy education can lead to certification as an All-Level (K-12) Reading Specialist.

This certificate requires previous teaching certification and, at the time of completion, a master’s degree and two years of classroom teaching experience. In addition, students must successfully complete the appropriate certification exam and related TEA requirements.

This certification is awarded by the State Board for Educator Certification.

All-Level (K-12) Reading Specialist Certification

Career Opportunities & Salary Outlook

With your Master of Education in Literacy Education, you can become a literacy leader in roles like:

  • Reading Specialist: Develop reading curricula and provide targeted intervention support
  • Literacy Coach: Mentor educators and improve reading instruction across schools
  • Curriculum Developer: Design evidence-based literacy programs for school districts and publishers
  • Instructional Coordinator: Guide literacy policy and best practices at the district level
  • Higher Education Instructor: Teach literacy education courses in colleges and universities

Salary Outlook: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, instructional coordinators (which include reading specialists) earn a median salary of $64,450.

Admission requirements

Contact Information

Heather Cato, PhD
Assistant Clinical Professor
hcato@twu.edu 
940-898-2304

Graduate Admissions Support:

About Texas Woman’s University

TWU is the nation’s largest university system focused on women, with a legacy of leadership in education, health sciences, and liberal arts. With campuses in Denton, Dallas, Houston, and online, TWU provides high-quality, accessible education designed to empower future educators and literacy advocates.

TWU by the Numbers:

  • #1 Public University in the U.S. for Best Colleges for Students with Children (BestColleges.com)
  • #3 Most Affordable Institution in Texas (College for All Texas)
  • 81% of graduates remain in Texas, contributing to education, healthcare and leadership across the state
  • Home to the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership, which supports female educators, entrepreneurs, and policy advocates

Join TWU’s master’s in literacy education program and become a literacy leader who transforms schools, communities, and the future of education.

Page last updated 1:22 PM, March 21, 2025