
Master's in Reading & Literacy Instruction
Link Reading Science to Practice
Our online Reading and Literacy Instruction program prepares candidates to use scientific, research-based practices in curriculum, instruction and assessment for general and specialized education for grades PreK-12. Our program focuses on learning experiences that combine cognitive, neuroscientific and educational research. These experiences help students build capacity to meet the needs of all learners across diverse settings. We focus on the science of reading. Program candidates learn a structured literacy approach to teaching reading, writing and spelling using direct, explicit, systematic, cumulative, diagnostic and multi-modal practices. Online instructor-led learning experiences include frequent collaboration, guided inquiry and deliberate practice.
Why Bay Path?
The Reading and Literacy Instruction program provides:
- Deep preparation in the structures of language, oral language, phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, syntax, vocabulary, morphology, text comprehension, written expression and fluency.
- Experience in developing skills to serve in leadership, coaching and intervention roles.
- Acquisition of knowledge of assessments, curricula and instructional planning for students with specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, related disorders of reading and written language, and for second language learners.
- Development of expert-level ability to analyze and synthesize educational research to determine which research is reliable and valid.
Featured Courses
Orton Gillingham Training
Literacy and the Change Process: Action
Planning for a District or School
The Reading and Literacy Instruction Online program offers a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) and an Education Specialist Degree (EdS), an advanced degree beyond a master’s.
The Master's (MSEd and EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction offers two tracks:
- Initial Licensure: For students seeking a Massachusetts Initial License as a Reading Specialist (All Levels) ( There are specific state degree requirements for this program)
- Non-Licensure: For students seeking the MSEd or EdS degree without licensure
Reading Specialist Licensure Program Certificate
Bay Path's Graduate Reading Specialist Licensure Program Certificate is a 25 credit program for candidates seeking a Massachusetts Initial Licensure as a Reading Specialist (all levels). This license is a second initial license - applicants must have at least an initial license and have taught under that license for one year.

Request Information Today
Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Online Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start the Online Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree program?
Classes begin in May.
Can I complete the Online Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree while working full-time?
The majority of our students are working full-time and are able to manage their academic coursework with their outside commitments.
How many courses and credits will I need to complete?
The Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction degree program is a 39 credit consisting of 12 courses.
Is the Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree offered online?
Yes, the course schedule is 100% online with synchronous and asynchronous learning. The program is designed as a cohort model where students take courses in a sequential manner.
Do you offer MTEL preparation?
Yes. Bay Path University provides a prep training for the Reading Specialist Licensure MTEL.
How much is tuition for the Online Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree?
The cost per credit for the Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree is at the competitive rate of $560 per credit.
Can I get help paying for my Online Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction Degree ?
Yes, financial aid is available.
Do you accept transfer credits?
Graduate credits transfer credits are reviewed and determined by the program director.
Do I have to take a standardized test for admission?
No. The GMAT and GRE are not required.
Will I have access to learning resources?
Yes. Students have access to mentoring, tutoring, library resources, academic resources, and career services.
The Bay Path University Advantage in Education
A Tradition of Excellence
Our faculty draws from years of experience in the field as both academic experts and practitioners. Students learn the most current practices and policies. Bay Path has a tradition of excellence in teacher education. We consistently find outstanding placements for our graduates. Our students are often hired by the school district where they completed their practicum experience.
Professional Credentials
Bay Path offers a number of education programs approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for teacher certification as leading to an initial or professional teacher license in Massachusetts. In addition to meeting all degree requirements, students seeking certification must meet all testing requirements for their specific certification area as required by DESE.
Customized to your needs
Each program of study is individually designed with a program advisor and includes the option of licensure
or non-licensure. The MSEd combines the latest reading instruction theory with practical application. The EdS is an advanced degree that provides students who already have a master’s degree with an additional area of specialization.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Why choose Bay Path University for a Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction
Why choose Bay Path University for a Master's (MSEd/EdS) in Reading & Literacy Instruction
- For our in-depth study and training in a Structured Literacy Approach
- For our International Dyslexia Association Programs' accreditations
- For our faculty’s extensive experience as both educators and academics in the field of literacy instruction, curriculum and assessment with an emphasis on the science of reading.
- For the University’s strong reputation among principals who have hired Bay Path grads.
- For our virtual peer communities as you progress through the curriculum with your cohort of fellow students.
Janet Stratton, MEd, began her career in education as a classroom teacher before spending time as a reading specialist. Janet developed a reading specialist and principal licensure program for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education where she designed the program syllabi with course instructors and supervised teachers at the graduate level. She consults with schools about scientifically researched evidence-based instruction, curriculum and assessments.
The Bay Path Advantage
A Cutting Edge Curriculum
Our faculty draws from years of experience in the field and uses real world examples to teach an innovative and up to date curriculum
Accreditation and Rankings
Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Flexible and Affordable
As a non-profit university, Bay Path offers some of the lowest tuition rates in the North East. And as one of the first universities to pioneer online learning, we make sure you can study when it works for you.

Contact us today
for more information
Our Admissions Counselors can answer all your questions.