Master of Science in Literacy Education
Molloy University’s online master’s in literacy education prepares certified teachers to deepen their expertise and expand their reach through evidence-based instruction grounded in the Science of Reading and Writing. Our 33-credit online literacy education degree leads to New York State certification in Literacy (PreK–12), equipping you to teach, coach, and advocate for diverse learners across grade levels. Learn fully online, guided by expert faculty dedicated to transforming literacy instruction and empowering the next generation of readers.
About the Literacy Education Program
Molloy’s literacy education master’s degree is among only a handful of programs in New York State—and one of the few on Long Island and in New York City—offering a pathway to NYS Literacy (PreK–12) certification. Designed for teachers who already hold initial certification, this online literacy education degree empowers educators to become certified literacy specialists, reading teachers, and instructional leaders prepared to improve literacy outcomes for diverse learners.
Grounded in the New York State P–12 Learning Standards for ELA and Literacy, the 33-credit curriculum integrates theory, research, and hands-on practice. You’ll study language acquisition, literacy assessment and intervention, and leadership in literacy education, learning to implement evidence-based strategies that address reading difficulties and promote inclusive instruction.
Graduates are prepared to lead literacy programs that are both research-driven and responsive to the needs of every student.
Benefits of Molloy’s Literacy Education Program
Flexible Online Learning
Complete your master’s in literacy education 100% online, with select courses offered in convenient seven-week sessions. The program is structured for working educators who want to advance their credentials without putting their careers on pause. Most students finish in two years while continuing to teach.
New York State Certification in Literacy (PreK–12)
Graduates qualify for NYS certification, allowing them to teach literacy across grade levels or lead as reading teachers, literacy specialists, and instructional coaches. The certification opens doors to roles where you can guide curriculum, support struggling readers, and shape whole-school literacy initiatives.
Faculty Expertise and Mentorship
Molloy’s faculty share a deep foundation in teacher preparation, multilingual education, and literacy leadership. Many are recognized experts in dyslexia and literacy intervention, actively engaged in research that bridges science and classroom practice. Small classes ensure individualized advisement and mentorship throughout your studies.
Experiential Learning and Professional Community
Learning extends beyond coursework. Candidates observe the Science of Reading in action through field experiences and literacy diagnostics, applying strategies in real-world contexts. Students also join professional organizations, such as Kappa Delta Pi and Molloy’s Graduate Student Leadership Association, and participate in networking events that foster career connections across Long Island and New York City.
Small Classes and Personalized Support
Experience a supportive, close-knit community where collaboration and feedback drive growth. Small class sizes encourage meaningful discussion and professional networking with peers and faculty.
Molloy also offers competitive tuition rates for graduate study, and scholarships, school-based awards, and graduate assistantships are available for qualified students.
Careers for Literacy Education Graduates
The demand for skilled literacy specialists continues to grow as schools nationwide adopt evidence-based reading instruction. Graduates of Molloy’s online master’s in literacy education are equipped to meet this need, bringing both research insight and classroom experience to their roles.
Career outcomes include:
- Literacy Specialist or Coordinator
- Reading Teacher or Reading Specialist
- Staff Developer or Instructional Coach
- Literacy Consultant or Instructional Leader
The Science of Reading: Bridging Research and Practice
Molloy’s curriculum is built on the Science of Reading, a research-based understanding of how students learn to read and write. Courses such as Science of Reading: Birth Through Grade 12 and Diagnostics and Remediation for Literacy Development give you practical tools for teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, oral language, and writing instruction. You’ll learn to diagnose literacy challenges, design targeted interventions, and measure growth using evidence-based assessment methods.
Global and Local Relevance
Literacy is recognized worldwide as a cornerstone of opportunity and equity. In New York and beyond, policymakers and educators are investing in phonics-based instruction and foundational learning to close achievement gaps. Molloy’s literacy education master’s program prepares you to meet these challenges, combining rigorous academics with real-world applications and a commitment to social justice through education.
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Take the Next Step in Your Education Career
Join one of New York’s few online literacy education master’s programs. Strengthen your impact, advance your career, and help every student reach their fullest potential through literacy.