Master's Degree in Education - Literacy
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master’s program in literacy is ideal for individuals passionate about improving reading and writing skills across various age groups and educational settings. Graduates often pursue careers as literacy specialists, reading teachers, or curriculum developers, specializing in areas such as early literacy, adult education, and literacy intervention strategies.
Program Overview
Make an impact as a literacy specialist in the Master of Arts in Education with the Literacy Specialist Endorsement P-12 program at the University of Kentucky. Prepare to address literacy challenges in educational and community settings through a variety of graduate-level courses, field experiences in local schools, and research opportunities with faculty. The program leads to certification as a Literacy Specialist P-12 in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Apply through the UK Graduate School system and include the following:
• Resume or CV
• Personal Statement- should include your goals upon completing this degree
• Academic writing sample
• Three letters of recommendation
The GRE is NOT required for admission to this program.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
-
Fall
- 07/25/2025
-
Spring
- 12/12/2025
-
Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
-
Fall
- 04/15/2025
-
Spring
- 09/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Through clinical experiences, coursework, and job-embedded practice, the Literacy Specialist program with rank change in the College of Education’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction will prepare literacy professionals (e.g., literacy specialists, literacy coaches, Rank I or Rank II) to:
- Develop literacy content knowledge
- Apply theories and research appropriately to inform instruction and assessment
- Critically evaluate literacy methods, practices, and policies
- Pursue ongoing professional learning
- Apply knowledge of language and literacy development, and its typical degree of variation, to inform instruction and assessment
- Cultivate professional dispositions (e.g., value diversity, communicate effectively, demonstrate professional ethics, etc.)
- Demonstrate literacy leadership in varied contexts
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
