Online master's in curriculum and instruction programs appeal to teachers with classroom experience who want to advance their careers.
Students gain the skills needed to develop teaching standards and create educational materials and programs, preparing for in-demand jobs, such as instructional coordinator.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for instructional coordinators to grow 6% between 2018 and 2028. These professionals earned median annual salaries of $64,450 in 2018, with the top 10% of earners making more than $102,200 that year.
This guide ranks the best online master's in curriculum and instruction programs to help students find the right program for their needs. It also covers important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
| #1 | Boston University | Boston, MA |
| #2 | University of Virginia | Charlottesville, VA |
| #3 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL |
| #4 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI |
| #5 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL |
| #6 | University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS |
| #7 | University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH |
| #8 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL |
| #9 | Texas A & M University – College Station | College Station, TX |
| #10 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA |
The Best Online Master’s in Curriculum Instruction Degree Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Boston University |
Boston, MA Apply Now | ||
| 2 |
University of Virginia |
Charlottesville, VA Apply Now | ||
| 3 |
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
Champaign, IL Apply Now | ||
| 4 |
Michigan State University |
East Lansing, MI Apply Now | ||
| 5 |
University of Florida |
Gainesville, FL Apply Now | ||
| 6 |
University of Kansas |
Lawrence, KS Apply Now | ||
| 7 |
University of Cincinnati |
Cincinnati, OH Apply Now | ||
| 8 |
Florida State University |
Tallahassee, FL Apply Now | ||
| 9 |
Texas A & M University – College Station |
College Station, TX Apply Now | ||
| 10 |
George Mason University |
Fairfax, VA Apply Now |
End of list, bravo!
Online Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Program
When researching online master's in curriculum and instruction programs, students should consider factors such as program cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. The following list outlines several important considerations for prospective students.
Program Cost
Public schools typically cost less than private schools, and in-state students often pay less than out-of-state students. However, many schools allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency, so be sure to do your research.
Transfer Policies
Many schools offer transfer credits for prior academic, professional, volunteer, or military experience. Generous transfer policies can help students save time and money on a degree.
School Size and Type
A school's size and type can affect factors like cost, class sizes, and student engagement. For example, a small private school may cost more but also offer more individualized attention from faculty than a larger public school.
Program Length
While most programs require two years of full-time study, some programs offer accelerated timelines that allow students to graduate in just one year.
On-Campus Requirement
Some online master's in curriculum and instruction programs have on-campus requirements. Students should ensure they can meet these requirements before committing to a program.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements
Some programs require learners to write a thesis, while others require an in-person practicum. Students should choose a program with requirements that align with their interests and goals.
What Is Curriculum and Instruction?
Curriculum and instruction professionals often work in public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, developing and implementing new teaching standards, educational programs, and instructional materials. They may also work in social service agencies focused on adult education or oversee training programs for businesses or nonprofit organizations.
Students pursuing an online master's degree in curriculum and instruction can often specialize the degree through concentrations in areas such as adult education, gifted education, inclusive classroom instruction, and special education. Many master's in curriculum and instruction programs require applicants to have some relevant experience. They also typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field.
What Is a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Degree?
A master's degree in curriculum and instruction gives learners the skills and knowledge they need to oversee curricular decision-making. Students learn how to create protocols for differentiated learning; evaluate new textbooks and teaching materials; create plans and programs aligned to testing standards; and meet local, state, and federal regulations. They also learn how to train teachers in new methodologies.
Most degree-seekers have at least two years of classroom experience when they apply. Earning a master's in curriculum and instruction online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Graduates can make informed decisions, implement large-scale plans, and provide leadership through times of transition.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Program?
Master's in curriculum and instruction programs commonly examine topics such as student learning assessments, differentiated instruction, and curriculum design and evaluation. In addition to coursework, these programs may have thesis or practicum requirements.
Students can further specialize their skills through related certificates in areas like instructional assessments; elementary, middle, or high school curriculum and instruction; and special education curriculum development.
Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Program Courses
- Theories of Learning: This survey class provides an overview of various learning theories and how they inform personal learning, cognition, behavior, and growth mindsets. Students examine both historic and contemporary learning theories.
- Teaching Diverse Learners: This course focuses on creating differentiated learning approaches for learners with various learning abilities and exceptionalities. Students learn how to provide culturally sensitive teaching materials to support learners from myriad backgrounds. They also learn teaching approaches for gifted and special education programs.
- Educational Psychology: Educational psychology examines psychological theories and principles used in developing and implementing instructional materials. Students explore topics like social development, cognitive development, and cultural awareness.
- Curriculum Design: This course covers curriculum design theories and how they relate to educational standards set by schools and governments. Students gain skills in curriculum development, design, and modification.
- Pedagogy: This course examines teaching methods and instructional strategies. Learners study topics like activity design, memory and metacognition, learning theories, and mental models and conceptual change.
Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Certifications and Licenses
Many curriculum and instruction professionals need a state license to work in public schools. Professionals may need a teaching license or an educational administrator license if working as instructional coordinators. Educational administrator licensure requirements vary by state, but they typically include a master's degree from an accredited institution, previous teaching experience, and completion of a practicum.
Licensure candidates may also need to take edTPA or Praxis exams or a subject area test. Additionally, some states may require national board certification. Because every state sets unique requirements, newly located instructional coordinators may need to meet additional requirements to earn licensure in a new state.
Curriculum and Instruction Careers
Graduates with a master's degree in curriculum and instruction can pursue roles in classroom teaching, administration, curriculum design and implementation, and teacher coaching. Below, we cover several common careers and potential salaries for graduates.
Instructional Coordinators
| Median Salary: $64,450 | Projected Job Growth: 6% |
|---|
Instructional coordinators work with school administrators, teachers, and local boards of education to design and implement new teaching standards and instructional materials. They also train educators on how to implement new materials and standards.
Instructional coordinators need relevant work experience and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction or a related field. Some states also require these professionals to hold a teaching or education administrator license.
Special Education Teachers
| Median Salary: $59,780 | Projected Job Growth: 3% |
|---|
Special education teachers work in K-12 settings at public and private schools, instructing students with learning exceptionalities. They conduct individual assessments to provide appropriate instruction and work with other teachers to ensure activities engage learners at their ability levels.
Special education teachers need at least a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Some states require a degree in special education, while others accept general degrees in education or particular content areas. All public schools also require state licensure.
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
| Median Salary: $57,980 | Projected Job Growth: 3% |
|---|
These professionals help K-6 students develop the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to advance to middle school. They develop and teach lesson plans, create assessments, and grade assignments.
K-6 teachers need at least a bachelor's degree in education. Some states require teachers to hold a degree in one or more subject areas, such as math, reading, or music, and to have student-teaching experience. Teachers in public schools also need state licensure.
High School Teachers
| Median Salary: $60,320 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
High school teachers instruct students in grades 9-12. They teach individual subjects and AP courses, help learners prepare for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, and write letters of recommendation for students applying to college.
High school teachers need at least a bachelor's degree. They also need state licensure if they want to work in a public school.
School Principals
| Median Salary: $95,310 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
School principals oversee K-12 learning institutions. They manage staff, develop class schedules, set and maintain curricular standards, and provide student discipline when needed. They also communicate with parents about student progress.
School principals need a master's degree in education administration or a related subject. They also need teaching experience and a school administrator license when working in a public school.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Curriculum and Instruction Degree Programs
When researching prospective online master's in curriculum and instruction programs, students should consider a school's accreditation status. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty quality, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and credits from accredited institutions. Many employers also prefer candidates with an accredited degree.
Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Programs within a school may also receive accreditation, such as social work, business, and education programs. The Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation accredits education programs.
Curriculum and Instruction Professional Organizations
Curriculum and instruction students and professionals benefit from joining professional organizations, which often offer networking opportunities, continuing education courses, and professional resources. They may also provide access to advocacy services, professional discounts, and conferences and workshops.
- Association of American Educators AAE is the largest nonunion association dedicated to professional educators. Members can access professional resources, scholarships and grants, state chapters and partnerships, and several in-house publications.
- American Federation of Teachers AFT represents more than 1.7 million educators throughout the United States. The organization provides legislative advocacy and offers networking opportunities.
- Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development ASCD is an international organization that represents more than 113,000 supervision and curriculum development professionals across 130 countries. Members can access industry publications, professional learning opportunities, annual conferences, and a subscription to Educational Leadership.
