Best Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
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 2% between 2023 and 2033. These professionals earned median annual salaries of $74,720, with the top 10% of earners making $109,500 that year.
This guide ranks the best online master’s in curriculum and instruction programs to help students find the right online college for their needs. It also covers important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
Best Master’s in Curriculum Instruction Degree Programs Online
The University of Georgia
Athens, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online curriculum and instructional design degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Georgia, located in Athens. The master of education in learning, design and technology: instructional design and development program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to curriculum and instructional design. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The admission requirements include a background in curriculum and instructional design or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Education in Learning, Design and Technology: Instructional Design and Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$28,830
- In-State$8,878
- Out-of-state$25,186
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled41,615
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University offers an online master's in curriculum and instructional design. The master of science in curriculum and instruction builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in curriculum and instructional design typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
- In-State$5,616
- Out-of-state$18,746
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$26,657
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate25%
- Students Enrolled43,234
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in curriculum and instruction program, offered by Texas A&M University from its College Station campus, ranks as a top program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of education in curriculum and instruction program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in curriculum and instruction. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on prior curriculum and instruction experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
- In-State$8,443
- Out-of-state$36,637
- In-State$7,057
- Out-of-state$20,054
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled76,633
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in University Park, Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers an online master's in curriculum and instruction. The master of education in curriculum and instruction program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to curriculum and instruction. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in curriculum and instruction or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
- In-State$15,204
- Out-of-state$15,204
- In-State$24,406
- Out-of-state$24,406
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled13,564
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Online
Based in Pensacola, the University of West Florida hosts a top-rated online master's in curriculum and instructional design. The master of education in instructional design and performance technology program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores curriculum and instructional design research and methodologies. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a background in curriculum and instructional design may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 31%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Instructional Design and Performance Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled14,371
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in curriculum and instructional design program at North Carolina State University, located in Raleigh, offers a flexible online format. The master of education in training and development program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the curriculum and instructional design field and related industries. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores curriculum and instructional design research and methodologies. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a background in curriculum and instructional design may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
North Carolina State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Education in Training and Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
- In-State$6,535
- Out-of-state$29,407
- In-State$9,459
- Out-of-state$29,433
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate40%
- Students Enrolled37,314
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in curriculum and instruction at Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro, offers high academic quality. The master of education in curriculum and instruction – accomplished teaching program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in curriculum and instruction. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in curriculum and instruction before applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Accomplished Teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
- In-State$5,464
- Out-of-state$19,282
- In-State$5,816
- Out-of-state$23,204
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled26,106
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
California State University, Fullerton offers an online master's in curriculum and instructional design. The master of science in instructional design and technology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in curriculum and instructional design or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
California State University, Fullerton at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled41,962
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Georgia
- Carrollton, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of West Georgia, located in Carrollton, offers a flexible online master's in curriculum and instructional design. The master of arts in teaching: special education - general curriculum program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in curriculum and instructional design before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Arts in Teaching: Special Education - General Curriculum
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,830
- In-State$5,464
- Out-of-state$19,282
- In-State$4,338
- Out-of-state$16,830
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled12,769
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online curriculum and instructional design degree can enroll in the master's program at Georgia State University, located in Atlanta. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in instructional design and technology program. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of curriculum and instructional design. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in curriculum and instructional design or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Georgia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,164
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,662
- In-State$8,948
- Out-of-state$27,986
- In-State$9,552
- Out-of-state$30,216
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled34,995
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Masters in Curriculum and Instruction
2024
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.
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.
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.
Featured Education Programs
What To 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.
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 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.
