Is a master's in curriculum and instruction worth it?

Educating students requires both a clear plan and the skills to deliver that plan effectively. For educators looking to expand their influence beyond a single classroom and start leading a curriculum team or stepping into a district-level role, graduate programs in education offer a pathway to leadership. If you want to drive school-wide improvement and support your fellow teachers, you may be asking: is a master's in curriculum and instruction worth it? This post explores the meaning of these core concepts, the career benefits of the degree, and what you can expect from an advanced education program.

Understanding curriculum and instruction

When evaluating this career path, it is helpful to first clarify the terminology within the curriculum and instruction field. What does "curriculum" mean in education? According to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), state standards act as goals that outline what students should know at each grade level.¹ A fully realized curriculum often includes the content, lessons, and materials that support these standards across subjects such as math, science, and fine arts.¹

How do professionals define instruction in education? Instruction refers to the implementation of evidence-based lesson design, meaningful student engagement, and learning activities aligned to curricular standards.² Quality instruction also requires a data-driven system of differentiated support to help each student succeed in the classroom.²

In short, curriculum defines what students learn, while instruction determines how that learning is delivered and supported in the classroom.

What does a master's in curriculum and instruction do?

If you are exploring this academic path, you might wonder what a master's in curriculum and instruction does for your career. A practitioner-focused program helps current educators—including classroom teachers and instructional coaches—transition into instructional leaders. It does so by providing them with advanced teaching strategies and curriculum development principles.

For example, the online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) in Curriculum and Instruction* at the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences consists of 10 courses delivered in an eight-week format. Students complete 30 credit hours over two years, concluding their studies with a comprehensive capstone portfolio. Throughout their coursework, students learn to critique research, integrate educational technology, and create practical tools for immediate classroom use.

Why get a master's in curriculum and instruction?

So, why get a master's in curriculum and instruction? The primary benefits of a master's in curriculum and instruction center around the ability to elevate teaching standards and guide systemic educational improvements. Graduates frequently pursue roles as instructional coordinators, who oversee school curricula and develop instructional material.³

Beyond instructional coordinator positions, graduates may also find opportunities in roles such as academic coaching, professional development facilitation, or district-level curriculum planning.

Instructional coordinators perform many crucial duties, such as:

• Analyzing student test data to evaluate curriculum effectiveness
•  Recommending teaching techniques and technologies to faculty
• Mentoring teachers to improve classroom outcomes
•  Training educators on new instructional strategies

In public schools, instructional coordinators are typically required to hold a master's degree in education or curriculum and instruction.³ In addition, the expertise gained in this program helps address ongoing challenges in the education sector, providing support like skilled instructional coordinates who are vital for teacher retention and overall school success.⁴

Career outcomes and salary potential

Earning a master's in curriculum and instruction opens doors to steady career prospects and increased earning potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that instructional coordinators held about 232,600 jobs in 2023, with the majority employed in local elementary and secondary schools.³

The median annual wage—meaning half earned more and half earned less—for instructional coordinators was $74,620 in May 2023, with the highest ten percent earning more than $109,500.⁵ Earning an advanced degree also correlates with higher pay for classroom teachers. In the 2020–21 academic year, the average base salary for public school teachers with a master's degree was $14,500 higher than for those with only a bachelor's degree.⁶

Advance your career with KU

When considering the time and financial investment, is a master's in curriculum and instruction worth it? For educators passionate about shaping the future of learning, earning an online master's in curriculum and instruction from the University of Kansas can help you pursue long-term career goals in education.

KU School of Education graduates can develop skills to drive meaningful change, using advanced curriculum design for classrooms and leading evidence-based professional development. By learning from expert faculty, you will build the foundational knowledge necessary for modern educational leadership roles.

If you're ready to take the next step in your professional journey, you can review admissions requirements and explore financial aid opportunities to help fund your education. Reach out to an admissions outreach advisor today to begin.