Open new career avenues with KU’s online C&T master’s degrees and certificates
The University of Kansas Department of Curriculum and Teaching (C&T) offers degrees and certificates that prepare you for diverse careers. Ranked in the Top 20 by U.S. News & World Report for Best Education Schools, KU’s School of Education and Human Sciences programs provide skills that extend beyond the K-12 classroom, empowering you to succeed in a variety of fields.1
Whether you envision yourself as a guidance counselor, museum educator or local guide, GED teacher, educational consultant, university instructor, or private tutor, the University of Kansas online master’s programs in C&T provide the knowledge and expertise to help you thrive in these fulfilling fields.
With a degree or certificate from the Department of Curriculum & Teaching, you can leverage your educational background to make a positive impact outside of the traditional classroom setting.
“The faculty were understanding and responsive to questions, whether they were about course content, philosophy, teaching pedagogy, or anything else. I really can't say enough about this program, the professors, and the content. It's all really top-notch.”
Best Education Schools1
A truly flexible and convenient online learning experience
We understand that balancing education with other commitments can be challenging. That's why our C&T programs are delivered 100% online, offering you the flexibility to study at your own pace.
From our C&I program with a focus in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), KU’s programs deliver a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your chosen field.
KU’s online format allows you to pursue your degree or certificate without the need to relocate or disrupt your current lifestyle. You can seamlessly integrate your education with your work, family, and other commitments, empowering you to achieve your academic goals on your terms.
Take control of your learning journey and create a harmonious balance between your personal and professional life.
Program-specific key stats: The story behind the numbers
When you choose the Department of Curriculum and Teaching at the KU School of Education and Human Sciences, you can be confident in the quality and value of our programs.
Here are some program-specific key statistics that highlight the excellence of our offerings:
100% Alumni recommended
Based on self-reported data from alumni of the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences online programs in education from graduating cohorts between 2019 and 2024, an impressive 91% of our alumni recommend their C&T program.2
#20 nationally ranked
The KU C&T programs have achieved recognition and excellence, ranking as the #16 best C&T programs nationally. The KU School of Education and Human Sciences programs have achieved recognition and excellence, ranking as the #20 best education school nationally.1 This prestigious ranking reflects our commitment to delivering a top-tier education that prepares you for success in your chosen field.
100% online C&T programs built by real-world experts
At KU’s Department of Curriculum and Teaching, you will have the privilege of learning from our esteemed faculty who are renowned for their academic research and expertise. Our faculty members are dedicated to guiding you in acquiring effective tools and techniques that will empower you as an educator.
KU’s experienced educators bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the table, ensuring that you receive a well-rounded education that prepares you for the challenges and opportunities of the modern education landscape.
We take great pride in embracing and celebrating diversity at KU. Our learning environment fosters the convergence of perspectives from various racial, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This comprehensive exposure equips you with a broadened worldview, enabling you to navigate the complexities of modern education with cultural competence and inclusivity.
By embracing diversity, KU empowers you to make a positive impact not only within your classroom but also in your school, district, and even at the state or national level. Today’s districts could use top teaching talent: A staggering 27% of public schools reported multiple teaching vacancies in 2022.4
“Each course has a theoretical foundation. From there, students are encouraged to think about how practices engage with that foundation. Faculty have carefully built these courses to take into account recent developments. Courses are balanced to include not only the history of a field but how that history has shifted over time.”
— Dr. Heidi Hallman
Chair and Professor, Department of Curriculum and Teaching
University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences
What it means to be a part of the KU Jayhawk family
The University of Kansas Department of Curriculum and Teaching embodies the vibrant spirit of the Jayhawk tradition. We believe in nurturing the limitless potential of our students, preparing them to soar to new heights.
Our programs do more than just deliver the skills that open pathways to traditional K-12 classroom teaching roles. They are gateways to a world of endless possibilities and diverse professions.
Highlights of the KU School of Education and Human Sciences include:
- #38 Best Online Master's in Education Programs3
- #14 Best Online Master's in Education Programs for Veterans3
- #20 Best Education Schools3
- #2 Best Online Master's in Special Education Programs3
When you join KU’s Department of Curriculum & Teaching’s online master’s program, you become a proud ambassador of the storied University of Kansas Jayhawk tradition, name, and legacy.
The benefits of a degree or certificate from the Department of Curriculum & Teaching
Choosing a career in education is rewarding on many fronts. Teachers play a vital role in shaping future generations by providing knowledge and fostering values. The teaching environment is dynamic, and each day offers different learning opportunities. With the current changes in educational methods, having the right qualifications ensures teachers are up-to-date and effective in their roles.
Opting for KU’s online program is a smart choice for educators aiming to enhance their careers:
- Shaping communities: Teachers serve as vital community figures, shaping its future.
- Differentiating yourself: The teaching profession is always in demand, and obtaining a higher qualification distinguishes you.
- Tackling educational challenges: An online C&T degree allows educators to tackle current issues in the education sector effectively.
- Increasing earning potential: Holding a master's degree often leads to better salary opportunities.5
- Adapting to educational trends: With evolving student needs and teaching methods, a modern program prepares teachers to navigate these changes efficiently.
Meet today’s growing demands of education, exceed future expectations
An evolving education landscape requires dedicated professionals whose expertise and leadership will be pivotal in meeting the demands of an expanding student population. By pursuing a degree or certificate from the Department of Curriculum and Teaching, you position yourself to make a lasting impact in the lives of students.
Between the 1999-2000 and 2015-16 school years, the number of U.S. public school teachers increased from 3 million to 3.8 million. Simultaneously, K-12 student enrollment rose by 7%, from 45.9 million to 49 million.6
With these shifts, there's a clear demand for equipped and proactive educators to step up to the plate. Furthering your studies with a graduate degree at KU not only sets you on a path to personal advancement but positions you as someone with deep expertise.
Professional growth, higher salaries
Pursuing a graduate degree at KU not only enhances your teaching skills but also opens doors to career advancement. Graduates with a master's degree often enjoy higher salaries than bachelor’s and associate degree holders.5
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the highest 10% of teachers at the following educational levels, earned approximately:
- Elementary school: $101,3107
- Middle school: $100,5708
- High school: $101,1709
This financial benefit serves as a testament to the value placed on advanced education in the field of teaching.
When you invest in your professional growth through our programs, you position yourself for success and unlock opportunities for upward mobility. The expertise gained through our programs equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in your career, enabling you to maximize your potential and make a lasting impact on your students.
Join the Department of Curriculum and Teaching at the KU School of Education and Human Sciences to embark on a transformative journey. KU is committed to nurturing your growth, celebrating diversity, and addressing the critical needs of the education field.
Together, let's shape the future of education and empower the next generation of learners.
Department of Curriculum and Teaching Programs
Shaping the future of education, one specialization at a time.
KU’s Curriculum and Teaching programs shine, seamlessly blending core specializations, including the Science of Reading, to address the diverse challenges of contemporary education. As you explore our offerings, you'll find a foundational commitment to educational excellence, groundbreaking strides in literacy, and a robust embrace of multilingual communication.
Curriculum and Instruction
At KU, our curriculum and instruction teaching specialization empowers educators to become proficient in designing effective instructional strategies and developing impactful curricula.
As an essential component of the education field, this specialization equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a significant difference in the lives of students of all abilities and backgrounds.
KU offers online master’s-level C&I programs that can help educators make a difference with effective instructional practices and curriculum development strategies.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Earn your master’s or certificate in TESOL online to get better prepared to work with English-language learners from a multitude of cultures in your classroom and school. Enhance your ability to work with speakers of other languages across a wide range of settings and help your students make the most of the English language
Which online graduate program in TESOL is right for you?
- I want to pursue a master's degree to add a TESOL endorsement to my existing teaching license, enabling me to teach English-language learners in a classroom setting. This path is ideal for educators looking to transition to or start a career in TESOL. Explore the online master's in TESOL teacher track
- I want to pursue a master’s degree, but I am not seeking a TESOL licensure endorsement. This option is best suited for consultants, advocates, administrators, and similar professionals. Explore the online master's in TESOL non-teacher track
- I am not pursuing a master’s degree, but I want to add a TESOL endorsement to my existing teaching license so that I can teach TESOL in a classroom setting. This option is best for currently licensed teachers in states where an additional licensure endorsement in TESOL is required. Explore the online TESOL licensure endorsement-only track
- I already have a master's degree or am not ready for a full master's program, but I want to learn more about teaching English-language learners. Explore the online graduate certificate in TESOL
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- March 17, 2025, from https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/edu-rankings
- Based on a limited sample of self-reported data from alumni of the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences online programs in education from graduating cohorts between 2019 and 2024.
- Retrieved on March 17, 2025, from https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-kansas-155317
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/press_releases/12_6_2022.asp#:~:text=As%20of%20October%202022%2C%204,percent%20had%20multiple%20teaching%20vacancies
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2023/data-on-display/education-pays.htm
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/new-from-nea/who-average-us-teacher
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm#tab-5
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/middle-school-teachers.htm#tab-5
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm#tab-5