Online programs in curriculum and instruction at KU
If you imagine every class as a chance to build your students’ knowledge, then your curriculum is the blueprint that makes it all possible.
The more you focus on the educational foundations that guide your classroom, the more you and your students will benefit. By developing your strengths as an instructor and learning to build a stronger curriculum, you can give your students the best possible advantage—in the area of education you want to impact the most:
- Curriculum and instruction
- Reading education
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
But before you build the perfect course content for your students, you need to have the right tools. With a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction* from the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences from the Department of Curriculum and Teaching, you'll learn to develop more effective instructional approaches, evaluate how well your students are learning, and integrate new technology and teaching strategies into class time.
KU’s thoughtful training and proven methods will help you lead your classroom with confidence and clarity, giving you more time to focus on your students.
Engage with KU’s leading researchers and experts in education
One of the unique advantages of our program is the caliber of professors and program directors who actively engage in relevant research within the education field. At The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Services (KU SOEHS),
the Department of Curriculum and Teaching Chair, Dr. Heidi Hallman is involved in various research projects that shape the future of education but also directly benefit curriculum and instruction master’s students.
As an associate editor for the Journal of Teacher Education, a leading publication in the field of teacher education, focusing on research, theory, and practice in teacher preparation, Dr. Hallman has a deep understanding of the latest developments in teacher education.
She encounters numerous manuscripts that provide valuable insights into effective teaching practices. Drawing from her experiences, she incorporates virtual collaborative developments into her courses, ensuring that her students are exposed to innovative and relevant teaching methods.
By enrolling in our master of science in curriculum and instruction, you not only gain access to cutting-edge research but also have the opportunity to learn directly from experts like Dr. Hallmann.
In a recent video, Dr. Hallman discusses the merits of KU’s C&I program for today’s educators.
Heidi Hallman
Chair and Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Teaching
Course(s) Taught:
- C&T 741: Comprehension and Study Strategies for Use with Multiple Texts
Research interests:
- Sociocultural theories of language and literacy
- Social contexts of language and literacy development
- At-risk learners
- Ethnographic and qualitative approaches to research
Challenge yourself to become a better educator, leader, or administrator.
The KU School of Education and Human Sciences offers online master's programs that pair the academic rigor of a highly respected university with a flexible schedule to accommodate your busy life.
To stay ahead of the curve, the online master’s degree in curriculum and instruction blends the latest theories with practical, hands-on implementation. A practitioner-focused approach means everything you learn can be applied directly to your own classroom.
Ultimately, you'll improve not only your own curriculum development skills but also the educational experience of the students whose lives you touch. From there, your positive influence can reach an individual class or an entire school or district, by bringing advanced skills to classrooms in reading education, TESOL, and curriculum and instruction.
Download a copy of our online curriculum and instruction master's program sheet
Advancing in education: How a master’s in C&I enhances leadership skills and opportunities
In today's swiftly evolving educational landscape, the demand for educators equipped with advanced skills is more pronounced than ever.
Taking the step to pursue your online master's in curriculum and instruction not only augments your existing teaching capabilities but can also help open doors to leadership roles, paving the way for a transformative impact in schools and beyond.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) underscored the value of advanced degrees and proper certification in education; With the majority of teachers holding standard state teaching certificates, having specialized training can help you stand out.2
Earning an online Master's degree in C&I at KU provides the unique benefit of delving into specific, in-demand areas of expertise within the curriculum:
Master’s in C&I - Curriculum & Instruction:
Focused on shaping the very heart of the teaching-learning process, this degree specialization hones in on innovative instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and the creation of comprehensive curricula tailored to diverse student populations. As educational institutions grapple with a rapidly changing world, professionals with a strong grounding in curriculum development are pivotal in driving success.
Master’s in C&I - Reading:
Literacy is the cornerstone of education. A specialization in reading emphasizes skills necessary to foster literacy development at all grade levels. It prepares educators to address diverse reading needs, incorporate the latest literacy research into classroom strategies, and serve as reading specialists or literacy coaches. In a digital age where comprehension skills are vital, this specialization ensures students are equipped to decipher, understand, and engage with various texts.
Master’s in C&I - TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages):
With globalization and diverse classrooms, the demand for TESOL specialists has skyrocketed. This specialization equips educators with techniques to support English Language Learners (ELLs) effectively, ensuring they don't lag behind due to language barriers. Culturally responsive teaching, curriculum adaptation, and understanding language acquisition are just some of the invaluable skills acquired.
As educational districts continue to face challenges in filling positions across grade levels and subjects, educators with specialized skills are in high demand.2
Online curriculum and instruction program course highlights
KU’s meticulously crafted curriculum and online learning platform are specifically designed to enhance your expertise in the field of education, focusing on advanced instructional techniques and leadership skills that will give you a competitive edge.
Take a glimpse at some of the courses offered, showcasing the breadth of the program and how it equips you with an integrated executive skill set.
C&T 770: Pedagogical Considerations in the 21st Century Classroom delves into the analysis of learning theories and instructional strategies for effective teaching. This course bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and pedagogical practices. Key topics covered include:
- Exploring current learning theories and cognitive learning theories
- Analyzing 21st-century learning environments
- Implementing instructional strategies
- Fostering critical thinking skills
C&T 807: Multicultural Education explores theoretical foundations and practical strategies for promoting social equity and educational equality. This course analyzes systematic schooling inequities, examines the experiences of students and communities of color, and addresses forms of oppression. You will gain insights into the social construction of identity and its impact on teaching and learning in diverse public schools.
C&T 874: Constructivist Learning Technologies explores the design and use of new educational technologies to support constructivist learning. Throughout the course, students will:
- Get hands-on experiences with emerging educational technologies
- Examine how the underlying learning theories are reified into concrete learning environment
- Analyze how the affordances of new technologies (e.g., modeling and visualization) can facilitate constructivist learning processes
Earn your degree in as few as two years
Program details
- 10 courses, 8 weeks per course, 30 credit hours
- Graduate in as few as two years
- Ranked #19 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report1
- Learn from renowned faculty with extensively published research and diverse real-world experience
- Create a working instructional portfolio that can be directly applied in your own classroom
- Complete your coursework anytime, anywhere, through our innovative online format
- No GRE required for admission
- There is no practicum or residency requirement for this program
What you'll learn
The online curriculum and instruction master's degree prepares you to be the best teacher you can be—in the area you are most passionate about: Curriculum and Instruction, Reading, or TESOL.
Learning Outcome 1: Teaching and Learning
Demonstrates in-depth knowledge, skills, and an understanding of critical concepts and principles specific to the field of study (General Curriculum & Instruction, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, or Reading/Literacy).
- Curriculum and Instruction: Demonstrate understanding of basic concepts and processes of curriculum and instruction (theories, planning models, current trends) and how they connect to the candidate’s context.
- Delivery: Plan and implement appropriate and varied instructional practices, strategies, and methods to differentiate instruction, engage students/learners, and improve learning.
- Standards: Use and apply standards relevant to the candidate’s context to design, implement, and/or assess learning experiences.
- Assessment: Analyze a variety of assessments (or other types of data and evidence) to inform instruction, monitor progress, and/or support and improve learning. This could include the planning and use of a variety of assessments.
- Technology: Demonstrate appropriate applications of technology by creating experiences and opportunities for learners to engage with technology to enhance and extend their learning.
Learning Outcome 2: Identities, Communities, and Inclusive Learning Contexts
- Demonstrate use of critical self-reflection to understand one’s own identity and the ways in which identity, oppression, and privilege influence individuals and their experiences in schools and communities.
- Demonstrate commitment to and evidence of practices that foster inclusive environments and learning opportunities in the candidate’s context.
Learning Outcome 3: Professionalism and Leadership
Demonstrate professional growth and leadership by documenting the candidate’s current or future role in facilitating and/or participating in collaborative professional activities with others in the candidate’s school or community (such as colleagues, teachers, administrations, community organizations, families, or parents/guardians).
For more detailed information on the topics covered in this program, view the course listings.
Career outcomes
As you consider the online master's degree in curriculum and instruction, you might find yourself wondering what exactly you can do with the degree. Master’s in curriculum and instruction jobs are unique because of the degree’s specialized focus on curriculum composition and teaching methods; it not only applies to traditional education roles, but it also opens up additional career paths in administration and even business.
When it comes to master’s in curriculum and instruction jobs, there are a few professional routes available to you. You can:
- Enhance your career as an educator
- Move into another grade level or school
- Transition to an administrative or leadership role
However, you will also gain tactical expertise and a standout credential to pursue one of the following positions at the school or district level:
- Curriculum developer
- Instructional coordinator
- Education consultant
- Curriculum development consultant
- Assistant principal or principal (depending on the state)
You can find information about job opportunities and more on the Careers page.
*This program is an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) degree in curriculum and instruction. It does not lead to initial nor advanced teaching licensure in the state of Kansas.
Prior teaching experience is not required but is strongly recommended.
Note: In order to enroll in this curriculum and instruction master’s program, a bachelor's degree is required. No program can guarantee licensure. It is each student’s responsibility to determine the licensure requirements in his or her state and to apply for the licenses or endorsements necessary to his or her career goals. Our department staff and licensure officer can provide individual support during the application process to help you understand your state’s requirements.
Online curriculum and instruction master’s: Course descriptions
Our master’s degree in curriculum and instruction is for current educators and teachers who want to learn more about effective instructional practices and curriculum development to make a difference. Here, you can read more about the courses available to those pursuing a master’s in curriculum and instruction online at the KU School of Education and Human Sciences. All courses listed are worth 3 credits.
Please note: Course list and sequence is subject to change.
C&T 709 - FOUNDATIONS OF CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
C&T 807 - MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION
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C&T 806 - INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES & MODELS
EPSY 715 - UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH IN EDUCATION
Students should expect to study much of this material in greater depth through additional coursework before being fully prepared to conduct independent research. However this course should enhance their ability to locate, read, comprehend, and critically analyze research articles and reports. Topics in the course include quantitative and qualitative methods and designs, historical and descriptive research, and program evaluation.
C&T 803 - DIFFERENTIATING CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION
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C&T 874 - CONSTRUCTIVIST LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES
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C&T 802 - CURRICULUM PLANNING FOR EDUCATION SETTINGS
C&T 770 - PEDAGOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE 21ST CENTURY CLASSROOM
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C&T 801 - PLANNING FOR SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT
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C&T 890 - Bridging Theory to Practice: Capstone Portfolio
Why should you obtain an online C&I MSE?
- Enhanced instructional skills: KU’s C&I online MSE program improves your instructional approaches and integrates new technologies to deliver high-quality education
- Career advancement: An advanced curriculum and instruction degree opens opportunities for career growth and positions you for leadership roles in education
- Specialized expertise: Develop expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, and pedagogical approaches for impactful teaching
- Influence student outcomes: Create inclusive learning environments and address diverse student needs for improved student outcomes
Why should you elevate your curriculum and instruction capabilities?
- Make a difference: Shape the lives of students and have a positive impact on their learning and development
- Influence future generations: Impart knowledge, skills, and values to help students become informed and responsible global citizens
- Lifelong learning: Teaching encourages continuous learning, exploring innovative methods, and staying up-to-date with research and trends
- Job satisfaction: Experience fulfillment by witnessing student growth and knowing you've contributed to their development
Who is this degree for?
- Educators and teachers: Deepen knowledge and expertise in curriculum and instruction
- Aspiring leaders: Prepare for leadership roles in curriculum development, instructional coaching, or department leadership
- Instructional specialists: Specialize in designing effective strategies to meet diverse student needs
- Passionate educators: Stay ahead in the field by learning the latest theories and practices in curriculum and instruction
- Others: Those interested in teaching and learning outside of traditional educational contexts.
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- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-kansas-155317
- Retrieved on July 17, 2023, from nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/clr