An online doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction may provide students with the skills and expertise required to develop and map innovative curricula for the education system. In this three to five-year program, students may learn how to conduct innovative educational research, develop assessment-driven instructional methods, and implement current research to enhance higher education. Program coursework may include dissertation courses alongside major-specific coursework including teacher supervision, advanced instruction, and educational research methods.

Graduates may seek entry to upper-level employment in the education field. Doctoral-level graduates may find employment in higher education, district administration, public and charter schools, post-secondary education, and adult education.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 20% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level degree programs may include select research-based dissertation courses as well as core education coursework. These courses may teach students how to evaluate current curriculum, conduct research to develop enhancements to curriculum, and lead educational organizations. Core curriculum and instruction courses may include the following:

• Principles of Education Administration
• Teacher Supervision and Evaluation
• Advanced Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Research Methods
• Advanced Instruction and Assessment
• Educational Philosophy and Change
• Education and the Law

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may pursue opportunities in adult education, public schools, charter schools, post-secondary education, and school district offices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in curriculum and instruction are expected to increase by 20% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• School Administrator
• University Professor
• Instructional Coordinator
• Director of Instruction
• Director of Assessment

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook