An online master’s degree in curriculum and instruction may provide students with the skills needed to supervise the curriculum and teaching standards in a school district. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to manage teacher development, review and choose textbooks for school children, and oversee the development of a school’s curriculum. Program coursework may include both educational electives and core coursework including classroom management, curriculum mapping, and educational technology.

Graduates may either seek employment or further their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in state education departments, government programs, local school districts, private schools, and universities.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 20% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level curriculum and instruction degree programs may include select curriculum and instruction courses alongside core specialization coursework. These courses may teach students how to utilize curriculum models to develop innovative lessons, provide effective leadership skills in schools, and provide an environment conducive to learning. Core curriculum and instruction courses may include the following:

• Classroom Management Strategies
• Foundations of Educational Leadership
• Curriculum Mapping
• Instruction and Assessment
• Educational Diversity
• Research in Education
• Educational Technology

Career Options

Master’s level graduates may pursue career opportunities at district education departments, non-profit organizations, universities, state education departments, and public school systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in curriculum and instruction are projected to increase by 20% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Instructional Coordinator
• School Principal
• Curriculum Specialist
• Curriculum and Test Developer
• Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree program in curriculum and instruction may choose to enroll in a doctoral degree program. Doctoral degree programs in curriculum and instruction may provide students with enhanced training in educational research and curriculum mapping, and may teach students how to lead and evaluate curriculum and instruction in the education system. Employers may require individuals to hold a master’s degree for select positions in curriculum and instruction.

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