MS in Curriculum & Instruction Courses & Curriculum

The online Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction provides candidates with both a theoretical base and opportunity for practical application within the areas of educational foundations, curriculum theory, instructional best practices, and educational research.

The core requirements provide not only a theoretical base, but an opportunity to conduct action research in the classroom with the purpose of providing a solid research base that is appropriate for the P-12 teacher who seeks a means by which to increase student achievement. In addition to the core, students must select an emphasis in one of the following areas:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education emphasis equips educators with AI fundamentals, instructional applications, and ethical considerations to enhance teaching and prepare students for a digital future.

Biology emphasis provides a graduate-level foundation in biology and scientific inquiry, preparing educators to teach complex concepts through real-world application.

Chemistry emphasis builds advanced knowledge of chemistry and analytical problem solving, supporting effective teaching of complex scientific concepts.

Content Specialization emphasis allows educators to deepen expertise in a chosen subject area to enhance instructional effectiveness and meet specific career goals.

Kodály emphasis introduces music educators to the Kodály approach, an experience-based method that develops musical literacy through singing and sequential skill-building.

Literacy emphasis builds expertise in reading, writing, and literacy instruction through assessment, intervention, and content-area strategies to support diverse learners.

Mathematics emphasis strengthens understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving while advancing effective strategies for teaching critical thinking and reasoning.

Special Education emphasis prepares educators to support students with diverse learning needs through inclusive practices, individualized instruction, and knowledge of special education policies.

Teacher Leadership emphasis develops educators’ leadership skills to enhance classroom practice and prepare for roles such as instructional coach, team leader, department chair, or mentor teacher.

Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Degree Options

• Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education emphasis
  • Biology emphasis
  • Chemistry emphasis
  • Content Specialization emphasis
  • Kodaly emphasis
  • Literacy emphasis
  • Mathematics emphasis
  • Special Education emphasis
  • Teacher Leadership emphasis

Graduate Certificates

• Biology graduate certificate
• Chemistry graduate certificate
• Kodaly graduate certificate
• Mathematics graduate certificate
• Teacher Leadership graduate certificate

MS in Curriculum & Instruction Degree Requirements

The MS in Curriculum & Instruction must be completed fully online. The 32- to 33-credit program has 17 credits of core requirements, with an additional 15 to 16 credits through an emphasis.

Core Requirements (17 credits)

• ED 601 Psychological Foundations of Education (2)
• ED 695C Curriculum and Instruction E-Folio Introduction (1)
• ED 695D Curriculum and Instruction E-Folio Presentation (1)
• ED 613 Social, Cultural, Political and Community Dimensions of Education (4)
• ED 632 Curriculum, Instruction, and Learning Theory (4)
• ED 627 Emerging Technologies (2) OR
• MATH 515 Tools and Technology for Secondary Mathematics (2)
• SPED 664 Theory and Process of Consultation and Collaboration (3)

Emphasis Requirements (15-16 credits)

Click below to learn more about the required courses in each emphasis.