are interested in a potential career in research, advanced teaching, leadership or curriculum development positions might find that a Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction program provides them with the competencies and knowledge. Students in these programs are generally exposed to advanced theory and practice in research methodology and application, curriculum mapping, instruction and assessment, and collaborative curriculum development.
Potential Advantages to Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Degree Graduate Programs
If you are looking into web-based learning, it helps to be good at learning and studying independently. Doctorate degrees in Curriculum and Instruction tend to be research intensive, which lends itself to an online format. It is always advisable to verify the exact format with the school, in case there is a mentoring component. Typically, online courses allow students to log into a course management system when it is convenient to their schedule, and digital tools keep you connected to faculty as well as offer online study and library tools. This is why distance learning may be the best option for working professionals; studying from any location where you have Internet and a computer makes this format accessible for busy adults.
Choosing A Doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction Degree
GradSchools.com has easy to use search tools to help you find accredited schools offering online PhD in curriculum and instruction programs. A location search will generate a list by city, state or country. Some of these listings might include Online Ed.D. in Curriculum Studies, Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education – Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment and Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy and Foundations. If you click through to the school itself, there is information about each program, in terms of admission requirements, pre-requisites, and coursework.
Some doctorate degrees in curriculum and instruction are designed for professional educators and may take 3-4 years to complete and usually involve advanced research and preparation for a dissertation. When choosing a school, students may want to consider the school's admissions requirements. For instance, some schools look for students with at least three years of professional experience in an education environment, while others accept those with a strong educational background.
One of the things to consider when selecting a doctoral-program is that, because of the intensity of study, it helps to choose a program you are passionate about. Some graduates are drawn to a particular grade level, such as elementary or high school, or a specific subject, such as English as a second language or gifted and talented programs. The two main types of doctorate degrees in Curriculum and Instruction are the Ph.D. and the Ed.D
Doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction Degree Options
Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Ph.D. programs in curriculum and instruction may be completed in four years. Generally, they include courses in education foundations, research and curriculum development. Students may be able to choose a specialization such as literacy, instructional technology or moral education. A practicum and dissertation are also commonly required. Coursework might include:
- Teaching models
- Curriculum design and development
- Educational statistics
- Educational research
- Teacher preparation
Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction programs prepare graduates for potential jobs as advanced practitioners in the field of education. These courses may be similar to those in a Ph.D. program, although they tend to focus on teaching practices, rather than research. These doctoral programs are also made up of core courses, research projects and a dissertation. Coursework might include:
- Curriculum policy
- Program evaluation
- Contemporary curriculum
- School improvement and reform
- Critical pedagogy
- Professional development for teachers
What Qualities Do I need To Work in Curriculum and Instruction?
For a career path such as that of Instructional Coordinators, some of the important qualities of professionals in this occupation include:
Analytical skills to be able to test data and evaluate teaching strategies, analyze the information to recommend improvements in curriculum and teaching.
Communication skills are helpful to be able to explain changes in the curriculum and teaching standards to teachers, principals, and school staff with clarity of speech or written word.
Decision-making skills to be able to make sound decisions when recommending changes to curricula, teaching methods, and textbooks based on rational thought processes.
Interpersonal skills are vital to be able to collaborate with teachers, principals, and other administrators and establish and maintain positive working relationships with others.
Leadership skills are important as these professionals serve as mentors to teachers. They train teachers in developing useful and effective teaching techniques.
Ready To Search For An Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Program?
Are you a certified teacher of graduate student who is seeking a research career or leadership position within an education system where you might evaluate curriculum, lead change or implement policy? If so, an Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction program may lead to a variety of potentially rewarding career paths. Start comparing online doctoral degrees in curriculum and instruction on GradSchools.com to find the one that corresponds to your goals and aspirations!
Sources: bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators | bls.gov/careeroutlook/2007/spring/art03.pdf
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