Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Programs: Masters & PhDs in California

Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Degree Choices

It’s important to note that while many graduate degrees offer the above courses, the depth of study may vary with your chosen level of education. For example, a graduate certificate and a PhD program may both offer educational leaderships classes. However, the doctoral degree might cover more advanced topics. Keep reading for more information about the different potential programs and as well as their unique academic offerings. Then consider your academic and career goals to find a perfect curriculum and instruction program for you.

Curriculum and Instruction Masters Programs

Earning a masters in curriculum and instruction might be a great first step into the world of graduate education. These masters programs may be offered as many different degrees. Depending on your own personal goals, one may apply to you more than another. Some potential curriculum and instruction masters programs could be the following.

• Master of Science (MS) in Instructional Design educates students on how to use research and analysis techniques to inform their instructional strategy. This might be a great choice for students who wish to create future systems to support students’ learning habits.
• Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction aims to improve school systems through well-rounded education plans. Students could have the opportunity to learn about diverse student populations, how to provide training to teachers, and instructional supervision aids.
• A Master of Arts (MA) in Curriculum and Instruction program is similar to an MEd in Curriculum Instruction in terms of coursework. Where it differs, though, is its emphasis on in-classroom training. Students may be able to test their new skills and knowledge (as well as their educational plans!) inside actual learning spaces.

Masters in Curriculum and Instruction Requirements

Unlike undergraduate programs, these masters programs might focus exclusively on curriculum and instruction courses. This means that electives may not be required to graduate. With this concise course load in mind, students could potentially complete a master’s degree program in 2 years. Program lengths vary by school.

School’s typically require students to submit a 2.7 to 3.0 undergraduate GPA, in addition to GRE scores, for application. Depending on the program, you may also be required to submit materials like personal essays, CV or resume, and letters of recommendation. Check with potential universities for a more complete list of admissions criteria.

Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral Programs

Curriculum and instruction doctoral programs may offer either a doctorate of philosophy (PhD) or education (EdD). While their names might be different, both programs have similar coursework and provide a more intensive course of study. Doctoral programs typically rely on research and data analysis to test new teaching strategies. Plus as part of writing and researching a dissertation, you might be able to test your plans on real students and learn directly from the results.

Doctoral curriculum and instruction program generally run longer than masters programs. This might be due to class and dissertation requirements that are absent at the masters level. Typically, students could earn a doctoral degree in 4 to 7 years, depending on enrollment status. Program lengths vary by schools.

Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral Program Admission Requirements

As you may guess, doctoral programs may present challenging coursework for students. Admissions requirements aim to test students’ abilities to not only meet these academic standards, but possibly exceed them. With this in mind, students may be asked to submit a 3.0 undergraduate or a 3.5 or graduate GPA. Additionally, GRE scores are often required.  Check with potential schools for a full list of their admissions criteria.

Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate Degree Programs

Curriculum and instruction graduate certificates programs work to elevate current teachers’ methods. Typically, certificate coursework focuses solely on one unique teaching aspect. For example, you could engage in topics such as autistic spectrum disorders, literacy development, curriculum evaluation, and comprehensive youth education. These programs focus on implementing changes within your classroom and creating a more inclusive learning environment.

Because graduate certificates generally only address one specific facet of curriculum and instruction, they are often shorter than other graduate programs. Students could earn a curriculum and instruction graduate certificate in 1 year. This shorter timeline might be a great option for teachers who want to immediately apply lessons to their own classroom. Of course, programs vary, so please check with your intended school.

Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements

Since the programs are designed for current educators, schools attempt to make them as accessible as possible. Besides the above-mentioned timeline, this also transfers to admissions criteria. Prospective students may be required to submit 3.0 undergraduate GPA on average. Note that GRE scores might not be required for this program, which could save you valuable time and money!

Curriculum and Instruction Program Formats

Choosing how you want to attend your curriculum and instruction graduate program is almost as important as selecting your degree! Taking your own weekly routine into consideration, you may find one of the following formats fits seamlessly into your schedule:

• On campus curriculum and instruction graduate programs may be a great choice for students looking for a structured schedule and networking. By stepping into the physical classroom, you could engage with a community of education professionals. This might be a great resource when it comes to looking for a future position. Or if you just have questions about a current academic obstacle. While most classes take place during the day, be sure to also look for “working professionals” programs. These programs are designed for current educators and often include night courses.
• Online curriculum and instruction graduate programs offer convenient and flexible course schedules that may perfectly suit working teachers. With online courses, you could log into classes as your own schedule allows. For example, you could attend class after the school day is over. Or, if you’re up late grading papers, you might want to study during the weekend when you have more time available.  This way, you don’t have to compromise your work for your education and vice versa!
• Hybrid curriculum and instruction graduate programs combine the convenience of online courses with the support system of the on-campus. This is a great program for educators because it takes your schedule into consideration. Teachers could take online courses during the school year and then switch to on-campus during the summer months. This way you might be able to earn your degree while also pursuing your professional goals.

Top 34 Graduate Schools with Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Programs in California