The 10 Best Online Masters in Curriculum and Instruction

The days of a one-size-fits-all education are over. Curricula have to be:

• differentiated
• individualized
• technologically up to date

A curriculum must be adaptable to the learning styles of diverse learners. In today’s classroom, a teacher will have to understand how to work with a variety of students including those who:

• are on the autism spectrum
• speak a first language other than English
• have a variety of maladaptive behaviors or emotional disorders

Leaders in public schools are the people who understand how to differentiate curricula to meet the needs of all of these students. If you’re ready to take your pedagogical practice to this level and have a passion to serve the needs of all learners, then a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction is essential. The following rank is our top ten graduate programs in curriculum and instruction.

Methodology:

• Affordability (1/3): the estimated out-of-state tuition per credit hour.
• Flexibility-granting Components (1/3): the range of flexibility-granting components, including accelerated or part-time programming, number of specializations, and prior experience credit.
• Academic Prestige (1/3): the academic prestige of the parent institution and the parent institution’s education department.

1. Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,282/year in-state and $11,520/year out-of-state

Website

Arkansas State University is a public research university and the flagship university of the Arkansas State University system.  The class size consists of about 27 students with a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1. Arkansas State University enrolls almost 13,000 students and has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Arkansas State also provides convenient affordable online education emitted in the form of:

• video conferencing
• phone calls
• social media
• Live Text
• peer-to-peer interaction
• self-study

Classes do not require attendance during specific times of the day so you can learn at your own pace on your schedule.

Arkansas State University made its way to the top of our list for its great flexibility and affordability. This program requires 33 credit hours including 15 hours of foundations coursework and 15 hours from a concentration area.   The Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction is a post-masters degree.  It’s available for students who already have a master’s degree and want to gain knowledge and leadership skills.  Students can earn an additional endorsement in either Curriculum Leadership or Special Education Leadership.

Students can personalize their degree by choosing a concentration.  Available concentrations include:

• Program Administrator
• K-12 Online Teaching
• Literacy/Dyslexia
• Education Examiner

You won’t have to wait until you graduate to start applying the relevant and affordable programming to enhance your skills as a teacher.

2. University of Massachusetts Lowell – Lowell, Massachusetts

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, MEd

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,956/year in-state and $27,030/year out-of-state

Website

Founded in 1894, the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is a public research university located in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts. UMass Lowell enrolls over 17,500 students and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.  The online program alone offers over 50 fully online degree and certificate programs.  Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio is low at 18:1.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is a fantastic choice for educators ready to take the next step as leaders in their field. The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction is comprised of 10 courses.  Core courses include:

• Foundations of Social Justice Education
• Assessment of Learning
• Educating Diverse Populations

The curriculum and instruction program culminates with an action research course.  This course allows students to showcase the knowledge they’ve gained in the program with a research project plan for a classroom or small group setting.  Online master’s graduates are prepared for a variety of occupations including:

• Curriculum Developer
• Instructional Coach
• Learning Specialist

There is no Graduate Record Examination requirement for admission.

3. West Texas A&M University – Canyon, Texas

Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,088/year in-state and $6,378/year out-of-state

Website

West Texas A&M University was founded in 1910 and is a public university located in Canyon, Texas.  WTAMU is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. WTAMU offers 60 undergraduate degree programs and 40 graduate degrees to over 9,500 students. The University is located in the panhandle of Texas and is considered to be one of the most affordable universities in that five-state region.

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction is offered with an emphasis in either reading or special education.  The reading specialization is a two-year program that can lead to certification as a Texas Reading Specialist.  The curriculum has been newly redesigned so students can feel confident they are getting the latest cutting-edge information to be successful in all-level reading programs.

Students interested in the special education concentration will benefit from a program that emphasizes the professional standards for Master teachers recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children.  Courses emphasize:

• assessment
• research-based practices
• interventions

Applicants to the curriculum and instruction program should have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA and hold a valid teaching certificate.  They will also need to submit professional references and a resume or CV for consideration.

4. American College of Education – Indianapolis, Indiana

Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,640/year

Website

American College of Education was founded to improve education through the provision of online graduate programs, and professional development programs. The college is a for-profit institution based in Indianapolis.  It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers all of its courses online. Their mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and evidence-based education for students in today’s world.  This is the kind of program that has the learner in mind without sacrificing quality education which is why the American College of Education is at the top of our list.

This Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction offers nine unique focus of study options.  Some of these include:

• Differentiated Instruction
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Effective Classroom Management
• Secondary English Language Arts and Literacy

This 34-credit hour program is infused with instructional technology and real-life challenges in today’s classrooms.  Students learn how to apply evidence-based instruction and industry standards to transform their practice.

5. University of Kansas – Lawrence, Kansas

Online Curriculum and Instruction Master’s Degree

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,989/year in-state and $23,951/year out-of-state

Website

Founded in 1865, the University of Kansas is the largest public research university in the state of Kansas. The University of Kansas has a high acceptance rate and strives to meet the financial needs of its enrolled students. Top education and financial feasibility are not the only reason the University of Kansas is a great pick. Throughout each of its colleges, the University of Kansas seems to be nurturing its student’s dreams and rewarding them with an education that makes an impact in all areas of study.  If you want to achieve your goals at a high-class school for an affordable price, this is a fantastic option.

The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences features an online masters in curriculum and instruction.  The program is comprised of 10 courses and students can earn their degree in just two years.  Faculty are world-renowned and share their diverse, real-world experience with their students.  The innovative online format allows students to complete their coursework on their own schedule.

For those who have found the world of standardized tests to be a barrier, that won’t be a problem here as KU does not require a GRE for admission into their program. What you will get is quality instruction in areas like:

• multicultural education
• curriculum planning
• differentiation
• planning for school improvement
• 21st-century pedagogical considerations

You finish your degree with a master’s project and leave with a top-notch education that is highly relevant and effective in today’s classrooms.

There is no GRE required for admission and there is no practicum or residency requirements.  Students complete a working instructional portfolio that they can immediately apply in their classroom.

6. The University of Texas at Arlington – Arlington, Texas

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Online

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,015/year in-state and $22,167/year out-of-state

Website

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is a public research university located in Arlington, Texas.  UTA is classified as an “R-1: Doctoral University- Highest Research Activity” by the Carnegie Foundation. UTA has the most distance learners in the state of Texas.  Additionally, there are 700 different courses offered online that are taught by UT Arlington’s faculty.

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program at The University of Texas Arlington includes four areas of focus:

• Literary Studies
• Math Education
• Science Education
• Open

Each program takes 18 months and 30 credit hours to complete. Each area of focus equips you with course material to keep your skills relevant and up to date for today’s learners.

Students who choose the literacy focus can tailor their degree even further with a professional certificate including:

• Reading Specialist
• English as a Second Language

For students with a math or science focus, coursework emphasizes problem-based, inquiry-based teaching strategies.  The open option provides students with the flexibility to create a customized program.  Students work with their program director to create a plan that meets their professional goals and objectives.

Courses are delivered 100%, ideal for busy professionals.  There is no GRE requirement for admission.

7. Kansas State University – Manhattan, Kansas

Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction Online

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,294/year in-state and $23,018/year out-of-state

Website

Kansas State University is a public, four-year university located in Manhattan, Kansas.  KSU was founded in 1863 and was the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas.  More than 20,000 students are enrolled from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association accredits Kansas State.  The Kansas State Global Campus has offered nontraditional education for 50 years. Their online learning programming is fully accredited by the HLC. Kansas State provides 27 master’s degree programs with nearly half of those in the field of education or human ecology.

The Global Campus at Kansas State University offers a curriculum and instruction program that applies to any educator who wants to develop better pedagogy and curricula. Students can choose from six areas of specialization including:

• Educational Technology
• English as a Second Language
• Learning Skills/School Improvement
• Mathematics Education
• Reading Specialist
• Teaching Civics and Government

These specializations allow students to customize their degree based on their role in the modern school system.  This is the perfect program for teachers at all levels who want to expand their knowledge base.  We chose Kansas State as one of our top picks because the course material is relevant, flexible, and of high quality.

8. Arizona State University – Tempe, Arizona

Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Degree – Gifted Education

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,014/year in-state and $24,498/year out-of-state

Website

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public research university located in Tempe, Arizona.  The Carnegie Association ranks ASU as a research university with very high activity. ASU Online offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.  Students enrolled in these programs learn from the same faculty as the students on campus. All programs on-campus and online have been accredited through the Higher Learning Commission.

Arizona State University provides educators with an opportunity to enhance the learning experience of exceptional learners. ASU offers an innovative Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction focused on gifted education.  The program is designed to benefit a wide audience of learners including:

• behavior analysts
• school psychologists
• teachers
• therapists

The curriculum emphasizes the latest research and educational theories.  A variety of hands-on learning opportunities are available, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned in a classroom setting.  Required course offerings include:

• Learning and Instruction
• Differentiating Instruction for Gifted Learners: Teaching Methods
• Advising the Gifted Learner: Social and Emotional Needs

We chose Arizona State for its high-quality educational standards, unique and diverse offerings, and overall value.

9. The University of Texas at El Paso – El Paso, Texas

Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction Online

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,865/year in-state and $15,320/year out-of-state

Website

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is a public research university located in El Paso, Texas.  Located right on the US-Mexico border, UTEP regularly enables generations of Mexican Americans to achieve their advanced education and career goals.  Generous financial aid opportunities are available including the UTEP Promise Plan, which covers 100% of tuition for low-income Texans. Students also have the option to pay in installments each semester.

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at The University of Texas at El Paso is a comprehensive program with four concentration areas to choose from.  These include:

• Bilingual Education
• Early Childhood Education
• Educational Technology
• Engineering

Students must complete 36 semester hours to complete their degree.  Fortunately, each student is paired with a Graduate Faculty Advisor to help them develop their degree plan and stay on schedule.

Like many of the top curriculum and instruction programs, admission is competitive.  Prospective students should have a bachelor’s degree and at least a 3.0 GPA. Applicants are also expected to submit a current resume. All students must pass a written comprehensive examination during their final semester to earn their degree.

10. Chadron State College – Chadron, Nebraska

Online Master of Education – Curriculum and Instruction Degree

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,989/year in-state and $23,951/year out-of-state

Website

Chadron State College is a public school located in Chadron, Nebraska.  Chadron enrolls over 2,200 students from across the U.S. Student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1 where 83% of faculty hold the highest degree in their field. The college is situated in the northern part of the Nebraska Panhandle and five of its colleges are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Chadron is more than a beautiful place to go to school, it offers over 100-degree programs for undergraduate and graduate students.  Tuition is very affordable as Chadron offers a flat rate for in-state and out-of-state tuition.

The Curriculum and Instruction online master’s degree at Chadron State College has five areas of concentration. Concentration areas include:

• Elementary Education- General Education
• Elementary Field Option (Concentration in a Subject Area)
• Secondary
• Special Education-Early Childhood Special Education
• PK-12 Reading Specialist
• K-12 Special Education

In addition to the six areas of focus, we love this online master’s degree for its affordability. Each course guarantees you will have the core materials needed to effect change at a leadership level in school. Expect to take courses in areas like:

• Curriculum Development
• School Law
• Educational Philosophy

Online students will learn how to design their own educational research and analyze data.  They will also learn the characteristics of behavioral and emotional disabilities. This master’s degree program equips you to handle the issues that arise in today’s classroom environments.

11. Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,684/year in-state and $24,116/year out-of-state

Website

Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in the state of Florida.  FSU’s students come from every Florida county and over 130 different countries.  There are over 45,000 students and 2,500 traditional faculty.

FSU’s online master’s in curriculum and instruction is designed for current educators who want to improve effectiveness and increase their leadership skills.  Students should have regular interactions with Pre-K through 12th-grade learners to participate in this program.

The 30-credit hour program includes 10 courses and one portfolio.  Part-time students can earn their degree in about two years.  All students begin the program during the fall semester.  Most courses are offered in an asynchronous format which is great for teachers with varied work schedules.  Core courses include:

• Analyzing and Refining Teaching
• Making Sense of Data to Inform Instruction
• Teachers as Informed Curriculum Decision makers

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA.  Potential students should expect to submit GRE test scores and transcripts from each college/university attended.

12. University of North Carolina – Charlotte, North Carolina

MEd in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,337/year in-state and $18,482/year out-of-state

Website

UNC Charlotte is one of 17 institutions in the University of North Carolina System.  There are over 24,000 undergraduate students and 6,000 graduate students from 47 states and over 100 countries.  The student-to-faculty ratio is 19:1 and the average class size is 35 students.

The School of Professional Studies at UNC Charlotte offers an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.  This 30-credit hour program was created for experienced teachers who want to expand their knowledge as a curriculum specialist and instructional leader.  Courses cover areas like:

• research methodology
• curriculum theory
• analysis of teaching
• curriculum development

Courses are delivered 100% online, accommodating the flexibility needs of working professionals.  All students complete a capstone project addressing the unique needs of their students in their own school system.  Most students can complete their degree in five semesters.

13. Western Governors University – Salt Lake City, Utah

Master of Science Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,765/year

Website

Western Governors University is a non-profit, independent university founded by 19 United States governors.  WGU is an online university focused on their students.  Students come from all 50 states and on US military bases from around the globe.  There are currently over 144,000 students taking courses at WGU.

The curriculum and instruction master’s degree program at Western Governor’s is built in alignment with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and the National Education Association’s Teacher Leadership Competencies.  The 10-course curriculum is designed to be timely and relevant.  Course offerings include:

• Educational Research
• Standards-Based Assessment
• Differentiated Instruction

All students complete a capstone project.  Students apply what they have learned during the program to a real-world situation.  They recommend solutions to challenges they’ll likely face in their own classroom or school district.

Most students can complete their degree in less than two years. In fact, 61% of students finish the program in just 13 months.

14.  Purdue University – West Lafayette, Indiana

Online Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,718/year in-state and $28,520/year out-of-state

Website

Purdue University is a public, four-year university with over 50,000 students.  The student to faculty ratio is just 14:1. Purdue University Online provides students all over the country with a flexible, affordable online education.

Purdue University offers an online Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction.  Students can advance their role in the curriculum life cycle while developing lifelong learners.  The program is a great choice for professionals currently working as teachers or curriculum coordinators/administrators.

Students can personalize their degree plan by choosing an area of concentration.  Concentration areas include:

• English Language Learning
• Gifted, Creative and Talented Studies
• Integrated STEM Education
• Mathematics Education
• Educational Technology

Applicants do not need a teaching degree to be considered for admission.  Prospective students will need to submit a resume and personal statement to be considered for acceptance.  All applicants will complete a phone interview with an admissions advisor before being admitted.

15. Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Online

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,444/year in-state and $17,436/year out-of-state

Website

Ohio University is the oldest public university in Ohio.  There are over 28,000 students online and on-campus.  Over the last four years, Ohio University has not raised the cost of tuition, prioritizing the needs of their students.  OU offers over 250 academic programs across 11 campuses and centers.

The Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Online from Ohio University is a specialized program for teachers with a license or certificate of instruction.  The program supports these teachers to advance their knowledge in areas like curriculum design and evaluation.  Courses and clinical experiences focus on areas like:

• student learning
• curriculum development
• community involvement
• mentoring

Students can complete their degree in four semesters although some students may be able to finish in just three.  New students can begin their studies during the fall, spring, or summer terms.

Related Resources:

The Most Affordable Master’s Degrees in Curriculum and Instruction Online

The Top 1 Year Master’s in Education Online Programs

The Top 10 Science Education Master’s Degree Programs Online