Online Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction

Curriculum professional writing on whiteboard
Start your GCU
journey today.
Step 1: Educational Interests
This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.
Find Your Purpose
Start your GCU journey today.
Request Info
Overview

Impact Student Learning Outcomes

The online Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction non-licensure degree program at Grand Canyon University teaches education professionals advanced skills in curriculum development and instructional strategies, helping to enhance their expertise and prepare for career progression opportunities. Through the degree coursework, research and field experience, graduates of this master’s program may pursue opportunities as instructional leaders at the school, district and state levels. The practical approach to curriculum development, teaching and assessment helps equip you with the most contemporary and effective classroom practices.  

Two curriculum professionals walking through a door
Why GCU

Earn Your Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction 

This degree explores various aspects of curriculum development and instruction, emphasizing evidence-based best practices to help diverse students thrive in the classroom. You will have opportunities to gain experience with research-based differentiation strategies and delve into assessment and content-area practices. The coursework can provide valuable skills for potentially advancing in curriculum development opportunities within various educational settings.

Flexible Online Master’s Degree

This online degree is designed for working professionals to take classes at times that work for you. Our robust learning management system offers a seamless and interactive experience, allowing you to connect with diverse peers and gain broad perspectives. Earn your online master’s in curriculum and instruction with the same quality education and engaged instruction as on-campus students, all while enjoying the flexibility to study from almost anywhere. 

Coursework

Advanced Curriculum Strategies for Educators

In this program, you will focus on planning, writing and delivering instruction that is developmentally appropriate, engaging and culturally responsive. The coursework includes evaluating the efficacy of instructional strategies using data and student achievement information. You will also analyze the curriculum through the concepts, principles and models of curriculum design.

This MA in curriculum and instruction program culminates in a capstone project. You will be expected to complete practicum/field experience hours and create professional development plans throughout your program of study to address specific instructional needs. This plan includes delivering, evaluating and revising a professional development presentation to enhance teaching practices and educational outcomes. 

You will be expected to complete coursework on a variety of relevant subject areas, including:

Curriculum planning

Development of assessments

Strategies to engage diverse learners

Culturally responsive pedagogy 

Utilization of assessment data for instructional decisions

Effective instructional delivery and specialized material development

Professional development for educators and specialists

Fundamentals of neuroscience and cognitive sciences relevant to memory and learning

Careers

Career Paths in Teaching and Curriculum Design

Pursuing this master's degree may be beneficial to teachers seeking to deepen their expertise and strengthen the foundational aspects of their teaching. With a firm foundation in curriculum and instructional competencies, you may be equipped to pursue work across a variety of education-focused settings. These may include teaching in public or private elementary, middle or high schools, as well as pursuing careers as instructional coordinators.  

Other potential workplaces can include:1

Colleges and universities

Professional schools

Education support organizations

State and local governments

100+

Number of GCU education alumni recognized in the field of education as of February 2024

Accreditation

Earn Your MA at an Institutionally Accredited University 

We are proud to be an institutionally accredited university. In addition, the Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Education shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies. 

FAQ

MA in Curriculum and Instruction FAQs

If you’re drawn to empowering others through a career in curriculum instruction , you may find the following FAQs and answers helpful as you consider pursuing an education career.

Curriculum student on laptop throwing up lopes

Empower the Future of Education

Master advanced curriculum design skills through flexible online learning.

Apply Now

If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). Instructional Coordinators: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 1, 2024. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). What Instructional Coordinators Do. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 3, 2024. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). How To Become a High School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 1, 2024. 

We're here to help.

I'm Ready to ApplyI Need More Information