Master of Arts (MA) in Curriculum and Instruction
Earn Your Master's in Curriculum and Instruction at GCU
The Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction non-licensure degree program from Grand Canyon University helps educational professionals take their careers to the next level. Through the degree coursework, research and field experience, graduates of the online master’s in curriculum and instruction program can become instructional leaders at the school, district and state levels. The practical approach to curriculum development, teaching and assessment ensures that MA in Curriculum and Instruction graduates learn the most contemporary and effective practices for the classroom.
There are many facets to curriculum development that are focused on in the master’s in curriculum and instruction program at GCU. Graduates get experience with research-based differentiation strategies. They also learn the most up-to-date assessment and content-area practices. The coursework prepares graduates for curriculum-related leadership positions in just about any educational environment.
Learn How to Develop Curriculum for Schools
Students enrolled in this GCU masters degree in curriculum and instruction program learn to plan, write and deliver instruction that is developmentally appropriate, engaging and culturally responsive. Graduates also evaluate the efficacy of instructional strategies using data and student achievement information.
Graduates of the online master’s in curriculum and instruction program complete coursework on a variety of important subject areas, including:
- Curriculum planning
- Assessment development
- Engagement strategies for diverse learners
- Culturally responsive pedagogy
- Using assessment data to inform instruction
- Delivering effective instruction, including the use and development of specialized materials
- Coaching other teachers and community members
- Professional development presentation strategies
What Can You Do with a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction?
The master's degree in curriculum and instruction, while not leading to licensure, may lead to career advancement for education professionals. Graduates with a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction degree may find work as:
- Curriculum specialists
- Curriculum designers
- Lead teachers
- Grade level/Department level chairs
- School administrators
The work done by masters in curriculum and instruction graduates may take place in public or private elementary, middle or high schools. Other potential workplaces include:
- College and universities
- Education welfare organizations
- Curriculum development businesses
- Education/EdTech publishers
Teachers looking to advance their skills and learn more about the foundations of what they teach will benefit from an MA in Curriculum and Instruction. Find out more about the GCU program today.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the College of Education. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success.
Course Description
This course focuses on brain research (from neuroscience to the behavioral and cognitive sciences) that relates to teaching and learning and suggests ways that brain research can be translated into instructional practices within organizational settings. Candidates will examine the inner workings of the brain and the effect on learning, memory, and transfer. Specifically, the course explores the body of knowledge that represents the application of brain research to instructional practice, and how knowledge about the human brain can affect the curricular, instructional, and assessment decisions that the candidates make every day. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to applied research in education across the major quantitative, qualitative, and action research traditions. Coursework focuses on understanding the research process and its integrated components and evaluating published research reports from the perspective of a critical consumer. Scientific reasoning and research design are also explored.
Course Description
Candidates will be introduced to current theories of learning and approaches to curriculum design. The emphasis will be on examining and identifying the concepts, principles, and models of curriculum design. Candidates will evaluate curriculum based on learning theories and approaches to curriculum.
Course Description
Candidates will examine frameworks, materials, and strategies for translating the principles of culturally responsive pedagogy into effective educational practice. The emphasis will be on developing curriculum considering culturally responsive pedagogy, family and community engagement, and global education. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Seek out instructional specialists at the school or district level that have insight into what professional development is available and how the topics are chosen. K-12. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Candidates will develop skills in aligning objectives, instruction, and assessments. Special attention is given to differentiating curriculum for diverse students and using assessment data to guide instruction. Candidates will collaborate with peers and colleagues to achieve instructional goals through action planning. Review of current trends in instruction and assessment are presented to guide instructional decisions with a special focus on the needs of diverse students. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Candidates will use data to differentiate curriculum, instruction, and assessments to foster learning for all students. Focus will be on principles of learning, using technology to differentiate instruction, and developing an engaging classroom environment. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Candidates develop year-long units of study based on identified goals and professional standards. Curriculum mapping analysis skills will be developed to align program objectives systematically to achieve learning goals. Emphasis is placed on backwards design and inquiry-based learning. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Candidates will apply coaching techniques in academic and professional settings. Emphasis is placed on improving professional practices, workplace culture, and effective communication. Candidates will focus on professional coaching and leadership skills. Practicum/field experience hours: 10. Fingerprint clearance required.
Course Description
Candidates survey effective professional development strategies and practices. Special focus is placed upon researching theories and models, including andragogy, that enhance knowledge and skill development for adult learners. Candidates develop professional learning activities aligned with the identified needs that ensure participant growth and advancement in their profession. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.
Course Description
Candidates deliver, evaluate, and revise a professional development presentation, and incorporate peer interaction with feedback to assure timeliness and relevance. Candidates create a year-long professional development plan based on instructional needs identified by an organization. Practicum/field experience hours: 30. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: EDU-585 OR EDU-586.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.
Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.