Online Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
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Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
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 and instruction collectively refer to the design and development of academic programs and the development and implementation of instructional best practices in the classroom (i.e., how curriculum is delivered to students). Evidence-based curriculum design and instructional delivery is intended to support strong student outcomes, helping them strive toward their academic goals, and ultimately, vocational outcomes.
The value of a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction depends on your career goals, professional aspirations and personal circumstances. This program provides certified or licensed teachers and education specialists with advanced skills and knowledge that can help them position themselves for possible career advancement and growth within education. Completing the program can help prepare you for new educational challenges and qualify you for roles outside the classroom, enriching your professional path within and beyond educational settings. You’ll also gain insights into innovative teaching approaches that can inspire your students. Our flexible online education programs accommodate your schedule, offering convenience and accessibility.
A curriculum and instruction specialist typically works closely with teams of educators to implement evidence-based curriculum and instructional strategies in the classroom, with the goal of elevating student achievements.2 These professionals may be responsible for the following:2
A non-licensure (NITL) education degree program typically means you will follow a shorter path than the licensure route because it does not require a student teaching component. An education degree that leads to licensure (ITL) will require you to complete a practicum/field experience (or student teaching component) that can help prepare you to apply for a teaching certificate or license after passing the state exam(s).3
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.
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
Number of GCU education alumni recognized in the field of education as of February 2024
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.
Master advanced curriculum design skills through flexible online learning.
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.
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).
1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). Instructional Coordinators: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 1, 2024.
2 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). What Instructional Coordinators Do. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 3, 2024.
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). How To Become a High School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 1, 2024.
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
