Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

UC’s 100% Online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction is a multidisciplinary, nationally-ranked program that equips students with the skills and competencies they need to LEAD and MANAGE change in the evolving field of education. The program is designed for practicing teachers and other professionals interested in the planning, development, and implementation of instructional programs (in school and non-school settings).

What Is Curriculum & Instruction?

The mission of the Curriculum and Instruction program is to develop educational leaders. Curriculum and instruction go hand in hand. The curriculum is the content deemed important for student learning and instruction is the process by which that learning will be achieved. In addition to practicing teachers, this program is perfect for anyone interested in the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of educational and instructional programs in a variety of school and non-school settings.

Concentration Areas

There are 3 areas of concentration within the Master’s program. All of our degree and certificate programs are flexible and self-paced – designed for busy, working educators just like you. All concentrations are online and taught by faculty whose research is in these concentration areas.

STEM Education: The specialization will allow you to further develop your understanding of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. Each course helps you tie together science, math, technology, and engineering concepts, and helps you to better understand how to integrate these content areas.

This concentration enhances problem-based and project-based learning activities, mathematics and science investigation-based learning tasks, and how to use technology effectively in the classroom. You will design a technology-based learning environment and conduct an evaluation of the embedded theories in an existing environment of your choice, such as digital media, games, or other innovative technologies.

Gifted Education: The Gifted Education master's specialization is designed for licensed teachers who are interested in teaching gifted students PreK-12. You will have the opportunity to apply constructs learned in class to a field experience, including the development, implementation, and publication of lesson plans. You will apply theories and methods in the teaching of gifted, talented, or creative students in a classroom setting by engaging in teaching and action research activities.

During the gifted assessment course, you will develop the ability to analyze and understand a variety of assessment tools selecting the appropriate strategy for a designated purpose. Also within the assessment course, you will discuss contextual elements such as cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity and disposition that influence assessment.

Teaching and Learning: General Studies: The Teaching and Learning: General Studies Concentration is designed for PreK-12, informal, and higher education educators who are interested in an in-depth focus on curriculum and instruction. Candidates develop their knowledge in teaching, learning, and educational research within an area agreed upon with her advisor along with required courses such as theories and trends, diversity, research methods, and a capstone project.

Program Offerings

• 100% online instruction
• Financial aid available
• Easy to transfer credits
• Enroll in the spring, summer, or fall semesters
• Instruction from award-winning faculty
• Part-time flexibility
• This degree does not lead to a teaching license.
• Quick Program Stats
• Graduation rate: 90%

What will I learn in the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program?

For the M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction students will complete the core curriculum (15 credit hours) as well as an area of specialization or concentration area (15 credit hours). The concentration area is determined by the candidates’ interests and professional goals.

Courses include:

• Curriculum and Instruction: Theories and Trends
• Teaching and Learning in Diverse Classrooms
• Applications and Issues of Teaching with Technology
• The Role of Teachers in a Democratic Society
• Improving Instructional Effectiveness
• Gifted Education & STEM Education courses

Accreditations

The University of Cincinnati and all of its regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The University of Cincinnati is fully accredited by the Council of the Accreditation of the Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Is Curriculum and Instruction Right for Me?

A Master's in Curriculum and Instruction is great for those educators with experience as licensed teaching professionals, education administration professionals, STEM coordinators, and school or district gifted leaders.

For the master's in Curriculum and Instruction students will complete a core curriculum (15 credit hours) as well as an area of specialization or concentration area (15 credit hours). The concentration area is determined by the candidates’ interests and professional goals. See below for course listings. A customized individual schedule will be available following admission.

Curriculum at a Glance

• Curriculum and Instruction: Theories and Trends
• Teaching and Learning in Diverse Classrooms
• Applications and Issues of Teaching with Technology
• The Role of Teachers in a Democratic Society
• Educational Research for Masters Students
• Improving Instructional Effectiveness: Clinical Experience
• Gifted: Overview of Teaching Children and Youth who are Gifted, Creative, or Talented
• Gifted: Creating Learning Environments for Children and Youth who are Gifted, Creative, or Talented
• Gifted: Assessment of Children and Youth who are Gifted, Creative, or Talented
• Gifted: Collaboration on Behalf of Children and Youth who are Gifted, Creative, or Talented
• Gifted: Practicum
• Integrating STEM into Practice
• Improving Instructional Effectiveness: Clinical Experience
• Science Learning in Laboratory and Inquiry Settings
• Master's Project: Curriculum and Instruction
• Attitude Formation and Change in the Classroom
• Mathematics as Problem Solving
• Math as an Interdisciplinary Topic

• The University of Cincinnati ranked #34 out of the best 321 Online Master of Education on U.S. News & World Report (2022)
• Our program is recognized as the 7th Best Online Master of Education Program in Curriculum and Instruction by TheBestSchools.org (2020)

With a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction degree, alumni can expect to increase their earning potential. Graduates would also be eligible for a variety of leadership roles and career-advancing opportunities.

Great for those with experience in:

• Licensed Teaching Professionals
• Education Administration Professionals
• STEM Coordinators
• School or district Gifted Leaders

Career Opportunities:

• Curriculum and Instruction Specialist
• Curriculum Design Manager
• Education Specialist
• Principal Leadership
• Public, Private, Parochial, Magnet, and Charter School Educators
• Museums or Religious organizations offering education programs
• Textbook and Curriculum Companies
• Government Organizations specializing in education