Program Overview
The master’s in curriculum and instruction at the University of Kansas prepares educators to become leaders in curriculum development, instructional design, and educational improvement. This fully online graduate program is designed for working professionals who want to advance their expertise while maintaining their current teaching or leadership roles. Grounded in research and reflective practice, the program equips students with the tools to assess learning needs, create inclusive learning environments, and apply evidence-based strategies that foster meaningful student outcomes.
As a flexible and academically rigorous curriculum and instruction master’s, this program emphasizes the integration of theory and practice. Students examine how curriculum is shaped by culture, policy, and community context, and they explore how instructional decisions influence student achievement and equity. Coursework supports the development of strong analytical, research, and communication skills, preparing graduates to make data-informed decisions that improve schools and systems.
Designed for classroom teachers, instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and educational consultants, the program explores the intersection of teaching, learning, equity, and innovation. Because the master’s in curriculum and instruction is delivered entirely online, students engage in collaborative discussions, applied projects, and practitioner inquiry within a dynamic virtual learning environment. Many students conduct research within their own classrooms or districts, directly connecting graduate study to professional practice.
Students in the MSE in curriculum and nstruction select from multiple specialty tracks that align with professional goals and licensure interests. Each track provides focused preparation while maintaining a shared foundation in curriculum theory, research, and instructional leadership:
- Curriculum & Teaching: Focuses on advanced curriculum design, assessment practices, and instructional improvement across grade levels and content areas.
- TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages): Prepares educators to design and implement effective instruction for multilingual learners in diverse educational settings.
- Reading Specialist: Provides advanced preparation in literacy theory, assessment, and intervention, often aligned with reading specialist licensure requirements.
- Reading and Writing: Emphasizes literacy development, writing instruction, and evidence-based approaches to improving student communication skills.
Whether you’re seeking to deepen your instructional expertise or transition into a broader leadership role, the curriculum and instruction master’s provides a comprehensive and flexible pathway for career advancement that’s built for educators ready to lead meaningful change.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Curriculum and Instruction, MA/MSEKU School of Education and Human Sciences
The Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction is part of the School of Education and Human Sciences, preparing educators and human science professionals of the future.Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s master’s in curriculum and instruction program will be able to:
- Design inclusive, research-informed curricula aligned with diverse learner needs and standards.
- Apply theoretical and critical frameworks to analyze curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices.
- Conduct and interpret educational research to inform instructional and programmatic decisions.
- Use data to evaluate student learning and guide instructional improvement.
- Demonstrate culturally responsive and socially just approaches to teaching and curriculum leadership.
- Communicate research findings and professional insights effectively in written, oral, and digital formats.
What Careers Are Possible with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction?
Graduates of KU’s master’s in curriculum and instruction are prepared for leadership and specialist roles across K–12 schools, districts, and education-focused organizations. According to Lightcast labor market data, professionals with advanced preparation in curriculum leadership and instructional design are in steady demand.
A curriculum and instruction master’s can expand your opportunities to shape instructional quality, support teacher development, and strengthen student outcomes at scale.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers financial support through scholarships, graduate assistantships, and federal aid for qualifying students. Visit KU Financial Aid & Scholarships for full details on tuition, funding, and support.Admission Requirements
To apply to KU’s master’s in curriculum and instruction, applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (preferably in education or a related field)
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Provide official academic transcripts
- Submit a personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in the program
- Provide two letters of recommendation
- Include a current résumé or CV
- TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for non-native English speakers
Visit KU Graduate Admissions for more details.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in KU’s master’s in curriculum and instruction benefit from a fully online format that emphasizes collaboration, flexibility, and applied learning. Program highlights include:
- Opportunities to conduct practitioner research in your own classroom or educational setting.
- Coursework aligned with current educational standards and research-based practices.
- Access to KU’s libraries and digital research resources.
- Faculty mentorship from experts in literacy, multilingual education, STEM education, and curriculum studies.
- Pathways to continue into doctoral study in Curriculum & Teaching.
Through interactive coursework and professional networking, the MA and MSE in curriculum and instruction foster a supportive community of educators committed to continuous improvement and student success.
Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Sample Courses
Coursework in the master’s in curriculum and instruction balances theory, research, and applied practice. Sample courses include:
- Foundations of Curriculum and Instruction
- Pedagogical Considerations in the 21st Century Classrooms
- Differentiating Curriculum and Instruction
- Multicultural Education
View the full course list in the KU Catalog:
Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications deadlines for each term are:
- Spring semester: Jan. 6
- Summer semester: May 14
- Fall semester: Aug. 13
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.