35 Best Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Curriculum & Instruction in 2021

The University of Houston - Victoria awards a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Applicants should have appropriate teaching or related experience, along with access to a computer, webcam, and high-speed Internet. The 30-hour program combines research and experiential learning to build individuals' leadership skills. Students can choose to specialize in Educational Technology, Elementary Education, Elementary Mathematics; or Science Education, ESL and Literacy Studies, and Higher Education with Secondary Education. Core courses include Education in a Diverse Society, Human Growth and Development, and Principles of Curriculum Development. Students have the choice to earn reading and math teaching certifications.

UHV was established in 1973 as an off-campus center of the University of Houston. Located in the small city of Victoria, TX, the state university is one of four constituents of the University of Houston System. It also operates its satellite campus, UHV Katy, in a suburb of Houston. The University prioritizes personalized attention, with a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. UHV offers 70 different degree programs, many of which can be completed fully or partially online. UHV also engages with the community through its American Book Review literary journal, Small Business Development Center, and Regional Economic Development Center.

Columbus State University offers a Master of Education and Curriculum in Accomplished Teaching. The degree is offered in collaboration with Georgia Southern University and Valdosta State University. It is based upon standards developed by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission: Assessment, Content, Instruction, Knowledge of Curriculum, Professionalism, Research, and Students. The 36-hour curriculum emphasizes practical application of curriculum and instruction strategy in the classroom. Professional Education core courses include Multicultural Studies Across the Curriculum; Research Methodology in Education; and Trends, Issues, and Research in Education. Curriculum and Instruction core classes include Enhancing Student Performance, Framework for Teaching, and Professional Decision Making. The curriculum culminates in the production of a capstone portfolio.

Established in 1958, the university began as a junior college and hosiery mill called Columbus College. It is now a public university and a constituent institution of the University System of Georgia. In addition to its main and RiverPark campuses in Columbus, GA, CSU has a satellite campus in the nearby Fort Benning. The university operates the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, which includes a planetarium and observatory. Other facilities include the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, The Center for Global Engagement, and Pasaquan art environment. U.S. News & World Reportranks CSU at No. 42 for Top Public Schools and No. 19 for Most Innovative Schools.

Texas A&M University x individuals the choice between a Master of Education or Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Required courses include Classroom Management for Teachers; Diversity and Equality in Education; and Research Literature & Techniques. Support courses include Problems in Education, Differentiated Instruction, and Leadership & Supervision in Schools. Students can choose electives that lead to a qualification for teaching in high schools or community colleges. The program is offered entirely online, but students also have the option to complete it in a hybrid format with some on-campus classes.

Established in 1889, TAMUC began as East Texas Normal College with an original mission of teacher training. It is the fourth-oldest state university in Texas. It is also the third-largest institution in the Texas A&M University System. A public research university, it has a main campus in Hunt County, TX, and satellite campuses in Dallas, Mesquite, and Rockwall. It also provides courses on sites in Corsicana, Frisco, and Midlothian. The university's College of Education and Human Services is arguably its best-known college and is one of the foremost education-focused institutions in the state of Texas. U.S. News & World Reportranks TAMU at No. 100 in the nation in Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

The University of West Florida awards an online program leading to a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. While the program is offered entirely online, it is not available in every U.S. state. The M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to prepare graduates for teaching and leadership positions in elementary and secondary education. Students can choose to specialize in Elementary Education, Middle-Level Education, or Secondary Education. The curriculum includes seven core courses. Examples include Exceptionalities; Issues in Classroom Management; and Teacher Education: A Bio-Psycho-Social Perspective.

UWF was established in 1963 as a constituent institution of the State University System of Florida. It has the third-largest campus in the State University System. A public space-grant university, UWF is a comprehensive research university without faculties of law or medicine. The West Florida Argonauts lead the Gulf South Conference in all-time championships and all-sports trophies. The university's Fall 2018 enrollment included 12,850 students, 27 percent of which were enrolled online only, while 24 percent were graduate-level students. The University also uses the UWF acronym as a motivational motto for students: You Will Finish.

Sam Houston State University offers a research-based program leading to a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The program can also prepare educators to teach community college-level courses. SHSU students create a personalized plan of study with a department advisor. The 30-credit-hour curriculum includes classes in Current Issues in Education, Integrating Current Technology in Teaching, and Research in Teaching. All sessions are offered online, but certain minors include sections with face-to-face research meetings.

Established in 1879, SHSU is the third-oldest public university in the state of Texas. It was named after American soldier and politician Sam Houston, after whom the city of Houston was also named. It was the first teacher-training institution in Texas, and is one of the oldest west of the Mississippi River. Education continues to be the university's most popular major. The university is also known as one of the nation's most "wired," or technologically equipped, universities. U.S. News & World Reportranks SHSU 46th in Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Angelo State University offers a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction for the Advanced Instructor. The 36-credit-hour curriculum consists of 12 eight-week sessions, all offered with an entirely online format. Courses include Curriculum and Methodology Trends, Learning Theories, Social and Cultural Influences, and Tests and Measurements. The program provides opportunities for field experience through internships and practicum.

Angelo State was founded in 1928 as San Angelo College. It is now a public university and the second-largest campus in the Texas Tech University System. In 2018, the university was ranked among the nation's fastest-growing public universities by The Chronicle of Higher Education. U.S. News & World Reportranks ASU at No. 148 for Best Online Graduate Education Programs. The school mascot is the ram, and ram-related traditions include Ram Jam tailgating parties, and a Ram's Head hand signal, and the presence of live purebred Rambouillet rams at athletic events.

Northwest Missouri State University awards a fully online program leading to a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The degree has an emphasis on Engagement, Learning, and Achievement. The 30-credit-hour curriculum explores the best strategies for student success through change management, student engagement, and technology. NMSU offers courses including Culture and Student Engagement, Data Literacy and Assessment for Schools, and Visionary School Leadership. The curriculum culminates with a capstone action research project. Students must also participate in a culminating capstone seminar in which they complete a written competency assessment. The degree can be completed in as few as 12 months.

NMS was founded in 1905 as a teachers college. Located in Maryville, MO, the campus is based on the design for Forest Park at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. The public university is committed to sustainability, with the majority of its thermal energy provided through alternative fuels. Nationally noted academic programs include agriculture, business education, forensics, and student media. U.S. News & World Reportranks NMSU at No. 86m for Regional Universities Midwest and No. 19 for Top Public Schools nationwide.

The University of North Texas provides a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The degree program is designed for working educators. Students can choose from five specializations: Bilingual Education, Educational Leadership, ESL Education, Literacy Education, and Mathematics Education. The 30-hour curriculum is based on research and theory, though it also incorporates opportunities for field experiences and practical projects. Core courses include Advances in Teaching, Curriculum Development, and Schooling in A Multicultural Society. Course sessions are offered entirely online and allow students to set their schedule. The program culminates in an oral comprehensive exam.

Historically committed to teacher education, UNT was founded as the Texas Normal College and Teacher Training Institute. Now a public research university, it is the flagship campus of the University of North Texas System. U.S. News & World Reportranks UNT at No. 13 for Best Online Graduate Education Programs. Notable alumni include singers Norah Jones and Roy Orbison. The school mascot is the American eagle.

Purdue University awards a 30-credit Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The program emphasizes social justice, K-12 STEM education, and strengths-based approaches. It offers students the choice between four concentration areas: Educational Technology; English Language Learning; Gifted, Creative, and Talented Studies; and Mathematics Education. Core courses include Multicultural Education, Teachers as Leaders, and Theories and Trends in Curriculum and Instruction. The fully online program can be completed in 18 months.

Purdue was established in 1869 under the Morrill Act. It was named after businessman John Purdue, who donated land and money to bring the institution to life. Originally a land-grant college focused on agriculture, science, and technology, Purdue is now a public land-, sea-, and space-grant university. It is the second-largest university in Indiana and the flagship campus of the Purdue University system. U.S. News & World Reportranks the University at No. 56 for the nation, No. 17 among public schools, and at No. 6 for innovation. It is also ranked 29th for Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Florida International University offers a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Curriculum Development. The program emphasizes an approach to curriculum and instruction that adequately serves culturally diverse students. The 36-credit curriculum consists of six accelerated eight-week terms. It includes courses in Developing a Global Perspective, Education of the Child in Urban Society, and Learning Styles Application. Students can also participate in a Colloquium in Curriculum and Instruction and a Professional Conference. The coursework culminates in an Action Research Project.

FIU was established in 1965. It is a public research university classified as having the highest level of research activity by the Carnegie Foundation. It is a constituent institution of the 12-campus State University System of Florida. It is the largest university in South Florida, the second-largest in the state, and the fourth-largest in the country in terms of student enrollment. About 60 percent of the student population is Hispanic. According to U.S. News & World Report,92 percent of students live off-campus. The site ranks FIU 100th in Top Public Schools and 69th in Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Southern Arkansas University awards a 100 percent online program leading to a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. All candidates must hold a current teaching license. The program does not lead to licensure, but it is structured around competencies outlined by the National Board of Professional Teaching. Students must have at least one year of teaching experience, or sufficient letters granting them access to a classroom for research purposes. The plan of study includes required courses in Applications of Technology in Education, Classroom Assessment, and Educational Research. The 30-credit curriculum culminates in a master's capstone project.

Southern Arkansas University was established by the Arkansas state legislature in 1909 as an agricultural school. It has since grown into a public four-year comprehensive university offering more than 80 different degree programs. Its student-to-teacher ratio is 17 to 1, and it enrolls approximately 4,100 students. The university is noted for its unique Animation Design and Welding Engineering Technology programs. SAU students are nicknamed "Muleriders," and a popular student tradition is "Mulegating" before home football games.

The Armstrong campus of Georgia Southern University is home to the university's Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - Accomplished Teaching program. The degree is offered in collaboration with Columbus State University and Valdosta State University. Designed for working teachers, the program has no residency requirements and continuously offers courses to allow for part-time enrollment. The purpose of the advanced professional program is to add the field of Curriculum and Instruction to a Professional certificate. The 36-credit curriculum consists of 12 classes. Course offerings include Framework for Teaching, Knowledge of Students and Their Learning, and Multicultural Studies Across the Curriculum. Students culminate the program with the completion of an electronic portfolio.

Georgia Southern was established in 1906 as the land grant college First District Agricultural & Mechanical School. Its purpose soon shifted to teacher training, and the school was renamed the Georgia Normal School and then the South Georgia Teachers College. After numerous name and mission changes, the school assumed its current name and position as a public research university. GS has three campuses in Georgia: the Armstrong Campus in Savannah, the Liberty Campus in Hinesville, and the flagship campus in Statesboro. The Armstrong Campus, previously Armstrong State University, joined Georgia Southern in 2018. U.S. News & World Reportranks the University at No. 89 for Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a Master of Education in Educational Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on Elementary Instruction. The program was designed to advance the skills and accommodate the schedules of working teachers. The 30-credit curriculum includes five required classes: Curriculum in the Elementary School, Elementary Mathematics Methods, Research in Reading, Seminar in Early Childhood Education, Social Studies Education in Elementary School, and Teaching Language Arts in the Elementary Grades. Students then take 12 credit hours of elective courses.

Founded in 1910, Southern Miss began as Mississippi Normal College with the purpose of training teachers. The school has since evolved into a public research university with Carnegie-classified "high research activity." The university's research facilities include the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, the John C. Stennis Space Center, and an additional polymer science research center. In addition to its main campus in suburban Hattiesburg, Southern Miss also operates a campus in Long Beach, MS. The main campus is 105 miles from New Orleans, and the spirit of the city is alive in university events such as the Jazz & Blues Festival and Crawfish Fest.

The University of Texas at Arlington provides a 30-credit program leading to a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Students can choose to major in Literacy Studies, Mathematics, or Science. The Literacy Studies major is a non-thesis program which prepares graduates for Texas state Master Reading Teacher, Reading Specialist or Teaching English as a Second Language certification. Literacy Studies courses include Teaching the Writing Process and Understanding Literacy Research. Mathematics major subjects include Patterns and Algebra and Conceptual Geometry. Science major classes cover Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science. Each degree program can be completed entirely online in as few as 18 months.

UT Arlington was founded as Arlington College in 1895. Today, it is a public university categorized in the highest tier of research universities by the Carnegie Foundation. The university conducts innovative research in areas such as aerospace engineering, herpetology, and nanotechnology. The Chronicle of Higher Educationhas named the university one of the fastest-growing public research universities in the United States. U.S. News & World Reportranks the University at No. 126 for Top Public Schools and No. 46 for Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

The University of Central Missouri awards a 30-credit program leading to a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The program is designed for working teachers. The curriculum is built around the Five Propositions of Accomplished Teaching determined by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. MSE students can choose to specialize in K-12 Education, Middle-Level Education, or Secondary Education. Required classes include Contemporary Instruction: Theory and Practice; Curriculum Development and Assessment; and Introduction to Research. Class sessions can be completed online or in a hybrid format. Students must have work experience as a contracted teacher previously or by the end of the program to graduate. Each student must also produce a master's capstone portfolio.

Founded in 1871 as Normal School No. 2, the University of Central Missouri is deeply rooted in teacher training. The school gained its current name in 2006. Now a public state university, it serves more than 12,000 students. It has a main campus in rural Warrensburg, MO - about 50 miles from Kansas City - and also operates a campus in Lee's Summit. U.S. News & World Reportranks the University at No. 81 for the Midwest, No. 63 for best value, and No. 17 among public schools nationwide.

The University of Texas at Tyler awards a research-oriented Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Applicants must already be certified teachers or be in the process of obtaining certification. Students can choose from cognates in Educational Technology, Instructional Coaching, Single Academic Content Area - such as English or History - and STEM Education. The 30-credit-hour curriculum offers courses in Current Trends in Educational Technology, Historical and Philosophical Foundations of American Education, and Learning Technologies and Disabilities. As part of the coursework, students develop a research proposal, conduct research in their school setting, and report on their findings. The degree can be completed online, though some cohort groups can choose to take in-person lectures.

UT Tyler began as Tyler State College in 1971. Today, it is a public state university and a component institution of The University of Texas System. It has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.

Located in suburban Tyler, TX, its park-like campus is situated around Harvey Lake. A prominent campus feature is Riter Tower, which houses a 57-bell carillon instrument. The carillon is operated by an electronic keyboard connected at the university's music department and administration building and the base of the tower. U.S. News & World Reportranks UT Tyler 81st in Regional University West and 27th in Top Public Schools.

Peru State College provides a fully online Master of Science in Education. Individuals can move through the program in an accelerated cohort learning group format that works around a full-time teacher's schedule. The cohort format can be completed in as few as 19 months, with some courses spanning eight weeks and others spanning four. Alternatively, students can choose to complete the program individually in a flexible self-paced format. The 36-credit curriculum includes core classes in Cognition and Learning, Sociology of Education, and Technology and Mediated Instruction. Students can choose to pursue a Certificate of Advanced Studies, Supplemental Endorsement in ESL, or a Teaching Certificate Renewal.

Peru State is the oldest institution in Nebraska. It began as a normal school with the purpose of training elementary and secondary school teachers. It is now a public liberal arts college. Peru State's historic commitment to teacher education remains reflected in its largest and oldest academic program, the School of Education. Located in Peru, NE, the campus is nestled among the hills along the Missouri River.

Arizona State University provides a 30-credit Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The program specializes in Early Childhood Education, focusing on addressing the needs of children from birth through the age of eight. The curriculum covers areas of administration, advocacy, community collaboration, early childhood pedagogy, policy analysis, and technology. The course sequence consists of 10 courses, each spanning seven and a half weeks. It includes studies in Emergent Literacy; Foundations of Diversity, Human Development, and the Young Child; and Mathematics in Early Childhood Education. Students may choose to pursue teacher certification by taking an additional 15 credits of coursework. All classes are offered online, though the program also includes an in-person practicum placement.

ASU began in 1885 as the Territorial Normal School. The school has since grown into one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the United States. Its academic programs are spread across five campuses in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area and four additional learning sites through Arizona. ASU is categorized in the top tier of research universities by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It is a NASA-designated national space-grant institution. U.S. News & World Reportranks ASU at No. 115 for the nation, No. 52 among public schools, and No. 1 in Most Innovative Schools.

Adams State University provides a 30-credit hour Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction. The program enhances individuals' professional skills in administration, curriculum development, organizational training, and teaching. Students have the option to begin the program in the fall, spring, or summer semester. The plan of study is also flexible, allowing students to take just one class at a time or as many as best suits their needs. All courses are offered in a fully online capacity. The degree ends with a capstone project in the form of an APA-style paper and a PowerPoint presentation. If students are seeking an endorsement or license, they must also complete an internship experience.

Adams State was founded as a teachers college in 1921 under the name Adams State Normal School. It is now a state-supported public liberal arts university. Located in Alamosa, CO, the campus lies in the heart of the San Luis Valley along with the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. It is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges. The university is designated a Federal Hispanic Serving Institution, with Hispanic students making up over 25 percent of the student enrollment. The school mascot is the Grizzlies.

Arkansas State University provides a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction designed for working teachers. The program prepares individuals for licensure in areas such as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Gifted and Talented, or Special Education. The 36-credit curriculum includes core courses in Ethical Leadership, Philosophies of Education, and School Law. Students may also enroll in a course preparing them for Arkansas state teaching licensure. Each student must complete a seven-week internship in the field. The program can be completed fully online - apart from the internship - in as few as 20 months.

A-State was founded in 1909 as First District Agricultural School. It has since grown into a public research university. Located in Jonesboro, AR, the main campus sits on Crowley's Ridge, an unusual geographical formation that rises above the Mississippi embayment. The university also operates campuses in Paragould, AR, and Querétaro, Mexico. U.S. News & World Reportranks the University at No. 95 in Regional Universities South, No. 38 for Top Public Schools, and No. 115 for Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers, both, a Master of Education and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, each with a focus on New Literacies and Global Learning. NCSU designed this dual degree for experienced teachers, incorporating current trends and best practices to help advance and modernize teaching skills. The core curriculum includes courses such as New Literacies & Media, Teachers as Leaders, and Theory and Research in Global Learning. Global learning is emphasized through international travel experiences or virtual global learning experiences. NCSU's M.Ed. is structured in a hybrid format, with approximately half of the course requirements provided online and the rest offered on campus. Individuals enter the program as part of a cohort learning group. Individuals enter the program with a question related to their teaching practice and use a project-based inquiry approach through the program. The curriculum culminates in a project-based inquiry showcase.

NC State was founded as a land-grant college in 1887. Today, it is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university. Located in Raleigh, NC, the public university is one of 17 member institutions of the University of North Carolina system. Along with its three Raleigh campuses, NC State operates a research campus in Kannapolis. The research campus is devoted to biotechnology, exploring the health-promoting properties of various crops. The university's admissions are considered "more selective," with 24 percent of applicants accepted for Fall 2015. U.S. News & World Reportranks NC State 80th in the nation and 29th in Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Florida Gulf Coast University offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction designed for working professionals. The program is suitable for those who want to move into administrative or leadership roles in a K-12 school system. Individuals can choose from 10 concentrations, including Gifted Education, Middle School, and Reading. The program follows a cohort model, with groups of students progressing through the courses together. Individuals can choose from evening, online, and hybrid course offerings. Required major courses include Foundation of Measurement, Learning Principles, and Reflective Practitioner. The 36-credit curriculum culminates in a capstone Curriculum and Instruction seminar.

Established in 1991, FGCU is the second youngest member of the 12-member State University System of Florida. The main campus is located in suburban Lee County near Fort Myers, though the university also operates satellite campuses at the Atrium in Fort Myers, Naples, and the Herald Court Centre in Punta Gorda. It also manages a marine research laboratory in Bonita Springs. The university conducts additional research in areas including biotechnology, positive aging, and real estate. U.S. News & World Reportranks FGCU 78th in the South and 29th among public institutions.

Portland State University provides, both, a Master of Arts and a Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Both degrees emphasize ethics and cultural sensitivity in curriculum and instruction. The program follows a cohort model, with groups of students completing each course together. It also integrates peer-to-peer collaboration through interactive tools and technologies. Course offerings include Curriculum and Culture, Teacher Leadership, and Theories of Instruction. Some of the 45 credits of coursework can be applied toward related certificates and endorsements.

Established in 1946, PSU's original purpose was to educate veterans returning from World War II. Today, the university has a unique University Studies curriculum, which encourages interdisciplinary learning and culminates in a community-based senior capstone project. The university strives for environmental sustainability both in its new architecture and through the renovation of older buildings. U.S. News & World Reportranks PSU 89th in Best Online Graduate Education Programs and 32nd in Most Innovative Schools.

The University of Memphis' Master of Science in Instruction and Curriculum is designed to prepare graduates to work in leadership and advancement positions in K-12 education settings. The program does not lead to teaching licensure. Individuals who are already licensed may choose to pursue an additional Library Information Specialist licensure. The MS degree offers eight concentrations, including but not limited to Early Childhood, Literacy, and Special Education. The 30-credit-hour curriculum covers content areas of Inclusion, Literacy, and Technology. Course requirements include Models & Innovation of Education Technology, Seminar in Online Instruction, and Writing Theory and Practice. All courses can be completed entirely online. The program culminates in a master's project.

U of M was founded in 1912 by the state legislature. Originally named the West Tennessee Normal School, its sole purpose was to train teachers. Today, it is a public research university with an enrollment of more than 21,000 students. It is designated a "community engaged" doctoral research university by the Carnegie Foundation. Its research facilities include The Center for Earthquake Research and Information, The Advanced Distributed Learning Workforce Co-Lab, and The Institute of Egyptian Art and Archeology. The school mascot is a live Bengal tiger named TOM. It is tied for 139th in U.S. News & World Report's Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Valdosta State University provides a Master of Education and Curriculum and Instruction in collaboration with Columbus State University and Georgia Southern University. All applicants should be employed by a school and have access to a classroom. They must also be able to use video recording technology to record mock instruction for evaluation. The 36 semester hour curriculum consists of 12 courses. It includes three core courses, which include: Multicultural Studies across the Curriculum; Research Methodology in Education; and Trends, Issues, and Research in Education. The program has no residency requirements and can be completed 100 percent online. The degree can be completed in four consecutive full-time semesters, spanning about 16 months total. Courses are offered continuously, so students may alternatively complete the program on a part-time basis.

VSU was founded in 1906 as the South Georgia State Normal College. Today, the public university is one of four member institutions of the University System of Georgia. Located in the heart of Valdosta, GA, the campus consists of buildings in the Spanish Mission style of architecture. Known as "Azalea City," Valdosta is considered Georgia's newest metropolitan area. The university resides 20 miles from the Florida state line, halfway between Atlanta, GA, and Orlando, FL. The university also offers classes at the nearby Moody Air Force Base. U.S. News & World Reportranks VSU 139th in Best Online Graduate Education Programs.