Curriculum and instruction in education deals with, respectively, courses/ coursework and the practice of teaching. Experts in this area of education assess, design and implement academic programs using student data and research into educational trends and needs. This is done with the intent of providing improved learning experiences for students, which in turn may positively impact the economy, especially if the effort helps solve some of the problems related to politics, socio-economics, student diversity, etc.
Careers in Curriculum and Instruction
This article looks at the 25 best, most affordable, accredited, online masters degrees in curriculum and instruction. Careers or work environments for graduates of such online degree programs may include any of the following (partial list). The online masters degree rankings start after the Methodology section.
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- Academic Facilitator
- Admissions Counselor (University/ Community College)
- Adult ESL, Literacy or GED Instructor
- Adult Education Instructor
- Adult Literacy, GED and ESL Teacher
- After-School Program/Youth Organization Director
- Bilingual Education Teacher (any level)
- Career/Technical Educator
- Classroom Teacher
- Community College Academic Advisor
- Content Specialist
- Corporate Trainer
- Curriculum Coordinator
- Curriculum Designer
- Curriculum Developer
- Curriculum Facilitator/Leader
- Curriculum Specialist
- Curriculum and Assessment Director
- Department Chair
- Director of Curriculum and Instruction
- Education Administrator (Elementary and Secondary Schools)
- Educational Consultant
- Educational Policy Developer
- English Language Teacher
- High School Teacher
- Instructional Coach
- Instructional Coordinator
- Instructional Designer
- Instructional Mentor
- Instructional Systems Specialist
- Learning Strategies Director
- Math and Science Education Mentor
- Mathematics or Science Specialist (in School Districts)
- Online K-12 Instructor
- Postsecondary Education Teacher
- Private Tutor
- Professional or Corporate Trainer
- Program Administrator
- Public School/ District Administrator
- School/Career Counselor
- Textbook Researcher/Editor
- Training and Development Manager
- Training and Development Specialist
Affordable Degrees Ranking Methodology
Data for the colleges listed in this online master’s degree ranking article comes from NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) and IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) Data Center, both maintained by the U.S. Dept of Education.
- Step 1: Query NCES for public U.S. institutions offering “distance” graduate programs in Curriculum and Instruction.
- Step 2: Refine the results with data from IPEDS, of colleges offering online master’s programs.
- Step 3: Combine the two resulting data sets based on IPEDS ID.
- Step 4: Sort the candidate colleges initially on the basis of institutional graduate tuition average.
- Step 5: Select the first 25 institutions that offer relevant online/ hybrid/ blended masters programs (e.g., filter out candidates that either only offer a grad certificate, or which no longer offer a program despite being listed as such in NCES.
- Step 6: For each of the final 25 institutions, find/ estimate the in-state program cost, using tuition, per-credit fees, per-course, and/or per-semester fees.
- Step 7: Sort descending, by estimated in-state cost.
NOTES:
- Actual tuition for a master’s in curriculum and instruction at a given institution may vary from what is listed here when fees or any institutional financial aid is factored in. Verify all costs and requirements before applying to any college/ university.
- The estimated in-state cost listed for each ranked college is based on graduate tuition plus per-credit and per-course fees.
- For programs in which a program cost is explicitly stated and includes fees without a breakdown, we have used this cost as is.
- For programs in which the tuition is variable on number of credits/ courses taken per semester and/or duration to complete, we have assumed two courses maximum per semester and calculated cost on that basis.
- For programs with variable credits based on track options, estimated cost is based on the minimum credit requirement.
- For programs with costs varying by semester, we’ve used the latest Spring or Fall rates, as available, or Summer rates otherwise.
- For all other situations (unless stated below), we’ve estimated cost based on six credits per semester, which is the minimum required to qualify for federal financial aid at the graduate level.
- While we’ve applied the above rules to estimate program cost, some institutions listed may offer a lower cost through per-term tuition options.
- We have used only estimated costs. The academic institutions listed in this college ranking of online master’s degrees may charge additional fees, and overall charges are subject to change.
Terminology and Acronyms
CAEP is a newer accrediting body and currently part of NCATE (see both below), and replaces both NCATE and TEAC. In the ranking entries in this article, we have left intact the reference to either based on usage by each institution.
- AAQEP – Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
- CAEP – Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- NCATE – National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Accreditation (founded 1954)
- TEAC – Teacher Education Accreditation Council (founded 1997)
Best, Most Affordable Online Master’s of Curriculum and Instruction
25. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Sam Houston State University (SHSU, est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
SHSU has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a hybrid Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd-CI).
This is a high-value, 30-credit, hybrid, non-certification master’s degree program with mostly online courses (excluding some minors), with some in-person research meetings. The program emphasizes different aspects of curriculum, including methodology, pedagogy and applications of theory, and students can consult an academic advisor to choose a preferred study plan. Graduates of this program will gain the qualifications for teaching at the community college level (or dual credit courses), and for developing curriculum then implementing the changes. Note: the more credits taken per semester, the lower the per-credit cost.
Sample online courses include: Advanced Research in Teaching; Integrating Current Technology in Teaching; Curricular Trends for Class Teaching.
- Cost: $18,112.50 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 21,213
- #grads: 2,715
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Awards: U.S. News & World Report (Best Online Programs – Graduate Education)
24. University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP, est. 1914) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System. It offers best-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UTEP has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction with two Concentration options: Bilingual Education; Early Childhood Education (ECE).
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, 100% online, non-thesis master’s degree program delivered by the College of Education. The MEd prepares educators to become curriculum specialists, either for bilingual students or very young children – depending on the concentration selected. Individuals who select the ECE option can find career roles outside of the school setting, in any of the following niches: children’s clothing; children’s entertainment; children’s museums; game or toy design; parks and playgrounds; pediatrics; retail management; social work.
Sample core online courses include: Research for the Classroom Teacher; Learning Contexts and Curriculum; Research for the Classroom Teacher.
- Cost: $17,640.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 25,151
- #grads: 3,687
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
23. Ohio Valley University
Vienna, West Virginia
Ohio Valley University (OVU, est. 1960) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Church of Christ. It offers econommical associate’s through master’s level degree programs.
OVU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd-CI).
This is a high-value, 36-credit, online, non-certification, non-thesis master’s degree program delivered by the Graduate School of Learning and Leading within the College of Education. Topics covered include curriculum assessment and design, current education issues, research-based best practices for teaching and learning. The MEd is suitable for certified educators at any level, including for professional development or continuing education.
Sample online courses include: Advanced Educational Psychology; Implementing Instructional Strategies; Curriculum Design and Development. A Capstone experience is required.
- Cost: $14,940.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- Transfer: up to nine credits
- #students: 509
- #grads: 28
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
22. Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas
Wichita State University (WSU, est. 1895) is a public institution and a member of the Kansas State University System. It offers high-quality associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
WSU has one low cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) – Learning and Instructional Design (LID) with five Specialization areas:
- Educational Technology
- ESOL (English for Students of Other Languages)
- Interdisciplinary STEM Education
- Interdisciplinary, student-designed focus
- Literacy
This is an inexpensive, 36-credit, online master’s degree program with a choice of thesis or non-thesis (capstone) tracks. It is aimed at a range of educators, including K-12 educators, instructional designers, professional and corporate trainers, preparing them for not just curriculum and instruction, but also planning and managing learning environments, and applying emerging technology for course design and delivery.
Sample online courses include: Learning Theory and Curriculum Design; Inquiry into Instructional Practice; Instructional Leadership: Professionalism and Collaboration.
- Cost: $14,649.84 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 15,778
- #grads: 2,772
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
21. Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Indiana State University (ISU, est. 1865) is a public institution. It offers top-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
ISU has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Teaching and Learning with a Concentration in Curriculum and Instruction (five other concentrations available).
This is a low-cost, 33-credit, online, non-licensure, full-time, NCATE/CAEP-accredited master’s degree program delivered by the Bayh College of Education, with no on-campus visits required, expected to be completed in 18-24 months full-time. Skills and knowledge gained in this MEd are applicable in many areas: business and industry, education (schools, community/ technological colleges), health services, social agencies, etc.
Sample online courses include: Research in Education; Curriculum Fundamentals; Learning Theory and Instructional Strategies.
- Cost: $14,377.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 13,044
- #grads: 2,094
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
20. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV, est. 2013) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System, formed from the merger of two older UT System institutions. UTRGV is reputedly the largest institution with a majority Hispanic-origin institution in the country. It offers top-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UTRGV has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd-CI) with two Specialization options:
- Mathematics Education
- Elementary Math and Science Education – no teaching experience required
This is an economical, 30-credit, online master’s degree program expected to take 10 months (7-week courses). Depending on the track selected, skills gained are applicable in a classroom setting or beyond, in roles that include curriculum specialist, mentor to educators, instructional coach, administration and policy, and more.
Sample online courses include: Research Methods in Education; Foundations of Learning, Cognition and Human Development; Models and Methods in Science Education.
- Cost: $13,749.90 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 28,644
- #grads: 3,966
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
19. Greenville University
Greenville, Illinois
Greenville University (GU, est. 1892) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Free Methodist Church. It offers affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs.
GU has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) degree with a Concentration in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) – other concentrations available.
This is a high-value, 30-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the College of Social Science and Education, requiring no teaching certificate for admission. Students are typically educators, and skills gained include assessment and development of curriculum, instructional methods, and understanding of educational trends and issues, amongst others.
Sample online concentration courses include: Assessment for Learning; Instruct Methods/Program Evaluate; Curricular Design. Completion of a Capstone experience is required.
- Cost: $13,470.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- Transfer: up to six credits
- #students: 1,132
- #grads: 168
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
18. Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Fitchburg State University (FSU, est. 1894) is a public institution. It offers high-quality bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
FSU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education in Curriculum and Teaching (MEd-CT) with seven focus areas:
- Assessment
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Diversity
- Literacy
- Technology
- Secondary and Elementary Education
- Special Education
This is a low-priced, 36-credit, online, non-licensure, master’s degree program expected to take at least 12 months. Skills gained are useful in any sort of curriculum specialist role in an educational setting, or even outside the classroom. This includes: educational theory; assessment, design and implementation of curricula; understanding societal issues impact on curriculum; mentoring of educators; etc.
Sample online courses include: Using Data to Improve Student Learning; Strategies for Creating a Positive Learning Environment; Curriculum and Assessment for Teachers. Completion of a Capstone experience (“Implementation of Best Practices”) is required.
- Cost: $13,392.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7,199
- #grads: 3,036
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
17. Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
Florida Atlantic University (FAU, est. 1961) is a public institution and a member of the State University System of Florida. FAU serves students on campus and online, and has a mission to become an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution). It offers inexpensive associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
FAU has one affordable online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction with six specializations:
- Multicultural Education (fully online)
- TESOL and Bilingual Education (fully online)
- Early Childhood Education
- Teacher Leadership Certification
- Multicultural Education Certificate
- Individualized
Delivered by the Department of Curriculum, Culture and Educational Inquiry within the Fau College of Education, this is a best-value, 36-credit, online master’s degree program expected to take 24 months, allowing students to teach while studying. As a non-licensure program, it is designed for students with a teaching certificate (or not interested in it). Concepts learned are applicable at any level of education, whether in the classroom or within organizations that are in the education niche.
Sample online courses include: Design Components of Curriculum; Program Evaluation in Curriculum and Instruction; Global Perspectives of Curricular Trends Across Nations. Students will complete a Capstone experience.
Alternatives: Education Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction.
- Cost: $13,385.52 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 29,772
- #grads: 5,396
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
16. Chadron State College
Chadron, Nebraska
Chadron State College (CSC, est. 1911) is a public institution and a member of the Nebraska State College System. It offers high-value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs.
CSC has one low-cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) with 10 fully-online specializations and two partially online specializations:
- General Education (elementary)
- Career and Technical Education (secondary)
- Educational Technology (elementary and secondary)
- Mathematics (elementary and secondary)
- Physical Education (elementary and secondary)
- Reading Specialist PK-12
- Social Science (elementary and secondary)
- Special Education K-12
- Special Education/ Early Childhood Special Education
- Business Education (secondary)
- Language Arts (elementary)
- Science (elementary and secondary)
This is an affordable, 36-credit, online master’s degree program intended for educators holding a teaching certificate (or eligible for one). This online master’s degree program builds skills and knowledge in several areas of education, including administration, assessment, counseling, curriculum, research and supervision. Students of this MEd can customize the program by selecting one of the aforementioned specialization options, of which most are fully online.
Sample online courses include: Educational Philosophy; Curriculum Development; Advanced Methods of Performance Assessment.
- Cost: $13,347.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2,448
- #grads: 528
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
15. University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW, est. 1947) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. It offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UNCW has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum Studies for Equity in Education.
This is a top-value, 30-credit, hybrid master’s degree program delivered by the Department of Educational Leadership within the Watson College of Education. Classes are online (some synchronous), and two short residencies are required. The program is aimed at educators and administrators in P-12 learning settings, and covers a range of topics including curriculum studies, global education, social justice, pedagogy and more.
Sample courses include: Curriculum Studies; Social Justice Issues in Curriculum and Instruction; Global Perspectives in Education. Students will also complete a Culminating Project.
- Cost: $13,107.40 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 16,747
- #grads: 2,295
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
14. University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, Nebraska
University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK, est. 1905) is a public institution and a member of the University of Nebraska System. Originally founded as a teacher training institution, it offers best-value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UNK has one low cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction (MAE-CI) with 11 online or blended Specialization options:
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Instructional Effectiveness (multiple focus area options)
- Montessori – Early Childhood (mostly online)
- Montessori – Elementary I (mostly online)
- Reading/Special Education
- Secondary Education
- School Librarian
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Transitional Certification
This is an affordable, 36-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the Department of Teacher Education (College of Education), requires a teaching certificate for admission, and is primarily a non-licensure degree (excepting the ESL specialization). Students in all tracks will complete a practicum and either a project or comprehensive exam. The low-cost online master’s degree program is aimed at K-12 teachers in all topic areas seeking to be more effective in the classroom.
Sample online courses include: Education Research; Curriculum Development in Multicultural Education; Technology Tools for Teachers.
- Cost: $13,005.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 6,327
- #grads: 1,843
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
13. University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
University of North Texas (UNT, est. 1890) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Texas System. Originally founded as a private teacher’s college, it currently offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UNT has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with multiple Specialization options, including but not limited to:
- Counseling
- Diversity
- Early Childhood Education
- ESL and Bilingual Education
- Gifted/ Talented Education
- Literacy Education
- Mathematics Education (middle school, high school)
- School Administration
- Special Education
- Technology
This is an affordable, 30-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the Department of Teacher Education and Administration within the College of Education. Graduates of the MEd will be prepared for educational leadership roles (including at district level) for curriculum and instruction in any of the specialization areas listed above, and beyond. Students may also choose to pursue a doctorate degree afterwards.
Sample online courses include: Schooling in a Multicultural Society; Curriculum Development; Research in Classroom Settings. Completion of an “oral comprehensive capstone” is part of the requirements.
- Cost: $12,837.93 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 38,241
- #grads: 6,866
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
12. Missouri Southern State University
Joplin, Missouri
Missouri Southern State University (MSSU, est. 1937) is a public institution. It offers high-value associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
MSSU has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Science in Education degree, Curriculum and Instruction (MSE-CI) with several Emphasis options (to be discussed with an academic advisor)
Delivered by the Department of Teacher Education within the College of Education, this is an affordable, 36-credit, online CAEP-accredited master’s degree program expected to take six semesters. Graduates will become content specialists, build on their teaching skills, learning to better understand their students’ needs, and incorporate their assessments into better planning of curriculum.
Sample online courses include: Advanced Content Area Literacy; Assessment of Student Learning; Curriculum Construction. Students will complete a comprehensive exam.
- Cost: $12,600.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 6,006
- #grads: 155
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
11. Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Angelo State University (ASU, est. 1928) is a public institution and a member of the Texas Tech University System. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
ASU has one high-value online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with three Track options: Advanced Instructor; Professional Education; Teacher Studies.
This is a low-cost, 36- to 42-credit, online master’s degree program (extra cost for 42cr) with an in-person internship/ clinical teaching experience. Students take 12 required courses (no electives), and some tracks require in-person fieldwork for internships/ clinical teaching. Students gain skills for evaluating student needs and abilities, modifying curricula and instructional approaches, utilizing new technology for learning experiences, and more. Note: educators seeking Texas Teacher Certification can do so through ASU’s certification plan. Contact their EPI Center for more info.
Sample online courses include: Curriculum Development; Instructional Issues: Theory and Practice; Curriculum Evaluation. Some tracks will require completion of a Capstone.
- Cost: $11,899.20 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 10,387
- #grads: 1,715
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
10. Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Arkansas State University (A-State, est. 1909) is a public institution and a member of the Arkansas State University System. It offers best-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
A-State has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Science in Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction (MSE-CI) with three tracks: Curriculum Director; Special Education Director; Arkansas Licensure.
This is an affordable, 36-credit, online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program expected to take at least 20 months and requiring completion of a Curriculum Internship. Graduates gain skills in leadership, practice, evaluation and improvement of curriculum, instructional best practices, development of tools for other educators seeking to become curriculum specialists, organizational and management skills, etc.
Sample online courses include: Philosophies of Education; Theories of Instruction; Curriculum Management.
Alternatives: Educational Specialist (EdS) in Educational Leadership/ Curriculum Director with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction.
- Cost: $11,412.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 13,709
- #grads: 4,359
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
9. Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Shreveport, Louisiana
Louisiana State University-Shreveport (LSUS, est. 1967) is a public institution and a member of the Louisiana State University System. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
LSUS has one low cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with six Emphasis options:
- General
- Education Technology Leader (Ed Tech)
- English as a Second Language
- Reading and Literacy
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
- Urban Education
This is a high-value, 30-credit, online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program of 10 courses (seven weeks each), which is expected to take 10-24 months (courses are seven weeks each). The General emphasis program prepares educators with skills for developing and testing curriculum, applying learning principles and best practices. Qualified students may be eligible for a TEACH Grant. Students can consult their academic advisor to choose one of the other emphasis options if they have a more specific focus area in mind.
Sample online courses include: Curriculum; Utilizing Data for School Improvement; Curriculum and the Multicultural Classroom.
- Cost: $33,609.30 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7,036
- #grads: 4,525
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
8. Texas A&M International University
Laredo, Texas
Texas A&M International University (TAMIU, est. 1969) is a public institution and a member of the Texas A&M University System. It offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs.
TAMIU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with three online Specialization options:
- Bilingual Education
- Educational Administration
- Reading
- (additional on-campus-only options available)
This is an inexpensive, 33-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the College of Education that offers a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks, and is expected to take at least 12 months. The program prepares participants for leadership roles in curriculum, building skills in research, evaluation, models of teaching, and more. Typical careers for graduates include curriculum developer, educational consultant, educational policy developer, amongst others.
Sample courses include: Foundations of Curriculum; Evaluation of Curriculum and Instruction; Advanced Theories for Learning.
- Cost: $11,081.73 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 7,884
- #grads: 892
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
7. Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, Utah
Western Governors University (WGU, est. 1997) is a private, nonprofit institution. It offers high-value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
WGU has one cheap online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction (MSCI).
This is an affordable, 30-credit, CAEP- and AAQEP-accredited online master’s degree program consisting of 13 courses, and which does not require a teaching license for admission. Most courses are offered online, though some have in-class requirements. Graduates will gain the skills and knowledge to take on leadership roles in curriculum and instruction including in content and pedagogy. (Note: WGU claims most students complete the MSCI in 18 months, and charges tuition and fees by the term).
Sample online courses include: Introduction to Curriculum Theory; Curriculum Design; Curriculum Evaluation. Students must complete a capstone experience.
Alternatives: MEd in Instructional Design.
- Cost: $11,055.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 121,437
- #grads: 32,516
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
6. Dordt University
Sioux Center, Iowa
Dordt University (DU, est. 1955) is a private, nonprofit, Christ-centered institution. It offers high-quality associate’s through master’s level degree programs.
DU has one affordable online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with six Specialization options:
- Teacher Leadership
- Special Education
- Developmental Reading
- Early Childhood Education
- Educational Technology
- Instructional Coach – 10.5 credit certificate program available for those who complete the MEd in this option
This is an affordable, 30-credit, 100% online master’s degree program consisting of 10-12 courses (dependent on specialization), with 15-week semesters (eight in summer), and typically taking 2-3 years overall. The majority of the aforementioned specializations require completion of a field experience or internship, to supplement the skills and knowledge gained in the MEd with hands-on experience. Career opportunities for graduates depend on the specialization completed. Note: some of the above specializations can or do lead to licensure.
Sample online courses include: Learner Development and Principles of Learning; Curriculum Development and Evaluation; Best Practices in Instructional Strategies.
- Cost: $10,500.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1,564
- #grads: 140
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
5. Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, Missouri
Northwest Missouri State University (NMSU, est. 1905) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher’s college. It offers economical associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
NMSU has one low-cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with two options: General with an emphasis in Engagement, Learning and Achievement; Teaching Technology.
This is a best-value, 30-credit, online, NCATE-accredited master’s degree program expected to take at least 12 months. Graduates of this MSEd will acquired educational skills allowing them to design curriculum and instruction to be more effective, using research and data that includes brain science, as well as ensuring that all students are included, regardless of their background. What is learned can be applied both in formal education, as well as for corporate training.
Sample online courses include: Data Literacy and Assessment for Schools; Change Management in Education; Trends and Issues in Curriculum and Instruction. A capstone is part of the requirements.
- Cost: $9,750.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 6,857
- #grads: 1,203
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
4. East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
East Carolina University (ECU, est. 1907) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. It offers best-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 100 online programs alone.
ECU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Arts in Education (MAED) degree in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) with two teaching areas: English Education; History/ Social Studies Education. Topics of study cover effective communication, and current issues in education, amongst others. Students will complete a “final product,” which depends on their area of teaching. This culminating might be a thesis, comprehensive exam (oral or written), portfolio or research project, to be determined in collaboration with an academic advisor.
This is a low-cost, 36- to 39-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the College of Education and requiring a North Caroline teaching license.
Sample online courses include: Introduction to Research; Trends and Issues in Educational Research for Practitioners; Understanding and Engaging in Educational Research. A research project is part of the curriculum.
- Cost: $8,973.36 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 28,718
- #grads: 5,647
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Awards: U.S. News & World Report (Best Graduate Programs)
3. North American University
Stafford, Texas
North American University (NAU, est. 2007) is a private, nonprofit institution. NAU comes in third in this ranking of affordable, accredited, online master’s degrees in curriculum and instruction. It offers top-value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs.
NAU has one low cost online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) with four Emphasis options:
- Science Education
- Educational Technology
- Mathematics Education
- English Language Arts Education
This is an inexpensive, 30-credit, 100% online master’s degree program, with a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks. Students of this MEd build on their knowledge of human development, learning environments, development of curricula, integrating technology into learning experiences, the role of STEM subjects and English language arts, current educational research, and more.
Sample online courses include: Curriculum and Instructional Design; Integrating Technology into Education; Seminar in Curriculum and Instruction.
- Cost: $8,515.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 558
- #grads: 275
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
2. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC, est. 1946) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. UNCC earns second place in our ranking of accredited, online, affordable master’s degrees in curriculum and instruction. It offers high-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UNCC has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd-CI) with three specialization options: Middle Grades (6-9); Secondary Education (9-12); Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL; K-12).
This is a low-priced, 33-credit, 100% online, NCATE-accredited, master’s degree program delivered by the Cato College of Education and accredited by NCATE. The selected concentration and courses must be in the student’s initial licensure area (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, TESL, etc.) for North Carolina. (Some of the above-listed concentrations have topical tracks — see site for details.) Students will build their knowledge of multiple topics, including: analysis of teaching; curriculum theory and development; research methodology; use of technology in teaching and others.
Sample online courses include: Curriculum, Teaching, and Contemporary Issues in Education; Adolescence and Learning; Globalization, Communities, and Schools;
Alternatives: PhD in Curriculum and Instruction.
- Cost: $8,316.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 29,710
- #grads: 5,323
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
1. University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, Texas
University of Texas at Tyler (UTT, est. 1971) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System. UTT wins first place in this ranking of affordable, accredited, online masters degrees in curriculum and instruction. It offers high-quality bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UTT has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in curriculum and instruction: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with five Focus areas:
- Educational Technology
- Engineering Education
- Instructional Coaching
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) Education
- Single Academic Content Area (English, History, etc.)
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, online program delivered by the School of Education within the College of Education and Psychology and expected to take 15-18 months. For admission, students must either hold a teaching certificate or currently seeking such. (Note: Some focus areas listed above may have in-person requirements.) Students of this MEd will gain experience in developing the curricula for a customized degree program.
Sample online courses include: Applied Learning Theories; Assessment in Educational Settings; Diversity in Educational Settings.
- Cost: $7,540.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 10,206
- #grads: 2,873
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
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