Curriculum and Instruction Online Program

A Master's degree is available through an online program for those interested in pursuing a degree in Curriculum and Instruction. The 35-credit program is designed for preschool to twelfth grade teachers who have a desire to expand and deepen their theoretical knowledge, instructional expertise, and use of effective digital and print resources for diverse populations in the teaching and learning of reading and literacy. The foundation of this program is based on The International Reading Association standards and the College of Education’s Conceptual Framework which aims to support reading professionals in learning and teaching new, research-based methodologies. The program also assists these professionals in becoming advocates for collaborative, positive change in literacy education in their school, their district, and the community. A person with this type of degree can play a large role in improving the quality of education in the classroom by evaluating a school's program, measuring student achievement and making recommendations. Those who participate in a Curriculum and Instruction degree program often go on to take on roles as instructional designers and technologists or instructional coordinators, also known as curriculum specialists. Instructional Designers and Technologists develop instructional materials and products and assist in the technology-based redesign of courses. They also assist faculty in learning about, becoming proficient in, and applying instructional technology. Some responsibilities of an instructional coordinator or curriculum specialist include:

Researching teaching methods and techniques and develop procedures to ensure instructors are implementing the curriculum successfully and meeting program goals
Making recommendations by reviewing textbooks, software and other educational materials
Monitoring how teachers use materials in classrooms
Finding ways to use technology to enhance learning and oversee the introduction of new technology in course programs

Skills You Will Gain in a Curriculum and Instruction Online Program

To be successful as an instructional coordinator or curriculum specialist, an individual should:
Have a good understanding about how to teach specific groups of students
Expertise in developing educational materials
The ability to make established decisions about curriculum options
Have strong interpersonal and communication skills
Be able to organize and coordinate effectively

Future Employment Outlook for Curriculum and Instruction Online Program

According to the United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for instructional coordinators is expected to increase by 23 percent through 2018. This is a result of a growing emphasis on lifelong learning and on programs designed for students with special needs, including those for who English is a second language. Job opportunities will likely be best for those who specialize in reading, math and science - subjects targeted for improvement by the No Child Left Behind Act. There will also be an increase in the need for more instructional coordinators to show teachers how to use the latest technology in their classrooms. From May 2010, there were 128,780 people employed as instructional coordinators earning a median annual wage of $58,830. The lowest 10 percent earned $33,490 and the highest 10 percent earned $93,080.