Saint Joseph’s online Special Education MS features offers a rigorous, well-rounded curriculum addressing critical areas of special needs instruction.
Education MS — Curriculum and Instruction
Saint Joseph’s University’s 30-credit Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to meet the professional needs of candidates interested in learning how to develop curriculum for a diverse student population. An MS in Curriculum and Instruction is often the minimum level of education needed to enter this industry, making it an essential degree to obtain if you want to pursue this career path.
The core program is grounded in knowledge of curriculum theory, how to develop curriculum and instruction that meet the needs of diverse learners in varied educational settings, how to assess and evaluate curriculum and instruction, how to integrate technology into innovative curricula, and how to conduct research for generating new knowledge that advances curriculum and instruction for equity and inclusion.
The program has the flexibility to provide an individualized course plan that attends to the needs of certified teachers, STEM professionals working in the field of education, literacy specialists and coaches and curricula coordinators working in traditional and non-traditional school settings. Individuals who wish to obtain an M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction who do not seek professional certification will find the program individualized to meet their unique professional goals.
Note: This degree does not lead to teacher licensure.
Admission Information
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To be considered for admission you must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and have earned an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
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Visit our Graduate Admission Information page to learn more about admission requirements, key deadlines, additional requirements for international students and how to submit your application.
- Apply online.
- Submit official college transcripts from all colleges attended.
- Submit a personal statement.
- Submit resume.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
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Graduate applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. New students may enroll in courses during the fall, spring and summer semesters.
Start terms:
- Fall: August
- Spring: January
- Summer: May
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If you’re applying as an international student, you must provide proof of English Language Proficiency and Certification of Finances along with your application. Check the Graduate Admission page for more information about the application process and additional requirements for international students.
What Sets Our Program Apart
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Examine contemporary curriculum theories in education, identify challenges faced by current educators and education specialists and explore basic assumptions that influence current educational policy-making and reform.
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Gain knowledge and skills on how to design curriculum and instruction that responds to the needs of diverse learners in educational settings.
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Our program is taught by expert faculty members who are award-winning teachers, administrators and leaders in the field of education.
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Review current and emerging research in curriculum, instruction and assessment, evaluate textbooks and learning resources and analyze research on student test data, curriculum standards and assessment practices.
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Identify and integrate technology into curriculum and instruction and plan learning opportunities that drive innovation across your organization.
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Conduct research on any one area of curriculum and instruction to generate knowledge surrounding innovative practice in curriculum, instruction and assessment. Integrate new knowledge, skills and instructional practices into the candidate’s current educational settings.
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You will have the opportunity to connect with our strong network of alumni who are well-respected leaders and active practitioners in the education industry.
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Students in this program will complete six core courses followed by four courses in a concentration of their choice, which include:
- STEM Education
- English as a Second Language
- Literacy
- Supervisor of Special Education
What Can You Do With a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction?
The master’s in curriculum and instruction is ideal for teachers who seek to move into administrative roles and focus on curriculum design, student and institutional assessment, instructional strategies and education policy. In addition to working in a traditional school, you can also design training programs or become a chief learning officer within a corporate setting.
Additional careers for those with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction include:
- Curriculum specialist
- Instruction specialist
- Curriculum developer
- Training and development specialist
- Training and development manager
- Instructional coach
Program Details
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View required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the program curriculum.
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Affordable tuition options start at $862 per credit.*
*This rate applies to all students accepted by Saint Joseph's University after June 1, 2023. Tuition and fee rates for students accepted prior to June 1, 2023 differ. Pricing does not include room and board, health insurance or any professional, clinical or transportation fees. Visit our Tuition & Fees page or contact us for more information.
Financial aid may be available to you to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore your options on our Financial Aid page.
Discount EligibilityHave you completed a year or more of service with a recognized service organization? You may be eligible for our mission discount.
Alumni of Saint Joseph's are eligible to receive 10% off the cost of this program through our alumni discount.
Check with your employer to see if they are an Edcor or a Bright Horizons EdAssist member, which may entitle you to a discount on graduate programs.
Note: discounts cannot be combined. -
Saint Joseph’s University is approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation that assesses institutions for the highest available form of accreditation.
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SJU is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Service can help you access and understand your benefits.
Why Study Curriculum and Instruction in Philadelphia?
Here in Philadelphia, you’re surrounded by countless schools seeking curriculum and instruction specialists, and you will have the opportunity to network and secure careers with public, private and charter schools located in close proximity to Saint Joseph’s. The city’s diverse population and rich education employment opportunities offer a unique environment to gain experience in a variety of instructional settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Instructional Coordinators earn a median salary of $63,740 per year.
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The GRE is not required to apply for the MS in Curriculum and Instruction.
Related Programs
The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program at Saint Joseph’s University focuses on contemporary curriculum, ethics in education and educational planning.
Students in Saint Joseph's University's Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Transformational Change learn to lead with their mind and heart through the lens of equity to solve the complex educational challenges of the 21st century. Courses can be taken entirely online, on-campus or a combination of both.