Curriculum and Instruction Specialization

The Curriculum and Instruction Specialization at California State University offers a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare future educators and education professionals with expert knowledge and practical skills in curriculum development, instructional strategies, and educational leadership. This specialization is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their teaching effectiveness, develop innovative curricula, and contribute to the improvement of educational practices across diverse learning environments. Through a combination of theoretical foundations and hands-on experiences, students will explore current trends and research in curriculum design, technology integration, assessment methods, and inclusive education. The program emphasizes practical application, encouraging students to develop, implement, and evaluate curriculum initiatives that meet the needs of diverse learners. With dedicated faculty who are experienced practitioners in the field, the specialization provides opportunities for collaborative projects, internships, and research activities that reinforce classroom learning and support professional growth. Graduates of this program will be equipped to serve effectively in K-12 settings, higher education institutions, and education-related organizations. They will possess a strong understanding of curriculum standards, instructional methodologies, and educational policies, enabling them to lead curriculum development efforts and foster continuous improvement in educational settings. The program's flexible coursework options cater to working professionals, offering evening classes and online learning components. Upon completion, students will be well-prepared to take on leadership roles in curriculum planning, instructional coaching, or educational consulting. The Curriculum and Instruction Specialization at California State University is committed to cultivating innovative educators who can effect meaningful change and advance educational excellence across diverse communities.

Masters Core Courses  (7-9 units) 
•  EDUC 605 - Education in a Diverse Society Units: 3 
•  EDUC 615 - Principles of Educational Research Units: 3 
Select either: 
•  EDUC 616 - Masters Research Thesis/Project Units: 1-3 
•  or 
•  EDUC 618 - Comprehensive Examination Units: 1-3 
•  or 
•  EDUC 619 - Masters Project Units: 1-3 

Required Courses for Specialization (10 units) 
•  EDCI 600 - Curriculum: History and Analysis Units: 3 
•  EDCI 605 - Assessment in the Classroom Units: 4 
•  EDCI 610 - Research on Teaching Units: 3 
Electives (15 units) 
(Six units must have an EDCI Prefix; 9 units must be 500-level and higher; Up to 6 units may be 
transferred from credential coursework or 500-level or higher education courses.) 

Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement 
Writing proficiency for the awarding of the degree is demonstrated by successful completion of 
EDUC 605 - Education in a Diverse Society, with a grade of B or higher. 

Application — Apply to both the University Admissions office and the School of Education.

One set of Official Transcripts — One official set of transcripts from each of the colleges or universities attended must be mailed directly to the CI Admissions office. Must have a BA or BS degree. Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in the last 60 units is required to be accepted into the Master of Education Curriculum and Instruction Specialization.

Experience — Documentation of at least one year of successful teaching experience.

Two Letters of Recommendation — Two letters of recommendation from professionals who are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional work, one of whom is the candidate’s current school administrator or employer.

Interview — Interview with School of Education Admissions Committee.

Writing Sample — A written statement of purpose (500- 600 word essay) describing why the candidate desires to pursue a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. This essay will include reflection on teacher preparation experiences thus far, personal professional goals, and ways in which the candidate’s knowledge and skills will be developed to achieve these goals.

The financing of the Curriculum and Instruction Specialization program at California State University is structured to accommodate a diverse student body, including in-state residents, out-of-state students, and international learners. The program's funding comprises several sources, primarily tuition fees paid by students, supplemented by state and institutional funding. For in-state students, tuition fees are comparatively affordable, reflecting California's commitment to accessible higher education. Out-of-state and international students are required to pay higher tuition rates, which help subsidize the costs of the program and support university resources. Additionally, the university offers various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans, to assist eligible students with the costs associated with their studies. Graduate assistantships and teaching assistant positions may also provide stipends and tuition waivers for qualified students, offering valuable financial support while gaining practical experience. The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance on applying for aid and understanding the financial commitments involved. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities, including private scholarships and fellowships relevant to education and instructional studies. The program's affordability is also bolstered by a strategic allocation of university funds aimed at maintaining high-quality instruction and resources, including access to modern classrooms, teaching laboratories, and digital learning tools. Overall, the financing structure aims to make the program accessible to a broad spectrum of students while ensuring the sustainability and continuous improvement of the curriculum offerings.

The Curriculum and Instruction Specialization at California State University offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare educators for diverse teaching environments and leadership roles in education. This program emphasizes the development of effective instructional strategies, curriculum design, assessment techniques, and the integration of technology to enhance student learning. It is tailored for current and future educators seeking to deepen their understanding of pedagogical theories and practices. The curriculum typically includes coursework covering core educational principles, curriculum development, instructional methods, classroom management, and educational technology. Students may have opportunities for practical experience through fieldwork, internships, or student teaching placements, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program also emphasizes research skills and data-driven decision-making to improve instruction and student outcomes. Designed to meet the needs of teachers at various levels—from elementary to secondary education—this specialization aims to prepare graduates to become innovative educators, curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators, or academic leaders. Admission requirements generally include relevant teaching credentials or professional experience in education, along with academic transcripts demonstrating the applicant’s background in education or related fields. Graduates of the program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environments. The program aligns with California’s educational standards and might offer endorsements or certifications that support career advancement within the state's public school systems. Overall, the Curriculum and Instruction Specialization at California State University is geared toward enhancing the pedagogical expertise of educators and promoting continuous improvement in educational practice.