Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher)

Hours: 30 Online

About

Fort Hays State University offers a flexible MSE in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program explicitly designed for licensed educators.

This 30-credit program empowers educators (PK-12) to hone their skills, deepen their knowledge, and earn a valuable graduate credential. Whether seeking career advancement or wanting to stay at the forefront of pedagogy, this accredited online program offers the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Why pursue an MSE in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher) at Fort Hays State University?

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program at FHSU equips you with the diverse knowledge and skills needed to improve student learning across various subjects and grade levels. It translates to a streamlined program of only 30 credits, compared to the 36 credits required by many other institutions.

Fort Hays State University's program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential topics such as curriculum development, instructional design, assessment of student learning, differentiated instruction, and educational research. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively design and implement instruction that meets the needs of diverse learners and promotes student success.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program at Fort Hays State University is a fully online, 30-credit program designed to empower various individuals seeking to advance their education career. Here are some of the individuals who can benefit most from this program:

Licensed teachers
Instructional coordinators
Individuals seeking career advancement
International students

Learning Outcomes

Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program equips educators with the knowledge and skills to improve student achievement in today's diverse classrooms. Through this program, educators develop expertise in various areas, as outlined by our program's learning outcomes:

Design Engaging Learning Experiences

Develop expertise in applying instructional design models, implementing peer review and field testing of research-based units, and effectively guiding PK-12 students in comprehending new information (including 21st-century skills).

Foster Inclusive Classrooms

Develop effective teaching strategies catering to the diverse cultures represented in the classroom. Through studies, educators gain insights into potential cultural conflicts, discover specific teaching approaches for diverse learners, and learn techniques to nurture healthy self-concepts in culturally diverse students.

Leverage Technology for Learning

Master using innovative, free web-based digital resources for various learning environments. Students will learn to design project-based learning opportunities integrating relevant research and best practices, creating readily replicable projects for immediate use in classrooms or professional settings.

Real-World Applications

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program at FHSU equips aspiring educators with the knowledge and skills to thrive in real-world classrooms. This program is offered online and caters to individual students' needs. Beyond traditional coursework, it provides practical experience and research-based methods for improving student achievement.

In addition to coursework like curriculum design, assessment of student learning, and instructional strategies, all master's program graduates are required to complete an undergraduate research project. This applied experience allows educators to develop research-based methods and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program incorporates the latest research-based curriculum, providing educators with the knowledge and skills to customize and develop effective instructional strategies tailored to the diverse needs of their students. This program goes beyond simply providing theoretical knowledge. It equips graduates with practical application skills they can immediately implement in the classroom, leading to measurable improvements in student learning.

Fully online programs empower educators to develop their expertise and integrate the latest advancements in curriculum and instruction into their existing teaching practice, regardless of the specific area of interest, be it early childhood education, secondary education, or anything in between.

Practical Activities

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program is designed for licensed teachers seeking to enhance their professional development and advance their careers. Whether graduates hold a bachelor's degree in elementary or secondary teacher education or another related field, our online master’s programs can help take their teaching experience to the next level.

We focus on action research, allowing educators to develop strategies and assess student learning in their classroom as they explore a critical understanding of instructional best practices. This applied learning approach ensures that the strategy and curriculum resources educators know are relevant and customizable for student's needs.

What You’ll Learn:

Strategies to refine teaching practices
Gain a deeper understanding of instruction
Skills to increase student achievement
Skills for career advancement

How You’ll Learn:

Convenient online courses
Interactive modules
Practical application
Expert support

Courses

The program acknowledges the unique needs and aspirations of each student. Students can choose one approved elective course that aligns with their professional goals in science curriculum development, instructional coordination, or pursuing a leadership role in education.

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program opens doors to various professional development opportunities. Whether seeking to become a curriculum specialist in their school district, pursuing national board certification, or elevating their teaching practice to new heights, this program empowers educators to achieve their educational and career aspirations.

AEP 867: Instructional Design and Assessment

This course is designed to assist prospective educational leaders in developing fundamental knowledge and application of instructional design (ID) models, to design peer review and field test research-based instructional units, and to assist learners in making sense of new information they receive and understand in the context of 21st-century skills.

AEP 859: Curriculum and Evaluation of PK-12 Schools

This course helps future educational leaders gain essential skills in curriculum development and evaluation. Topics include revising or creating system-wide curricula, involving stakeholders, forming committees, reviewing facilities, and managing resources.

TESS 822: The Effective Teacher

This course provides an in-depth analysis of the various factors that contribute to an effective teacher. Students will analyze and evaluate relevant research and national teaching standards to better understand and apply the principles of effecting teaching.

Discover the full Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program at Fort Hays State University is designed for licensed teachers seeking to advance their careers without pursuing additional licensure. While this program doesn't lead to state teaching licensure, it allows for several opportunities in the field of education:

Instructional Coach

Work directly with teachers, providing individualized support, developing professional development programs, and facilitating continuous improvement within schools.

Curriculum Developer

Design and implement effective curriculum materials, ensuring national and state standards alignment. Collaborate with educators to create engaging learning experiences for diverse student populations.

Educational Consultant

Offer expert advice and guidance to school districts, educational organizations, and individual educators on curriculum development, instructional practices, and assessment strategies.

Higher Education Instructor

Share your expertise and passion for education by teaching undergraduate or graduate courses in curriculum and instruction, educational technology, or other fields at universities or colleges.

Admission Requirements

Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program offers a flexible and rigorous path to earning an advanced degree designed for licensed educators seeking to enhance their knowledge, skills, and leadership roles. Here's what applicants need to know about the graduate admissions requirements for this accredited institution program:

Completed Master’s Degree Application

Submit an application through the online portal, ensuring all sections are complete and accurate.

Application Fee

Pay the non-refundable online application fee of $40 for domestic applicants or $50 for international applicants.

Official Transcripts

Request official transcripts from all institutions the applicant has completed coursework. These transcripts will verify the applicant has earned bachelor's degree and GPA requirement of 3.00+ on the last 60 credits.

Personal Statement

In a one-page essay, share professional background, goals, and motivations for pursuing the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher). This statement lets our admissions committee understand the applicant’s unique aspirations and how this program aligns with their professional development journey.

Two Professional Letters of Recommendation

Request letters of recommendation from professors, administrators, or colleagues familiar with the applicant’s teaching practices and potential for success in graduate studies.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Completing your Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program at FHSU opens doors to a world of possibilities within the field of education. Whether currently exploring instruction master’s programs or seeking in-state tuition advantages, we offer additional specialized tracks to help educators tailor their education programs to their passion and goals with these:

FAQ

Do courses taken toward other degrees that were not completed count towards this degree?

The program at FHSU is designed with flexibility, particularly for those who have embarked on other degrees but still need to complete them. Given the program's emphasis on adopting courses that pertain to teaching and meet graduate school requirements, it is highly probable that courses taken toward other unfinished degrees, especially if they are relevant to teaching, can be considered for credit toward the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – The Effective Teacher) program, especially as electives.

Can professional development credits be applied to this degree?

No, professional development credits cannot be applied to this degree. Fort Hays State University only accepts transcripted credits from accredited institutions.

Are the Curriculum and Instruction (C and I) programs flexible in accepting courses from other disciplines as long as they relate to teaching and meet graduate school requirements?

The Curriculum & Instruction programs at FHSU are flexible in accepting courses from other disciplines as long as they are pertinent to teaching and fulfill the graduate school's criteria. This flexibility is central to the program's design, accommodating various educational backgrounds and interests while ensuring the content is relevant to improving educational outcomes.

Is it true that students are drawn to a master's degree program that requires only 30 credits to complete?

Yes, the program's requirement is only 30 credits compared to the more common 36 credits required by similar programs at other institutions. This streamlined approach makes it an attractive option for busy professionals seeking to advance their education without the prolonged time commitment often associated with graduate degrees.

What is Curriculum and Instruction?

Curriculum and Instruction encompass developing, implementing, and assessing educational programs and practices to enhance student learning. This field focuses on designing curricular materials and instructional strategies that meet the diverse needs of students, grounded in contemporary educational research and theory.

What is a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction?

A Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction) is designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of curriculum development, instructional design, and educational assessment. Graduates are equipped to improve classroom practices, lead educational initiatives, and contribute to advancing academic standards and effectiveness.

Is a Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher) worth it?

Pursuing a Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher) is highly beneficial for educators looking to enhance their teaching skills, advance their careers, and increase their impact on student learning. This degree can open doors to leadership positions within educational settings. It enriches the educator's knowledge and instructional practices, improving academic outcomes.

What can I do with a Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction) degree?

Graduates of the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction) programs can pursue various roles beyond traditional classroom teaching, including instructional coordinator, curriculum developer, educational consultant, and higher education instructor. These positions involve designing and implementing academic programs, professional development of teachers, and improvement of instructional practices, all of which contribute to the overall quality of education within schools and districts.

Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs

FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.

AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.

Accreditations

Effective Teacher

Certificate
Masters

Online

The Effective Teacher