Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction

Goal of MSCI

The goal of the Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (MSCI) is to facilitate professional growth while preparing graduate candidates for leadership in roles beyond the classroom. Students expand their understanding of research and research-based practices while developing pedagogical content knowledge in the following areas of emphasis: Early Childhood Education; Early Childhood Special Education; K-12 Library Media; K-12 Mathematics Education; K-12 Special Education; and K-12 Technology Integrationist, Mathematics, and Education Studies. Students take graduate work directly into their classrooms and into leadership experiences to better connect theory to practice. The College of Education oversees the Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction. 

State and National Standards

Courses in each of the areas of emphasis align with state standards and national standards of the designated professional association (National Association of the Education of Young Children, American Library Association School Standards, National Council for Teachers of Mathematics, Council for Exceptional Children, and the International Society for Technology in Education). Core courses are guided by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

Program Design

The MSCI uses a cohort structure that establishes a core of learning relationships and develops faculty and student collaboration. Students move through the MSCI together in a sequence of courses leading to the 35-credit degree. All coursework is completed online, with two exceptions: 1) Required practicum courses involving clinical practice experiences arranged for studnets in their home locations; and 2) Courses within the MSCI K-12 Mathematics Education program are online except for some intensive-study math courses which are offered during the summer only.