Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Program Guide

Building a curriculum is a complex task. It involves strategic decision-making and a deep understanding of how different age groups learn and retain information.

Students in online doctorate in curriculum and instruction programs learn the educational theory, cultural competency, and learning measurement techniques needed to develop comprehensive curricula for diverse student bodies. The degree provides insight into subjects, such as psychology, child development, ethics, and law.

Graduates can secure high-level positions in a growing field. Between 2019 and 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 6% job growth for instructional coordinators and 9% job growth for postsecondary teachers.

Should I Get a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction?

A doctorate in curriculum and instruction provides students with an in-depth understanding of educational theory and how it applies to the classroom. Coursework teaches students to interpret data, integrate new technologies into their curricula, and conduct research in the field.

Most doctoral programs in curriculum and instruction take 3-5 years to complete. Students can pursue a Ph.D. or a doctor of education (Ed.D.) degree. Ph.D. graduates can pursue careers in academia as professors and researchers, while Ed.D. graduates can become instructional coordinators and school leaders.

Online doctorate in education programs often allow busy professionals to work full time while still attending classes asynchronously.

What Can I Expect from a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Program?

There are two types of doctorate in curriculum and instruction programs: an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.

While these two degrees share many similarities, they prepare students for different careers in education. Graduates of Ed.D. programs typically go on to work as principals, superintendents, and curriculum designers. Ph.D. graduates often work in academia, teaching courses and performing research.

Both programs cover educational theory, student learning assessment strategies, cultural competency, advanced research methods, and instructional technology. Coursework allows students to build expertise in areas like student evaluation, educational statistics, and learning measurement. Programs may also allow degree-seekers to specialize their studies in a particular area of the field by choosing a concentration.

Concentrations

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How should I Choose a Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral Program

Before applying to any doctoral program, evaluate factors like cost, location, program design, and course and concentration offerings.

You must also decide whether you want to enroll full or part time. Working professionals often find it easier to balance their work responsibilities with part-time studies, and online programs often offer even more scheduling flexibility through asynchronous coursework.

Students must decide whether a Ph.D. or Ed.D. program best suits their career goals and evaluate their financial needs and the cost of individual programs. While many schools offer assistantships to doctoral students to help cut out-of-pocket expenses, it's critical to determine the tuition rates at each school on your shortlist.

Programmatic Accreditation for Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Programs

Programmatic accreditation is an important factor to consider when seeking a doctorate in curriculum and construction. Programs that participate in this accreditation process demonstrate their commitment to maintaining academic quality in education.

Doctoral programs in curriculum and instruction receive accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The council evaluates teacher preparation programs to ensure they provide the most up-to-date and highest quality curricula available.

Featured Doctorate in Curriculum Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Find the top online doctorate in curriculum and instruction programs.

How to Get Into a Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral Program

While each program is unique, most doctorate in curriculum and instruction programs maintain similar admission requirements. Most programs require a minimum of two years of teaching experience, a master's degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher, competitive GRE scores, a current resume, and letters of recommendation. Some programs require an interview.

Most school websites list program requirements and contact information for the admissions department.

Read Our Guide to Graduate Admissions.

What Can I Do With a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction?

Earning a doctorate in curriculum and instruction can open the door to careers in educational administration, curriculum design, postsecondary teaching, academic research, and school leadership. Graduates can find work in K-12 schools, postsecondary institutions, school districts, and the government.

Popular Career Paths

• K-12 Principal: K-12 principals manage their school's daily operations, school budget, and disciplinary matters. They also set school performance goals, supervise teachers and other administrators, and evaluate student performance to make improvements.
• Postsecondary Teacher: Postsecondary teachers work with students past the high school level at community colleges and four-year universities. Professors with a doctorate in curriculum and instruction teach education courses and perform research in the field.
• Instructional Coordinator: These professionals design and implement school curricula and train teachers and administrators to meet quality education standards. Instructional coordinators also evaluate the effectiveness of curricula, measure student learning, and suggest improvements to teaching methods.
• School Superintendent: School superintendents supervise and manage daily operations of their school while ensuring that administrators meet standards set by the school board. These professionals ensure that their district follows laws and regulations while continuously analyzing and making improvements to the curriculum.
• Postsecondary Administrator: Postsecondary administrators supervise student activities and help address issues facing students at their institution. They may assist students with registering for classes, meeting graduation requirements, and applying to graduate programs.

How Much Money Can I Make With a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction?

Since a doctorate in curriculum and instruction programs is the terminal degree, graduates can pursue the most lucrative and advanced careers in the field. According to the BLS, instructional coordinators earn a median salary of $66,970, postsecondary teachers make a median annual salary of $80,790, and school principals earn $98,490 per year.

Certifications and Licenses a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Prepares For

• School Administrator: Requirements for school administrator licensure vary by state. Most states require a certain level of educational leadership experience to qualify. Professionals pursuing administrator licensure may also need to pass an exam.
• Teaching Licensure: While most graduates with a doctorate in curriculum and instruction pursue school leadership roles as instructional coordinators and principals, some degree-holders may not want to leave the classroom. Teachers with doctorates qualify for the highest salaries within their district. Most states require completion of an approved education preparation program and an exam for licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Programs

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