Online Doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction
Why Pursue a Doctoral Degree in Curriculum and Instruction?
Specialists in curriculum and instruction work to design lesson plans, instruct students, and measure learning outcomes. They work at the K-12 level and in higher education, contributing their skills to improve learning. Professionals work as classroom educators and in high-level curriculum design for schools or districts. A curriculum and instruction degree also qualifies graduates for administrative positions overseeing the implementation of curriculum plans.
Teachers with a doctorate earn higher salaries than those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and the degree also qualifies educators for administrative positions as directors, principals, and superintendents.
At the top levels, many positions require a doctor of education in curriculum and instruction degree. Teachers with a doctorate earn higher salaries than those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and the degree also qualifies educators for administrative positions as directors, principals, and superintendents. Additionally, curriculum and instruction graduates can work as instructional coordinators and curriculum specialists. Finally, with a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction, graduates can work as college professors and researchers as well as train future teachers.
Featured Online Programs
Many educators benefit from the flexibility of an Ed.D. or Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online program. The degree requires several years of coursework and a dissertation, and doctoral students may continue working while completing the degree. The advanced coursework prepares educators for many career paths that require leadership and planning skills, and a Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online degree may appeal to professional educators seeking career advancement and higher salaries.
Types of Curriculum and Instruction Degrees
Curriculum and instruction doctoral students choose between a doctorate of philosophy (Ph.D.) or a doctorate in education (Ed.D.). Both degrees take between three and five years and require approximately 60 credits in coursework in addition to a thesis or dissertation. However, the Ph.D. primarily trains scholars and researchers pursuing careers in higher education, while the Ed.D. is a practitioner degree aimed at principals, curriculum specialists, and superintendents.
In addition to a Ph.D. and Ed.D., students can also earn an education specialist degree (Ed.S.). Typically, an Ed.S. does not require a dissertation or thesis, and graduate students focus on areas such as special education. Ed.S. graduates take positions as principals and other administrative roles. Because Ed.S. students do not write a dissertation, the program is shorter than a Ph.D. or Ed.D., and it requires less research. Educators may also benefit from an online Ed.D. curriculum and instruction program or other online doctorates in education.
While there are several similarities between an Ed.D., a Ph.D., and an Ed.S., the degrees lead to different career paths. Because of that, prospective students need to carefully consider what degree best fits their career goals.
Choosing an Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Program
At the doctoral level, graduate students specialize in an area of curriculum and instruction and perform research while gaining valuable advanced-level skills. It’s important to find the program that best fits the student’s interests and career goals. When researching Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online programs, prospective students need to consider several key factors, such as the length of time to degree, the cost, the specializations, and graduation requirements.
When researching Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online programs, prospective students need to consider several key factors, such as the length of time to degree, the cost, the specializations, and graduation requirements.
Cost varies widely in doctoral programs. Students may benefit from in-state tuition discounts at public institutions. Many universities also provide tuition discounts for online students, which lowers the cost of a doctorate. Programs may also provide tuition incentives, grants, and scholarships. Additionally, students can pursue public and private financial aid. While most online Ed.D. curriculum and instruction programs require three to four years, some may offer accelerated or part-time options. Practicums and student teaching requirements may also add time to a degree.
A program’s curriculum also helps students choose the best fit. Some programs offer specializations that prepare graduates for careers in higher education, administration, or program management. By finding a program that offers coursework in the appropriate concentration, students are better prepared for the job market. Prospective students also need to consider the program’s accreditation status. Graduates from accredited programs qualify for teaching licenses and certifications, and only students at accredited institutions can receive federal financial aid.
Finally, many students benefit from a fully online program with no on-campus requirements. Others may prefer a hybrid program, where students take a mix of online and in-person courses. Some programs offer both online and hybrid options.
Entry Requirements
Each Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online program sets its own admission requirements. When researching potential programs, candidates need to look closely at the entry requirements to ensure they meet the program’s standards. Students who do not have the required education, for example, cannot enroll in a doctorate program.
In general, most programs expect incoming students to have a master’s degree in a closely related field, such as a master’s in curriculum and instruction. Candidates submit transcripts showing their coursework and grades. Many programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA in previous degrees, but some programs admit students with lower GPAs on a provisional basis.
In addition to educational requirements, many Ph.D. curriculum and instruction programs require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or MAT. Programs may also accept teacher examinations such as the Praxis or national boards. Additionally, the admission process may require teaching experience, letters of recommendation from academic and professional references, and a statement of purpose outlining the candidate’s goals in earning a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction online. Some online Ed.D. curriculum and instruction programs set a minimum number of years of teaching experience, and they may require that applicants hold a valid teaching license.
Directory of Accredited Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Programs
Curriculum and Instruction Licensure and Certifications
Each state sets its own teacher licensure requirements and guidelines. In order to hold certain positions, especially K-12 teaching jobs, curriculum and instruction specialists may need a teaching license. In most states, teachers must hold a bachelor’s degree in teaching from an accredited educator preparation program. After completing the bachelor’s program, which includes student teaching experience, teachers apply for a license through the appropriate state board or agency. The licensure process requires passing scores on teacher skills and content area examinations. Most teachers must also pass a background check.
In order to hold certain positions, especially K-12 teaching jobs, curriculum and instruction specialists may need a teaching license
Teaching licenses do not automatically transfer across state lines, but many states provide limited reciprocity for states with similar requirements. For example, a licensed teacher may easily acquire a new license after relocating because they already fulfilled their new state’s requirements. However, some teachers may need to meet additional training requirements or demonstrate teaching effectiveness.
Doctors of education in curriculum and instruction may meet the educational requirements for a teaching license, depending on the program. Prospective students considering a teaching career after completing a Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online degree need to check with their program. Graduates considering careers in higher education or administration may not need a teaching license. However, some superintendent and principal positions require a state administrative license. Students need to check the requirements of their state.
In addition to teaching licenses, many curriculum and instruction professionals benefit from certifications. Completing a certification, which may require an examination, demonstrates the professional’s advanced skills in their field.
What Can You Do with a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction?
Doctors of education in curriculum and instruction work in many rewarding and lucrative fields. At the doctoral level, students specialize their skills, emphasizing curriculum leadership and academic skills. Graduates pursuing careers in higher education qualify for academic dean positions and higher administration such as vice provost positions. Specialists in curriculum and instruction also work as consultants, helping schools and students make the most of their academic opportunities. Some positions may require a teaching license; doctoral students can research the teaching requirements by state.
What is a C&I Specialist?
A doctor of education in curriculum and instruction pursues career paths in K-12 education and higher education. They may focus on student services as a technology coordinator or educational consultant, or they may work in administration as an academic dean or a vice provost. A Ph.D. curriculum and instruction degree also qualifies high school teachers for higher salaries.
Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction
Before becoming a doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, prospective students must pay for their degree. Some students pay for tuition out-of-pocket each semester, but many use a combination of loans, scholarships, and fellowships to cover the cost of a Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online degree. In most cases, students must pay tuition upfront, before classes start, and the college or university financial aid office handles disbursements from loans, scholarships, or fellowships. By researching financial aid, students can focus on their doctorate without worrying about paying for it.
Scholarships for Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Degrees
Resources for Online Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Students
- National Education Association (NEA) The largest professional organization in the country for educators, NEA has over three million members. The organization provides professional development support, job resources, and networking opportunities.
- Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Founded in 1943, ASCD advocates for strong curricula and supports education professionals. Members receive publications and newsletters, webinars and professional development resources, and access to the annual conference.
- American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Professionals in curriculum and instruction who are interested in administration can join AASA. Members receive certification, continuing education programs, and professional development support.
- U.S. Department of Education State Contacts The U.S. Department of Education offers a list of local resources on its state contacts page, including state departments of education, local higher education agencies, and other resources for educators.
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) As an independent, nonprofit accrediting agency, CAEP assesses educator programs to improve academic standards. Before enrolling in a Ph.D. curriculum and instruction online program, students can check its accreditation status with CAEP.
