Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies - M.Ed.
Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies empowers educators to enhance their teaching practices, design innovative curricula, and lead meaningful educational change. Whether you aim to refine your instructional strategies, integrate research-based methods, or prepare for leadership roles, this flexible program provides the tools to advance your career and make a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond.
Explore specialized areas of study, collaborate with experienced faculty, and tailor your degree to align with your professional goals—all from the convenience of an online learning environment designed for working educators.
Master of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies Program Overview
The Master of Education degree in Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies prepares scholars and educational leaders to advance research, theory and practice in diverse learning environments. The program is designed for individuals interested in exploring critical issues related to teaching, learning and curriculum design across educational contexts.
Through rigorous coursework, collaborative inquiry and mentored research experiences, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to academic scholarship and educational innovation. Graduates of the program are well prepared for careers in higher education, research, curriculum development and leadership within schools and educational organizations.
Students may choose to focus broadly in their studies or specialize in one of the program’s focus areas: STEM education; teacher education; curriculum and instruction; or language, literacy and society. Within these areas, students can pursue specific interests, such as social studies within teacher education. Focus area courses are intentionally designed to be flexible and responsive to individual student goals and interests.
The program is offered in two formats: mostly online and fully online. The mostly online format allows students to engage online while also providing opportunities for in-person meetings at multiple points throughout the semester. The fully online format will include some mandatory synchronous online meetings (set times and days) in courses and other graduation requirements.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Apply concepts of major theories, research and issues in teaching, learning and curriculum to enhance classroom and organizational practice.
- Interpret, evaluate and apply educational research to inform decision-making and improve curriculum, instruction and assessment in diverse-learning environments.
- Design and implement equitable and inclusive teaching and assessment practices that meet the needs of diverse learners and communities.
- Effectively communicate educational ideas and solutions through oral, written and visual formats that demonstrate leadership and collaboration in advancing effective teaching and learning practices.
What is a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction?
A master’s in curriculum and instruction is also commonly referred to as a Master’s of Education (MEd). An MEd is a master’s degree that gives you the potential to advance your teaching career through gaining insights into new approaches that inspire students.
Curriculum and instruction is an education field that focuses on curriculum development, educational theory, and student data evaluation. Practitioners – known as instructional coordinators – design, implement, and evaluate instructional materials and programs to ensure they adhere to organizational standards and deliver effective outcomes, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What can I do with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction?
Graduates are prepared for curriculum development, instructional coordination, and educational leadership roles. Potential career paths include curriculum specialist, instructional designer, or education consultant.
Additional possible careers and opportunities include:
- Education teachers, postsecondary
- Instructional coordinators
- Teaching at public, private, parochial, magnet, and charter schools
- Museums or other organizations that offer education programs
- Government organizations specializing in education
- Textbook and curriculum companies
What will I learn in Kent State’s Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction?
Online master’s degree in curriculum and instruction programs teach students how to integrate educational technology into instructional materials and programs. Students are also introduced to curricula for nontraditional students, such as special education learners.
The Curriculum & Instruction (C&I) Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree is a professional development degree that strives to enhance each student’s career aspirations, which are frequently tied to a future employment objective. Professional teaching experience is not necessary to apply. A student works closely with an advisor to address his or her professional development goals.
Graduates of the program will be able to:
- Educate in multicultural settings.
- Function as professional leaders for curriculum reform and renewal.
- Demonstrate the disposition and skills for continuing professional development.
What is the structure of the program?
The program is delivered entirely online, comprising 30 credit hours that can be completed at your own pace. It offers various concentrations, including Curriculum and Teaching Studies, English/Language Arts Education, Mathematics Education, and more.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The duration varies based on individual course load and scheduling. Many students complete the program in less than two years, but you can adjust your pace according to your personal and professional commitments.
Is a teaching license required to enroll?
No, a teaching license is not required for admission. The program is designed for both licensed educators seeking advanced knowledge and individuals interested in curriculum development and instructional design roles.
Does the program lead to teacher licensure?
The program does not lead to initial teacher licensure. However, some coursework may count toward licensure requirements. If you’re interested in both licensure and a master’s degree, you’ll need to apply and be admitted into both the master’s program and the non-degree graduate licensure preparation program.
How does the online format work?
The program is asynchronous, allowing you to access course materials and complete assignments on your schedule. You’ll engage with faculty and peers through online discussions, collaborative projects, and virtual office hours.
What kind of support will I have as an online student?
As a Kent State Online student, you’ll have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, technical support, and career services. Faculty members are also available to provide guidance and support throughout the program.
Program Admissions
Master of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies Program Admissions Requirements
For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website. For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale
- Official transcript(s)
- Goal Statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:1
- Minimum 79 TOEFL iBT score
- Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
- Minimum 58 PTE score
- Minimum 110 DET score
1International applicants who do not meet the above test scores may be considered for conditional admission.
Program Courses
Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| TLCS 60003 | TEACHING AND LEARNING I: THEORY, RESEARCH AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE | 3 |
| TLCS 60004 | TEACHING AND LEARNING II: THEORY, RESEARCH AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE | 3 |
| TLCS 60005 | CURRICULUM THEORIES: RESEARCH, DESIGN AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE | 3 |
| TLCS 67004 | PROFESSIONAL LEARNING IN EDUCATION | 3 |
| TLCS 67010 | CURRICULUM EVALUATION | 3 |
| TLCS 67351 | PERSPECTIVES ON EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH | 3 |
| TLCS 67352 | INSTRUCTIONAL COACHING | 3 |
| Focus Area or Major Electives, choose from the following: 1 | 6 | |
| STEM Education | ||
| TLCS 60191 | VARIABLE CONTENT SEMINAR IN STEM EDUCATION | |
| Teacher Education | ||
| TLCS 60291 | VARIABLE CONTENT SEMINAR IN TEACHER EDUCATION | |
| Language, Literacy and Society | ||
| TLCS 60391 | VARIABLE CONTENT SEMINAR IN LANGUAGE, LITERACY AND SOCIETY | |
| Curriculum and Instruction | ||
| TLCS 60491 | VARIABLE CONTENT SEMINAR IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION | |
| Additional Electives | ||
| TLCS 60169 | UNDERSTANDING EMERGENT BILINGUAL AND IMMIGRANT STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES | |
| TLCS 60171 | TEACHING EMERGENT BILINGUAL AND IMMIGRANT STUDENTS | |
| TLCS 61130 | MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION | |
| TLCS 67002 | CURRICULUM LEADERSHIP | |
| TLCS 67005 | INTERCULTURAL DIMENSIONS OF TEACHING AND LEARNING | |
| TLCS 67353 | TEACHING LITERATURE, GRADES K-12 | |
| Other graduate-level courses, with advisor approval | ||
| Culminating Requirement | ||
| TLCS 67399 | TEACHER AS EDUCATIONAL RESEARCHER | 3 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
1Students are recommended to consult with their academic faculty advisor when selecting their elective courses.
Graduation Requirements
| Minimum Major GPA | Minimum Overall GPA |
|---|---|
| - | 3.000 |
- No more than one-half of a graduate student’s coursework may be taken in 50000-level courses.
- Grades below C are not counted toward completion of requirements for the degree.
Master of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies Tuition and Fees
Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $612.62 | $1,837.86 | $18,300 part-time1 $13,400 full-time2 |
Non-Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $622.62 | $1,867.86 | $18,600 part-time3 $13,700 full-time4 |
1The $612.62 per-credit-hour tuition rate applies to part-time Ohio resident graduate students taking fewer than 11 credit hours per semester.
2The flat-rate semester fee of $6,724.36 applies to full-time Ohio resident graduate students taking between 11-18 credit hours per semester. This amount is calculated at students completing the program in 2 semesters.
3The $622.62 per-credit-hour tuition rate applies to part-time non-Ohio resident graduate students enrolled in a fully online degree program and taking fewer than 11 credit hours per semester, PLUS a surcharge of $10 per credit hour.
4The flat-rate semester fee of $6,724.36 applies to full-time non-Ohio resident graduate students enrolled in a fully online degree program and taking between 11-18 credit hours, PLUS a surcharge of $10 per credit hour of actual credits taken each semester (between 11-18 semester credits or $110-$180). This program is calculated at students taking 2 (15 credit) semesters plus the surcharge ($150 x 2).
- An additional Distance Learning fee for all students enrolled in a distance learning course is $15 per credit hour. Program tuition and costs are estimated and subject to change.
- Actual tuition costs will vary based on a student’s chosen academic plan. The full cost of attendance consists of tuition and fees, and when applicable, food, housing, books, course materials, supplies and equipment, transportation and personal expenses for the enrolled terms. Other expenses not included in tuition and fees totals can be found on the Kent State University cost of attendance web page.
- For a complete listing of tuition rates for approved online programs, please contact Kent State’s Financial, Billing & Enrollment Center at 330-672-6000 or via our website Contact Us link.
Careers
- 2.1% slower than the average
- 74,900 number of jobs
- $72,090 potential earnings
- 1.3% slower than the average
- 232,600 number of jobs
- $74,720 potential earnings
Notice: Career Information Source
* Source of occupation titles and labor data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Data comprises projected percent change in employment over the next 10 years; nation-wide employment numbers; and the yearly median wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.
Related Reading from the Kent State Online Blog
