Curriculum and Instruction
Explore the career you could build with this skill.
What Is Curriculum and Instruction?
Effective learning starts with thoughtful decisions about what students learn and how educators teach. Curriculum and instruction bring these elements together by focusing on the design, delivery and evaluation of learning experiences that support student needs and educational goals.
Developing curriculum and instruction skills helps educators create engaging lessons, evaluate learning outcomes and adapt teaching strategies based on evidence. These skills also prepare educators to collaborate on curriculum development, support instructional improvement and strengthen learning across classrooms and schools.
Recent Trends in Curriculum and Instruction
As digital tools become more prevalent, educators use data and evidence-based practices to design more flexible and personalized learning experiences. These resources help educators respond to different learning needs while evaluating which instructional approaches best support student success.
Curriculum and instruction trends have also placed greater emphasis on accessibility, student engagement and meaningful technology integration. Educators who strengthen these skills can adapt their teaching practices as learning environments, technologies and student needs evolve.
Curriculum and Instruction Courses
American College of Education (ACE) offers standalone courses that can help you develop your skills in this area.
Curriculum and Instruction Careers
Learn more about the career paths you can pursue with this skill on your resume. Please note that some careers listed may require state licensure, certification or additional qualifications.
Course Stackability
We want our students to get the most out of their hard work. That’s why we design our courses and programs with stackability in mind. Some courses can be applied toward a micro-credential or certificate, which can in turn be applied toward a master’s degree. That master’s degree coursework could then be applied toward a doctorate. Even by taking a single course at ACE, you're taking a smart step toward a larger educational future.
Related Degrees
The courses you take in this skill area can earn you academic credit that you can apply to these ACE degrees.
Course Admissions
For students taking single courses without enrolling in a program, admission requirements will depend on the level of the course. Students must meet ACE’s general admission requirements and be admitted to the college before signing up for a stand-alone class.
Bachelor’s Level
- At least 30 semester credits
- Minimum GPA of 1.75
Master’s Level
- A bachelor’s or highest post-baccalaureate degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.5*
Doctoral Level
- A master’s or doctoral degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
*Applicants whose overall GPA is between 2.0-2.49 may be considered for admission if their degree was conferred more than 10 years from the start date at ACE or the applicant has five or more years of experience in the field appropriate for intended courses.
Curriculum and Instruction FAQs
What do curriculum and instruction courses cover?
Curriculum and instruction courses explore how educators design, deliver and evaluate effective learning experiences. Depending on the course, you may study curriculum development, instructional strategies, assessment, educational research, learning technologies and methods for adapting instruction to meet student needs.
Can I take curriculum and instruction courses online?
Yes. Online curriculum and instruction courses offer a flexible way to strengthen your instructional knowledge while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. You can explore strategies and concepts that apply directly to classrooms, schools and other learning environments.
What are the course requirements for curriculum and instruction?
Course requirements for curriculum and instruction vary based on the course level and institution. At ACE, students who want to take a standalone course must meet the college's general admission requirements, and additional requirements depend on whether the course is offered at the bachelor's, master's or doctoral level.
Who should enroll in education curriculum and instruction courses?
Education curriculum and instruction courses can benefit teachers, instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, school administrators and other professionals who support teaching and learning. They may also appeal to educators who want to strengthen their instructional practices or prepare for greater responsibilities within their schools or districts.
How do curriculum and instruction skills support educators?
Curriculum and instruction skills help educators design meaningful learning experiences, select effective teaching strategies and evaluate student progress. They also strengthen an educator's ability to use data, collaborate with colleagues and adjust instruction to support different students and educational goals.