Master's in Curriculum and Instruction
Shape Educational Worlds Through Curriculum
Our Master's in Curriculum & Instruction prepares working professionals to shape curriculum—its theory, design, evaluation, and leadership—across schools, universities, and community-based educational settings. Coursework addresses equitable curriculum development, instructional practice across diverse settings, the social and cultural dimensions of teaching and learning, and practitioner research into one's own teaching. Integrating the Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation, and Development into your course of study, the program offers a focused and sustained engagement with curriculum as a fundamental dimension of pedagogical practice, extending your expertise through scholarly inquiry in your area of interest.
Located in Washington, DC, the program situates your studies amid a rich landscape of schools, national museums, cultural institutions and diverse community-based educational work.
Individualize your degree through coursework selected in consultation with your faculty advisor, aligning your studies with your professional goals and the educational work ahead of you.
The program's interdisciplinary structure pairs the MA with the 12-credit Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation, and Development; students then select 15 elective credits from offerings across the school in consultation with a faculty advisor, extending their studies of curriculum and instruction into allied fields of education.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
In Washington, D.C.—a city rich with museums, arts and humanities institutions, and science centers—students may earn course credit through internships they arrange around their background and career interests.
Earn a Master's + Certificate
Students graduate with both the MA and the Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation, and Development—focused preparation in curriculum theory, evaluation, and project management woven directly into their degree.
Convenient Schedule
Courses are scheduled to accommodate working professionals and for internship experiences.
The GW Advantage
The curriculum and pedagogical tools used in our schools are the foundation for educational and societal transformation. Where better to study and prepare to influence this transformation than in our nation's capital and the policymaking capital of the world? GSEHD students benefit from the University’s extraordinary access to leading national archives and libraries, urban and suburban public, charter, and private schools, and major science, arts, humanities, and performance centers.
Degree Awarded:
Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in the Field of Curriculum and Instruction
Department:
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Course Delivery:
Foggy Bottom Campus
Program Entry:
Fall
- Our Mission
The program prepares educators, specialists, and researchers through interdisciplinary, research-based programs. Graduates become:
- Scholars in curriculum and pedagogy
- Advocates for Social Justice and Diversity
- Educators who integrate theory with practice in schools, universities, and community-based educational settings
- Dedicated leaders who strive to affect positive change in schools and out-of-school settings
- Curriculum Requirements
The following requirements must be fulfilled: 30 credits, including 9 credits in core courses, 6 additional credits in certificate courses, and 15 credits in courses selected with the advisor. Students must also complete the master of arts in education and human development comprehensive exam.
Code Title Required Courses CPED 6305 Foundations of Curriculum Theory CPED 6339 Teachers as Researchers CPED 6608 Development and Diversity CPED 6801 Curriculum Evaluation CPED 6802 Curriculum Project Management Elective Courses 15 additional credits selected in consultation with the advisor Comprehensive Examination Successful completion of the master of arts in education and human development comprehensive exam is required. - Program Outcomes
- Curriculum is tailored to our students’ career goals.
- Students gain leadership skills for in and outside of schools in various educational and research settings.
- Students earn a master's degree PLUS the Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation, and Development.
- Students acquire expertise in advanced, interdisciplinary curriculum and instruction design and development.
Apply Now
GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at teachinfo
gwu [dot] edu (teachinfo[at]gwu[dot]edu) or 202-994-9283.
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.
- Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
- Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants.
Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2027. We encourage you to apply as early as possible.
| Application Timeline | Fall |
|---|---|
| Priority Deadline | Nov 2 |
| Round 1 Deadline | Dec 1 |
| Round 2 Deadline | Jan 15 |
| Round 3 Deadline | March 1 |
| Round 4 Deadline | May 1 |
| Round 5 Deadline | June 15 |
| Program Deadline | Aug 2 |
For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at teachinfogwu [dot] edu (teachinfo[at]gwu[dot]edu) or 202-994-9283.
Tuition & Financial Aid
We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.
Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.
The tuition rate* for the Master's in Curriculum and Instruction program is $2,000 per credit hour.
This program requires 30 credits.
Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.
*Summer 2026, Fall 2026 and Spring 2027
Scholarships are available to eligible admitted students. Review eligibility requirements and learn more about funding your education >
GSEHD’s Curriculum and Instruction program has a unique curriculum design which prepare teachers to work with diverse programs and cultures. GW has a strong connection with prestigious schools in the DMV area, which provides greater opportunities to network and complete practicums. I believe this program will help me achieve my goals, particularly through the guidance and expertise of the faculty and the hands-on experience I've received.
MAEVE CHEN (Current Student)
Career Outlook
Graduates of this program have become leaders in and outside school settings in various educational settings, including non-profit and for profit organizations. Graduates have also become research experts, curriculum developers, and content area leaders working in schools, universities, and community-based educational settings. The program also offers pathways for advanced doctoral study in the arts, humanities, and STEM.
- Curriculum and Instruction Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program have become:
- Leaders in and outside school settings
- Curriculum Developers
- University Instructors
- Doctoral Students
- Leaders in reading, literacy, TESOL , Arts, Humanities, and STEM projects in and outside of schools
Associate Professor, Curriculum and Pedagogy; Co-Director, GWTeach
Associate Professor, Curriculum and Pedagogy