online masters in curriculum and instruction

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In this article, we profile the 30 most affordable online master’s in curriculum and instruction degree programs.

As educators take on more duties in schools and the industry becomes more tech-heavy, a master’s in curriculum and instruction is a valuable asset. But teachers and educators do not always have time to step away from their current career to attend graduate school. Thankfully, online master’s in curriculum and instruction degree programs have popped up at some of the nation’s top ranked and affordable institutions.

We reviewed 181 colleges and universities with online master’s in curriculum and instruction degree programs that cost under $15,000 per year. We started with a large pool of schools and narrowed our search by confirming accreditation and collecting the graduate tuition and fees. We gathered only regional or national accredited colleges or universities and collected tuition costs from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator). All schools offered online master’s in curriculum and instruction or closely related degree programs. Also, as an added indicator, we looked at programs and schools that had received rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The schools on our list are ranked in order of raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in curriculum and instruction degree programs.

#30 – Averett University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Danville, Virginia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,620

Averett University offers a M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online degree program designed for certified Virginia teachers who want to complete a fast-paced graduate degree. The program may be completed in 17 months and consists of 31 credits. Courses are delivered fully online and run in six-week blocks to allow for intense study of each concept. Some of the courses include curriculum development and design, digitally mediated instruction, and meeting the needs of exceptional learners. Applicants must have official transcripts from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits completed. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission. Averett is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 17th best regional college in the South and the 9th best value school.

#29 – Florida State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Tallahassee, Florida

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,543

Florida State University’s online master’s in curriculum and instruction program is designed as a two-year, part-time accelerated degree. The program is open to beginning and experienced teachers and other educators who are committed to becoming teacher-leaders in their community. This 33-credit program includes courses like adaptations and accommodations for learners with disabilities, analyzing and refining teaching, culturally responsive teaching, and using assessments for differentiating instruction. Florida State University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 81st best national university and 98th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #13 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#28 – Kennesaw State University

Online Master’s in Special Education – General Curriculum

Kennesaw, Georgia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,474

Kennesaw State University’s master’s in curriculum and instruction online degree program focuses on the challenges and creation of general curriculum used in special education. This completely online degree program takes 18-24 months to complete and has been approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. It is fully accredited by the national Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and can be completed entirely online. Courses include assessment for diverse learners, data-based inquiry, instructional approaches, and positive behavior intervention supports. Kennesaw is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #219 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#27 – Florida International University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Miami, Florida

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,097

One of the more affordable online education programs on our list is the online master’s in curriculum and instruction from Florida International University. This 36-credit program is fully online and can be completed in just 12 months. Students take a series of courses followed by a culminating project known as the action research project (ARP). Most courses run eight weeks in length and include curriculum development, foundations of educational research, learning styles applications, politics of curriculum, and professional conference exhibition. Florida International University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution and public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #46 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#26 – Claflin University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Orangeburg, South Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,024

Claflin University’s online master’s in curriculum and instruction is designed for certified classroom teachers and professional educators with bachelor’s degrees in education. The program is offered in an asynchronous online format that runs year-round. A total of 36 credits are required, and all courses are taught by Claflin instructors. These courses include educational research methods, introduction to educational research, reading and writing across the curriculum, teaching and learning, and working with diverse learners. Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s from an accredited institution, professional licensure, and two letters of recommendation. Claflin is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national liberal arts college.

#25 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Marion, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,937

Indiana Wesleyan University offers a master’s in curriculum and instruction online degree program designed for working educators and practicing classroom teachers. The program consists of 33 credits and is aligned with the National Education Association’s Teacher Leader Model standards. All courses are taught by Indiana Wesleyan professors and delivered in an online format. Some of the required courses include curriculum leadership for rigor and relevance, diagnostic assessment for learning, leading for differentiated instruction, leading an inquiry-based and student-engaging classroom, and the culturally competent teacher leaders. Indiana Wesleyan is ranked and accredited. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 29th best regional university in the Midwest and the 64th best value school.

#24 – Kansas State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Manhattan, Kansas

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,532

Kansas State University’s online education programs include the online master’s in curriculum and instruction. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is one of the most affordable offerings on our list. Specialty classes in areas of interest allow students to tailor their degree to fit with their career goals in areas like educational technology, learning skills and school improvement, and reading specialist. To be admitted to the program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA in the final two years of study. Transcripts, resume, and academic references are also required. Kansas State University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 145th best national university and 129th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #43 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#23 – Concordia University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Mequon, Wisconsin

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,290

Concordia University offers an accredited online master’s in curriculum and instruction degree that is crafted for teachers who want to earn advanced knowledge in curriculum, instruction, and design. This 31-credit hour program is fully online and offers courses taught by either practitioners or doctoral-level professors. Some of the required courses include cultural issues in curriculum and classroom, instructional technology and the reflective educators, standards based curriculum and instruction, teaching diverse learners, and portfolio development. The program is also NCATE accredited and follows the Interstate Teachers Assessment and Support Consortium and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Concordia is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 51st best regional university in the Midwest.

#22 – Freed-Hardeman University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Henderson, Tennessee

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,260

The curriculum and instruction master’s online degree program from Freed-Hardeman University is an online program intended for educators seeking advanced degrees without initial add-on licensure. The program consists of 36 credit hours with 18 hours covering core curriculum and approximately 12 elective hours. Courses are delivered online and include computer applications in education, developmental psychology, foundations of curriculum, instructional theory and design, and research methods (web conferencing). A thesis research and planning course as well as the completion and defense of a thesis are required. Freed-Hardeman is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 46th best regional university in the South and the 17th best value school.

#21 – Iowa State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instructional Technology

Ames, Iowa

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,549

Iowa State University offers an M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online degree program designed for full-time classroom teachers. This completely online 30-credit program includes research, application, and leadership acumen in educational technology. Courses are delivered online and cover topics like designing effective learning environments, foundations of digital learning, multicultural foundations of school and society, principles and practices of flexible and distance learning, and technology diffusion and leadership change. Successful applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Iowa State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 115th best national university and 82nd best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #141 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#20 – Bowling Green State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Teaching

Bowling Green, Ohio

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,397

One of the most affordable master’s in curriculum and instruction online degree programs on our list is the Master of Education in Curriculum and Teaching from Bowling Green State University. The program offers six start dates each year, eight-week online classes, and the choice of endorsement, certificate, or other tailored elective program. Core classes include advanced pedagogy and best practices, curriculum inquiry, curriculum issues and trends, qualitative approaches to classroom inquiry, and using assessment and research to improve practice. Applicants for admission must provide official transcripts and GRE or other test scores acquired within the last five years. Bowling Green is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #88 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#19 – Buena Vista University

Online Master’s in Teacher Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction

Storm Lake, Iowa

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,126

Buena Vista University offers online education programs including the master’s in curriculum and instruction. This 100% online degree is designed for working teachers seeking to advance their career in the classroom. There are three emphasis areas that help students tailor their degree toward interests. These emphasis areas include effective teaching and instructional leadership, talented and gifted education, and teaching English as a second language. Courses are delivered online and include intro to graduate study and research, leadership in changing society and culture, and learning and motivation. Buena Vista is accredited, ranked, and highly affordable. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 24th best regional college in the Midwest and the 15th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #224-#291 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#18 – Ball State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Education Technology

Muncie, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,048

Ball State University offers a curriculum and instruction master’s online degree program that is designed for K-12 educators. The program also offers two specialization tracks in curriculum and educational technology. All courses are delivered online and include curriculum integration of learning technology, evaluation of educational programs, research on the impact of student learning, and the elementary and secondary school curriculum. Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s from an accredited institution and a complete application. Ball State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 187th best national university and 99th top public school in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #36 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#17 – Florida Gulf Coast University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction – Educational Technology

Fort Myers, Florida

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,961

The M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online program is designed to provide advanced study in education and training for K-12 educators. Admission to the program does not require the GRE or MAT, but the applicant’s GPA must be 3.0 or better. Courses are delivered online and are taught by university instructors. Some of the required courses include digital narrative and cognition, instructional resources – media, interactive learning environments, program evaluation, still and time based media, and web development. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution as the 73rd best regional university in the South and the 27th top public school.

#16 – Carson-Newman University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Jefferson City, Tennessee

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,780

Carson-Newman University’s curriculum and instruction master’s online degree program is designed for experienced teachers with a desire to strengthen their skills in the classroom to take on leadership roles in their school. Online and blended formats are available. The online program requires online discussions and group activities associated with each course. Some of the courses offered include educational research, foundations of leadership, integrating research and learning, language and culture, and techniques for inclusion. The school is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 66th best regional university in the South and the 26th best value institution.

#15 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Lynchburg, Virginia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,430

Liberty University offers a master’s in curriculum and instruction online degree program that is both 100% online and accredited under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Standards. The program is open to educators looking to gain leadership roles in Christian, private, and public school systems. All classes are delivered online and include foundations of educational technology and online learning, leadership in educational technology, technology and diversity, and technology practices for instructional improvement. There is also an optional concentration in school counseling, which requires an additional 12 credits. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Liberty as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #190 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#14 – Black Hills State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Spearfish, South Dakota

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,956

Black Hills State University’s online master’s in curriculum and instruction program at Black Hills State University is designed for practicing teachers who want to expand their understanding of research and research-based practices. The program offers several emphasis areas that allow students to tailor their degree to meet specific career goals. These emphasis areas include K-12 library media, K-12 math specialist, early childhood education, and early childhood special education. Core classes are delivered online and explore topics like applying learning theory to instructional design, cultural and linguistic diversity in schools, and curriculum development and instruction. The university is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #131 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#13 – Emporia State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Emporia, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,806

Emporia State University’s online education programs include the online master’s in curriculum and instruction. This accredited graduate program is open to working educators who want to earn an advanced degree in area like curriculum leadership. While the program is not completely online, the school does offer an instructional design and technology master’s that can be completed 100% online. Courses are taught by Emporia State professors, and the program offers non-thesis and thesis completion options. Some of the online courses include contemporary issues in distance education, learning theories in instructional design technology, and multimedia design. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 2.75 or better, two current recommendations, and a formal writing sample. U.S. News and World Report ranks Emporia as a top regional university in the Midwest and top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #99 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#12 – Gardner-Webb University

Online Master’s in Teacher Leadership in Curriculum and Instruction

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,772

Gardner-Webb University’s M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online program is designed for current school teachers who want to enhance their leadership skills and career opportunities. This five-semester online graduate degree embraces Gardner-Webb’s Christian values and covers topics common to the field of education. Classes are delivered online and include current issues and special topics for teacher leaders, leading differentiation strategies for diverse populations, and teaching and leading literacy instruction. Admission requirements include an undergraduate teaching or education degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and satisfactory scores on the GRE, MAT, or PRAXIS II. The institution is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#11 – Appalachian State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum Specialist

Boone, North Carolina

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,721

The master’s in curriculum and instruction online program at Appalachian State University is a 39-credit hour program that can be completed on a part-time basis, making it ideal for working educators. Coursework is delivered in two formats: Synchronous or asynchronous. All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have a valid North Carolina “A” level teaching license or equivalent from another state. GRE or MAT test scores are required for admission. Appalachian State is a top ranked and accredited university. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 9th best regional university in the South. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #36 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#10 – Greenville University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Greenville, Illinois

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,524

Greenville University’s online education programs include the online master’s in curriculum and instruction. This program is completely online and takes approximately 24 months to finish. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts, and a written statement of educational philosophy. Courses are delivered online and include assessment for learning, curricular design, equity in school and society, literacy for today’s society, management change in education, managing learning technologies, and trends and issues in education. Greenville is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 99th best regional university in the Midwest, and its online graduate education programs rank #214 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#9 – Louisiana State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Shreveport, Louisiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,334

Louisiana State University’s curriculum and instruction master’s online degree program requires 12 courses that can be taken in as little as 24 months. This 35-credit online degree is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP), previously known as the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Courses are taught by LSU’s experienced professors and include topics like creating a professional learning community, educational technology applied to the classroom, foundations of educational research, leading instruction, learning and education, and utilizing data for school improvement. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #224-#291 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#8 – Indiana State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Terre Haute, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,328

The online master’s in curriculum and instruction program at Indiana State University is designed for individuals who wish to gain leadership skills in instruction and curriculum planning within educational settings. This 33-credit hour program is fully online and can be completed in just 18 months when attending full-time. Classes are taught by university professors and include a series of professional education foundation courses and classes that emphasize curriculum and instruction. A culminating action research project is also required. Some of the courses offered include development through the lifespan, diversity and disability in today’s schools, learning theory and instructional strategies, and supervision of instruction. Indiana State University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #224-#291 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#7 – Western Governors University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Salt Lake City, Utah

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790

Western Governors University offers a master’s in curriculum and instruction online program that is designed to provide focus, depth, and knowledge for current educators looking to bolster their career opportunities. You do not need a teaching license to enroll in this program, but students should have experience in education. Courses are delivered online and are taught by Western Governors University professors. These courses include curriculum design, curriculum evaluation, introduction to curriculum theory, learning theories, research design and analysis, and research questions and literature review. WGU Teachers College was the first exclusively online university to receive accreditation for its degree programs that lead to licensure from the NCATE, now CAEP.

#6 – Florida Atlantic University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Boca Raton, Florida

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,657

The M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online program at Florida Atlantic University offers a fully online graduate degree designed for experienced educators. This 36-credit hour program explores issues and challenges of curriculum, instruction, and assessment that impact educators at every level of schooling. All courses are delivered online and include action research in schools and communities, design components of curriculum, program evaluation in curriculum and instruction, and U.S. curricular trends and issues. Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited college or university and access to a community of at least 15 people of any age (pre-K through adult learners). The institution is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #83 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#5 – Angelo State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

San Angelo, Texas

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,395

Angelo State University’s online education programs include the master’s in curriculum and instruction. The graduate level degree may be completed entirely online and is designed to assist professional educators in the development and strategy of improving educational programs through curriculum and instruction. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or better but does not require the GRE. Courses are delivered 100% online and include applied research, content area instruction, curriculum development, legal and ethical principles, lifespan development, social and cultural influences, and tests and measurements. Angelo State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #115 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#4 – Arkansas State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Jonesboro, Arkansas

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,918

Arkansas State University’s curriculum and instruction master’s online program is designed for working educators looking to enhance their leadership skills and enrich their instructional practices. This fast-paced online program can be completed in just 20 months. Courses are taught by university professors and delivered entirely online. These courses include curriculum management, ethical leadership, introduction to statistics and research, philosophies of education, school and community relations, school law, and supervision and evaluation of teaching. Students may also tailor their degree with an emphasis in elementary, middle school, or secondary school curriculum. Arkansas State is accredited and ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 68th best regional university in the South and 25th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #180 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#3 – American College of Education

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Indianapolis, Indiana

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,840

American College of Education offers an accredited online master’s in curriculum and instruction designed for P-12 educators who want to earn an advanced degree infused with instructional technology. The program is entirely online and consists of a series of classes that emphasize application and research. These courses include assessment strategies, creating safe and supportive classrooms, curriculum and instructional design and diversity, research methods, standards-driven learning, and student engagement. The program and school are accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC) through May 2020.

#2 – Armstrong State University

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Savannah, Georgia

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,272

Armstrong State University offers an M.Ed in curriculum and instruction online degree program designed for teachers who wish to become curriculum leaders within their school and community. A total of 33 credit hours, including six electives in a specialized discipline area, are required. All courses are delivered online and include advanced instruction for diverse learners, advanced theories of curriculum and instruction, change processes for curriculum improvement, educational assessment for instructional improvement, educational psychology and learning theory, educational research, and program evaluation for curriculum improvement. Candidates seeking the master’s degree must also engage in a 20-hour field experience working alongside a curriculum specialist or instructional leader. Armstrong State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South and offers one of the most affordable programs on our list.

#1 – Chadron State College

Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Chadron, Nebraska

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Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,803

The curriculum and instruction master’s online degree program at Chadron State University is open to students with a baccalaureate degree in education or those who have completed an alternative teaching certification program that includes student teaching. Applicants must have acquired an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or better and provide official transcripts. Courses are administered online and taught by Chadron State professors. These courses include advanced methods of performance assessment, characteristics of behavioral and emotional disabilities, curriculum development, educational philosophy, research design and data analysis, and school law. Concentrations are also available in certain subject areas so that students may tailor their degree toward interest or to meet career goals. Chadron is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as an unranked regional university in the Midwest and offers the most affordable online master’s in curriculum and instruction on our list.

BCO Staff
February 2018

This concludes our list of the 30 most affordable online master’s in curriculum and instruction programs.

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