K-12 Education
SHAPE THE MINDS THAT WILL SHAPE OUR FUTURE
revolutionize Learning, One Classroom at a Time
Earn an advanced degree in K-12 Education Specialties
As teaching and learning practices constantly evolve to better cater to students' achievements and needs, GW’s Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD) prepares educators, administrators, and researchers with the skills to adapt and become leaders in their respective fields.
Our programs go beyond traditional teaching methods, equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and insights needed to create engaging and inclusive learning environments. Through immersive field experiences and partnerships with local schools, you’ll gain practical insights that prepare you to meet the ever-evolving academic and developmental needs of all learners.
Whether you aspire to become an elementary teacher, a curriculum specialist, or an educational leader, GW has a program to match your career goals.
Get the Inside Scoop
Complete the form below to learn more about degree requirements, course descriptions, tuition, and more.
Explore Our Education Programs to Find the One that Matches Your Career Goals
- Master's in Elementary Education
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom)
Prepare for Licensure in Teaching Elementary School
(Grades 1-6; in DC and partner states of the interstate compact agreement)1- or 2-year Intensive Program
(Full-Time: Complete in 1 Year; Part-Time: Complete in 2 Years)Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Students complete field work/internships in diverse local schools
- Master's in Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
Select concentration in Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Education, or Reading and Literacy
Prepare for increased responsibilities in the design, implementation, research, and evaluation of curriculum and instruction
- Doctor of Education (EdD) in Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
48 Course Credits
Join a Research Practice Team to address pressing educational challenges through inquiry-centered research from day one.
Gain hands-on interdisciplinary research opportunities with leading international education institutions in D.C.
- PhD in Education - Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
60 Course Credits
Prepare to move into academic and research positions in universities, government agencies, and professional research organizations with missions to improve education opportunities and outcomes.
Student are admitted to work on specific research projects alongside expert faculty. Projects relate to curriculum and instruction in the context of academic, social, cultural, environmental, and civic advancement.
Learn more about the PhD program and current research projects >
- Literacy Education Graduate Certificate
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
12 Course Credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction
Learn about cutting-edge teaching and learning principles of interdisciplinary reading, writing, and viewing texts, in and out of schools.
See if the Literacy Education Certificate Program is Right for You >
- Curriculum Writing, Evaluation and Development Graduate Certificate
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
12 Course Credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction
Apply principles of human-centered design to develop accessible, inclusive, culturally responsive, and technologically advanced curricula that is effective and engaging to elevate learning outcomes for all students.
Learn more about the Transition Leadership Grad Certificate >
The GW ADvantage
Access Washington, D.C.
Where better to drive educational transformation than in the heart of our nation's capital? Benefit from GW's unparalleled access to learning and career opportunities at leading national archives and libraries, urban and suburban public, charter, and private schools, and major science, arts, humanities, and performance centers.
Leading Faculty
Learn directly from nationally recognized educators, practicing professionals, and industry leaders in our dynamic learning community. Our faculty share their insights and expertise in implementing the latest teaching methodologies and educational technologies, as well as in leading innovative research in the ever-changing education sectors.
Deepen Your Knowledge
Further develop the knowledge, skills, and qualities essential for teaching effectiveness by engaging with faculty and peers in meaningful dialogue about critical issues facing students today.
GRE is Not Required
The GSEHD Admissions team completes a wholistic review, considering extracurricular activities, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
No Application Fee
There’s no risk to applying to GSEHD, only reward! So what are you waiting for? Apply today!
Funding Available
Explore opportunities for GW, GSEHD, and external scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options.
New: Save 20% with Federal Service Scholarship
If you are a current U.S. federal civilian employee or a federal employee/contractor affected by the 2025 federal workforce reductions, you may be eligible for GSEHD's Federal Service Scholarship, which provides a 20% tuition discount.
- Eligible programs: Master's in Curriculum & Instruction, Master's in Elementary Education
- Deadline: Apply for Fall 2025 enrollment by June 1
- Additional limitations may apply
I attribute a great deal of my success to the exemplary programs at GSEHD. The professors were extremely knowledgeable about current issues in K-12 education. I am grateful that GW gave me the tools I needed to excel in this meaningful profession.
DR. JARED COTTON
2018 Virginia Superintendent of the Year
Superintendent, Chesapeake Public Schools
Your Future—In or Beyond the Classroom
Earning an advanced degree in curriculum and instruction opens doors to leadership roles within schools, districts, and the broader K-12 education landscape. While many graduates advance as educators and instructional leaders, others leverage their expertise in diverse roles, including:
- Curriculum Developers/Coordinators
- Instructional, Literacy or Mathematics Coaches
- Teacher Mentors
- Advanced Academic Program Teachers
- Early Childhood Education Specialists
- Instructional Designers
- Educational Leaders
- Museum Educators
- University Instructors
- Researchers
- Education Consultants
100%
Elementary Education Program Grads Employed
*Data from past 5 years
