Curriculum & Instruction
WHERE
INNOVATION
MEETS
EDUCATION
Design Lessons that shape lifetimes
Design Lessons that shape lifetimes
Earn an advanced degree in Curriculum & Instruction
At the George Washington University’s Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD), our Curriculum & Instruction programs empower educators to be changemakers in classrooms, schools, and communities. Grounded in theory and driven by practice, our programs empower you to design meaningful learning experiences, implement innovative teaching strategies, and advocate for educational equity. Whether you're enhancing your teaching, leading curriculum reform, or influencing policy, you'll gain the tools to make a lasting impact on students and the broader field of education.
Hands-On Learning in the Nation’s Capital
Study education reform in real time in Washington, D.C., home to leading education organizations and policy influencers. Gain practical experience through internships and partnerships with nearby urban and suburban public, charter, and private schools.
Learn from Scholar-Practitioners
Collaborate with expert faculty who are deeply engaged in the field as researchers, consultants, and education leaders and bring real-world insight into every class.
Curriculum Grounded in Equity and Innovation
Explore the social, political, and cultural contexts of education while developing inclusive, student-centered curricula that meet the evolving needs of diverse learners in both formal and informal settings.
Grow as a Reflective and Responsive Educator
Engage in critical dialogue with faculty and peers, deepen your understanding of contemporary challenges in education, and refine your practice to support student success across contexts.
Explore Our C&I Programs to Find the One that Matches Your Career Goals
- Master's in Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)Unique to GW's program, deepen your expertise by selecting a concentration in:
-Interdisciplinary Studies
-Elementary Education
-Reading and LiteracyThis program prepares teachers and other educational professionals for increased responsibilities in the design, implementation, research, and evaluation of curriculum and instruction.
- 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
- Doctorate (EdD) in Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)The program cultivates research in curriculum, teaching, and learning that crosses disciplinary boundaries.
The Doctor of Education (EdD) is a highly selective, inquiry-driven program that tackles today’s most pressing challenges in both formal and informal learning environments. The program fosters interdisciplinary scholarship focused on curriculum, teaching, and learning, and students gain hands-on research opportunities with leading international education institutions in Washington, D.C.
- PhD in Education: Curriculum and Instruction
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)Research issues related to curriculum and instruction in the context of academic, social, cultural, environmental, and civic advancement. Prepared as cross-disciplinary scholars in education, graduates are poised to move into academic and research positions in universities, government agencies, and professional research organizations with missions to improve education opportunities and outcomes.
- Graduate Certificate in Curriculum Writing, Evaluation and Development
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
12 credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit master’s degree
Cultivate your ability to create inclusive, culturally responsive, and technologically advanced curricula that elevate learning outcomes for all students. Applying principles of human-centered design, students will learn to select and develop curriculum materials, with a special focus on ensuring materials are accessible, effective, and engaging.
- Graduate Certificate in Literacy Education
On-Campus (Foggy Bottom - Classes in evening to accommodate working professionals)
12 credits, which can be applied toward the 30-credit master’s degree
Explore cutting edge teaching and learning principles of interdisciplinary reading, writing, and viewing texts. Learn to design advanced curriculum and take advantage of resources near campus, such as national museums, memorials, and the Library of Congress.
- Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
Online
Master the art and science of effective instructional design in this 12-credit online certificate. Prepare to analyze learning objectives and lead instructional design projects in diverse organizational settings. Apply design theories, principles, models, tools and techniques to the development, implementation, evaluation, and ongoing management of effective learning experiences.
This program has been both challenging and rewarding, helping me grow as a researcher, writer, and leader. From day one, I’ve had opportunities to connect with professionals beyond campus — from museum educators to national park staff — all of whom have pushed me to keep learning and to lead with impact, both at GW and in the broader community.
- Lincoln Mansch, EdD Program
This program has been both challenging and rewarding, helping me grow as a researcher, writer, and leader. From day one, I’ve had opportunities to connect with professionals beyond campus — from museum educators to national park staff — all of whom have pushed me to keep learning and to lead with impact, both at GW and in the broader community.
- Lincoln Mansch, EdD Program
Designed for Working Professionals
Courses are offered in afternoons, evenings, or weekends to accommodate busy professionals, and so you can pursue internships or other professional opportunities.
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.
From classroom experience to research that matters — see how one student is making the most of GW’s EdD in C&I program.
Your Future in Curriculum & Instruction
Graduates of our Curriculum & Instruction programs are prepared to lead with purpose and drive meaningful change in classrooms, schools, and educational organizations. Whether advancing in their current roles or pursuing new opportunities, our alumni apply research-informed practices and innovative instructional strategies to improve learning outcomes and promote equity.
Potential positions include:
- Leader in Various Educational Settings
- Curriculum Developer
- University Instructor
- Teacher Mentor / Cooperating Teacher
- Advanced Academic Program Teacher
- Reading Specialist
- School Based Technology Specialist
- Instructional, Literacy or Mathematics Coach
- Museum Educator
- Researcher for University, Think Tank, Government, etc.
