Curriculum and Instruction, Ed.S.

Program Description

The Education Specialist degree is a practitioner’s degree at the post-master’s level for those who seek advanced credentials but not a full doctoral degree with a dissertation requirement. The objective of the degree is to develop skills and competencies that will make the student a more effective leader in the field of Curriculum and Instruction. The Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction degree is designed for individuals with a master’s degree who wish to advance their curriculum and instruction knowledge in their chosen discipline.  

Program Outcomes  

1. Design developmentally appropriate curricula to improve academic success utilizing current strategies and technology. (AO3)
2. Utilize research-based academic theories, standards, and frameworks to guide content selection, evidence-based instruction, critical thinking, and original research development. (AO1)
3. Design assessment plans and methods grounded in research and theory to support the continuous improvement of student success. (AO1)
4. Evaluate data to support instruction that enhances social emotional development, critical thinking, and student-driven inquiry through professional research. (AO4)
5. Develop strategies to support a positive student-centered learning environment that encourages communication and collaboration between the educator, learners, community, and stakeholders. (AO2)
6. Apply research-based instructional strategies to develop competency in multiple literacies and knowledge and skills across content areas. (AO2)
7. Demonstrate growth as a professional and leader in curriculum and assessment by developing and implementing effective instructional strategies, utilizing data to drive decision-making, and promoting continuous improvement in educational practices. (AO5)
8. Apply, analyze, and promote best practices in leadership. (AO5)
9. Demonstrate competence in the application of multiple research methods. (AO1) 

Mission Statement

The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Curriculum and Instruction prepares graduate students to contribute to their professional settings as leaders in the curriculum and instruction field. Students explore research based methods and strategies to support best practices in the field. In addition to the project-based coursework, students will pursue original contributions in curriculum and instruction in a final capstone project.