Curriculum and Instruction
The Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Instructional Design is a one year full time program designed for students seeking to develop expertise in creating effective learning experiences and educational materials. The curriculum combines educational theory with applied design practice, enabling learners to develop instructional strategies, curriculum frameworks and technology enhanced learning solutions for diverse educational contexts. Students gain skills in curriculum development, instructional technology, learning assessment and educational research, equipping them to design engaging and evidence based learning environments. The program structure balances theoretical knowledge with hands on application, preparing graduates to create instructional solutions that meet the needs of modern learners and educational institutions.
The program also emphasizes research driven practice by connecting instructional design with pedagogy, cognitive science and educational technology. Students participate in project based assignments, workshops and collaborative initiatives guided by faculty experts, gaining practical experience in designing, implementing and evaluating instructional programs. Access to modern learning technologies, instructional labs and professional networks enhances applied learning and professional readiness. By the end of the program, graduates develop competencies in learning experience design, curriculum evaluation, educational technology integration and research informed practice, preparing them for roles in education, training and instructional design.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Curriculum and Instruction
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Instructional Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 - Foundations in Curriculum and Instruction
• Principles of Instructional Design
• Learning Theories and Pedagogy
• Curriculum Development and Planning
• Research Methods in Education
Semester 2 - Applied Instructional Design and Professional Practice
• Technology Enhanced Learning
• Assessment and Evaluation Strategies
• Project Based Instructional Design
• Independent Research Project or Professional Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in designing, implementing and evaluating educational programs and learning solutions. Many work in schools and universities, corporate training departments, educational technology firms and consultancy organizations, developing curriculum, instructional materials and professional development programs. Additional opportunities exist in e learning design, instructional research, learning management systems administration and educational program evaluation. The program’s emphasis on applied practice, research driven instruction and instructional technology equips graduates to create effective learning experiences and improve educational outcomes across diverse settings.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it integrates curriculum development expertise, instructional design practice, technology enhanced learning and research informed strategies, enabling them to deliver high quality educational solutions. The curriculum emphasizes hands on experience, practical application and critical evaluation of instructional approaches while offering opportunities for project based learning and professional collaboration. With guidance from experienced faculty, access to instructional resources and exposure to real world educational challenges, students strengthen both professional skills and theoretical understanding. This program is particularly appealing to individuals who aim to innovate in teaching, develop effective learning programs and apply research driven approaches to educational design.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
