Curriculum and Instruction
The Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Instructional Design is a one year full time program designed for students who want to develop expertise in designing, implementing, and evaluating effective learning experiences across educational and organizational settings. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, enabling learners to create instructional programs, integrate learning technologies, and assess educational outcomes. Students gain expertise in curriculum development, instructional strategies, learning assessment, and educational research, equipping them to apply evidence based methods to enhance teaching and learning. The program structure emphasizes both academic rigor and applied practice, preparing graduates to lead instructional initiatives and contribute to educational improvement.
The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary learning by connecting instructional design with technology, psychology, and organizational studies. Students engage in workshops, research projects, collaborative assignments, and field based activities guided by experienced faculty. Access to teaching resources, digital learning platforms, and professional networks enhances both practical skills and theoretical understanding. By the end of the program, graduates develop competencies in program design, learning evaluation, technology integration, and research application, positioning them for roles in schools, training centers, and educational organizations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Curriculum and Instruction
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- 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 Instructional Design
• Principles of Curriculum and Instruction
• Instructional Design Models
• Educational Psychology and Learning Theory
• Research Methods in Education
Semester 2 - Advanced Curriculum and Instruction Practices
• Technology Enhanced Learning
• Assessment and Evaluation Strategies
• Instructional Program Development
• Independent Project or Professional Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in schools, higher education institutions, corporate training departments, and educational consultancy organizations. Many work in educational organizations, training centers, curriculum development teams, and consulting firms, designing instructional programs, implementing learning technologies, and evaluating educational effectiveness. Additional opportunities exist in instructional consultancy, professional development coordination, and research in education and training. The program’s emphasis on applied practice, research skills, and instructional expertise equips graduates to create effective learning experiences, enhance educational programs, and contribute to organizational and academic success.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines curriculum development expertise, instructional design skills, educational research experience, and technology integration knowledge, providing a comprehensive foundation for careers in education and training. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, project based learning, and critical analysis while offering exposure to real world teaching and learning challenges. With guidance from experienced faculty, access to educational resources, and opportunities for field based practice, students strengthen both professional competence and analytical insight. This program is particularly appealing to individuals who aim to lead instructional initiatives, design effective curricula, integrate technology in learning, and improve educational outcomes across diverse contexts. It prepares graduates to address contemporary instructional challenges, implement innovative solutions, and influence teaching and learning at institutional and organizational levels.
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
