The M.A.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction is a course of study designed for educators who wish to strengthen their understanding of curriculum theory, integrated curricula, the role of technology in curriculum, curricula and global issues, and the ways in which action research can be used to shape more effective curriculum. This degree is intended for candidates who already have initial licensure. Candidates who are not planning to obtain a teaching license may also obtain this degree.

This degree program is unique due to the flexibility in its course choices. Of the 36 required credits, 15-18 credits (determined by a candidate's decision to complete either a 3 or 6-credit thesis) are dedicated to the core course requirements while the rest of the degree is comprised of electives that are chosen by the candidate (in concert with their assigned advisor). Those electives can be in any field that has a natural connection with educational practices. For instance, a candidate might chose to take 18 credits of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) coursework in order to (a) improve K–12 science and mathematics education, (b) strengthen their skills through additional training in science, math and technology, and (c) enlarge the pipeline of students prepared to enter college and graduate with STEM degrees.

Please review the program plan for an overview of the core courses required, the framework that allows for elective choice, and the possibility of bringing in existing credit from another regionally approved institution.

Castleton Center for Schools’ courses are considered transfer courses for any student wishing to matriculate into a Castleton education graduate program. Education department advisors can accept “up to 12 credits” of transferred credits, as per our graduate catalog, which would include any Center for Schools courses, toward the overall graduate elective requirements of any CU program. The acceptance of those credits is determined by education department faculty who advise our graduate students. Once a student has matriculated into a grad program, she/he can request to use additional Center for Schools’ courses as electives, again, after gaining approval from their advisors.