There’s no doubt that deciding to get your phd degree is a major step in your career.  If you currently have an advanced degree in education and you like the idea of having the ability to institute real change in our educational system, then a phd in curriculum and instruction might be just what you’re looking for.

Why Get A PhD in Curriculum and Instruction PhD

Having your curriculum and instruction phd means that you’re qualified to be in a leadership position within your school district.  Most students in the curriculum and instruction phd program are licensed teachers or administrators who want a more active role in education and instruction.

What do you do with a phd in curriculum and instruction?

Well, you would be in charge of developing innovative learning strategies for your school district.  You would learn how to work with students, other teachers, mentors, and even other schools and businesses to create a comprehensive, effective learning environment.

You would also be in charge of hand picking the textbooks, technology, and other learning materials that teachers use in their classrooms.  You would make sure that your school district adheres to both state and national education mandates, and ensure that students are learning at the same rate and with the same quality instruction.

For many teachers, this degree is a huge step up from the classroom, and gives them the power to really make a difference in many students’ lives.

What You’ll Learn With Your Curriculum and Instruction PhD

The classes that are required for a phd in curriculum and instruction are widely varied, depending on which school you go to.  Some examples are:

• The Future of Teaching and Learning
• Teaching and Learning in a Diverse Population
• Strategies for Eliminating the Achievement Gap
• Learning Theory and the Educational Process
• Teacher Supervision and Evaluation
• Curriculum Development and Design
• Assessments of Student Learning
• Planning and Leading Change
• Research Trends in Technology and Education

You can also choose a special discipline in this phd program, depending on what school you choose and where your interests lie.  Some disciplines include:

• Elementary Education
• Middle School or Secondary School
• Special Education
• Corporate Training
• English Education
• Math Education
• Reading Education
• Social Studies Education

Research

In your curriculum and instruction phd program you’re going to be spending a lot of your time on research.  Most schools are going to want you to understand a wide range of research methodologies in educational technologies and, in the end, choose a methodology for your own thesis.

Some research methodologies include:

• Case study research
• Instructional design
• Program evaluation
• Ethnographic methods

Most phd programs will want to see evidence of your skills in these areas in two ways.  Firstly, you’ll be required to take courses centered around these topics.  Secondly, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a variety of ways, from conducting research and publishing you findings, or doing literary reviews.

Careers With A PhD in Curriculum and Instruction

There are several different careers you can pursue with a phd in curriculum and instruction.

Many students go on to teach at the university level, and this is a great avenue to pursue if you love academia.

Others, however, want to affect change in their local school district, so they pursue employment as school principals or in school administration.  In this setting, you will be able to constantly review teaching methods and what materials teachers have available to lecture from, and make sure that everything stays up to date with the changing technology.  You will also be in charge of reviewing testing standards to ensure they’re fair and up to par with national levels.

This is an exciting field to be in because you have the power to make a real difference in your local school.

You can also pursue careers doing research in the private sector.

So, how much can you earn with a phd in curriculum and instruction?  It’s impossible to say.  Everything depends on what specialty you choose, and where you decide to work.  You can expect to make at least $50,000 and up, however.

Getting a curriculum and instruction phd is a great investment in your future.  Careers in education are expected to grow faster than the national average, and most professionals in this field report a high degree of job satisfaction.  If you love the idea of making a real difference in the lives of the children in your community, then a phd in curriculum and instruction might be a great choice for you.