Program Overview
The Curriculum & Instruction program at Montana State University offers educators the opportunity to enhance their teaching practices through three tracks: Professional Educator, Technology Education, and Educational Researcher. The program emphasizes collaboration, research, and the use of technology in education, preparing graduates for careers in K-12 education, higher education, and educational administration. Graduates earn an average salary of $65,000 within 10 years of graduation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program Title:
Curriculum & Instruction
Degree Level:
Master of Education (M.Ed. ), Doctor of Education (Ed.D. ), or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Overview:
The Curriculum and Instruction program at Montana State University provides educators with the opportunity to further develop their teaching practices. The program offers three tracks:
Professional Educator:
This track allows candidates to explore contemporary instructional strategies, enhance their understanding of pedagogy, and gain insights into student development.
Technology Education:
This track provides candidates with opportunities to investigate the use of technology in education, integrate technology into their teaching practices, and prepare students for a technology-driven world.
Educational Researcher:
This track enables candidates to combine their subject interests with research methodology to contribute to the field of education through research.
Objectives:
- Develop innovative instructional strategies
- Study pedagogical theory and best practices
- Examine current issues in education
- Contribute to educational research
Outline:
Content:
The Curriculum & Instruction program covers a range of topics, including:
- Curriculum theory and development
- Instructional design
- Assessment and evaluation
- Classroom management
- Educational psychology
- Research methods
- Educational technology
Structure:
The M.Ed. degree is delivered fully online, while the Ph.D. and Ed.D. degrees are hybrid, with a combination of online and on-campus components.
Course Schedule:
Course schedules vary depending on the specific track and degree level. However, the program typically requires students to complete 30-60 credit hours of coursework.
Individual Modules:
The program offers several specialized modules, including:
- Instructional Strategies: This module explores a variety of teaching methods and approaches.
- Technology Integration: This module focuses on the effective use of technology in the classroom.
- Educational Research: This module introduces students to research methods and provides opportunities to conduct research projects.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students in the Curriculum & Instruction program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Papers
- Presentations
- Projects
Assessment Criteria:
Students are evaluated based on their:
- Knowledge of course content
- Ability to apply theory to practice
- Research skills
- Communication skills
- Professionalism
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The Curriculum & Instruction program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Workshops
- Hands-on activities
- Online learning modules
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced educators and researchers with expertise in curriculum and instruction.
Unique Approaches:
One unique aspect of the program is the emphasis on collaboration. Students have opportunities to work with faculty, peers, and community partners on research projects and other assignments.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the Curriculum & Instruction program can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including:
- K-12 education
- Higher education
- Educational administration
- Educational policy
- Research and development
Opportunities:
The program provides opportunities for students to develop skills and knowledge that are in high demand in the education field. Graduates are prepared to:
- Design and implement effective instructional programs
- Use technology to enhance student learning
- Conduct research and contribute to the field of education
- Lead and manage educational organizations
Outcomes:
Within 10 years of graduation, alumni earn an average salary of $65,000, with salaries ranging from $60,000 to $150,000.
Montana State University
Overview:
Montana State University (MSU) is a public land-grant research university located in Bozeman, Montana. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and outreach.
Services Offered:
MSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Admissions:
Undergraduate, graduate, international, and online admissions.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life:
Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, student government, sports and fitness, and study abroad programs.Academic Support:
Library, tutoring services, disability services, and veteran services.Research:
Research and Economic Development, Sponsored Programs, Research Development, Technology Transfer, and Research Compliance.Outreach:
Extension services, lifelong learning programs, agricultural programs, and economic development initiatives.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at MSU can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including:
Athletics:
15 Bobcat teams competing in NCAA Division I.Clubs and Organizations:
Hundreds of student clubs and organizations covering a wide range of interests.Student Diversity:
A diverse student body with a strong commitment to inclusivity.Housing:
On-campus housing options for students, including residence halls and apartments.Off-Campus Student Life:
Support and resources for students living off-campus.Sports and Fitness:
Campus recreation facilities, including a gym, intramural sports, and outdoor recreation opportunities.Student Government:
The Associated Students of Montana State University (ASMSU) represents the student body.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
MSU offers over 250 academic programs across a variety of disciplines.Research Opportunities:
MSU is a top-tier research university with a strong focus on research and innovation.Vibrant Campus Life:
MSU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a wide range of extracurricular activities.Beautiful Location:
MSU is located in Bozeman, a beautiful and growing city with access to outdoor recreation opportunities.Affordable Education:
MSU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other research universities.Academic Programs:
MSU is known for its strong academic programs in the following areas: