Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Programs
Curriculum development is an important area of education. Both children and adult learners need professionals to develop learning materials, courses, and programs that are both ability and age-appropriate.
An online Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate is designed for graduates in the education field who desire a career in developing course material and improving school curricula. Educators are the ideal candidates, with their extensive experience, to create effective study programs.
2026 Best Online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Programs
University of Denver
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu
Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificates
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Denver's online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificates offer licensed educators flexible 24-credit programs completed in one to two years. Available in online, on-campus, or hybrid formats, these certificates provide specializations in Gifted Education, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE), and Special Education. Some programs qualify for Colorado Department of Education endorsements, enhancing career opportunities. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level program, making it accessible for educators seeking to advance their expertise in specific educational fields through advanced knowledge and skills development.
- 24 credit hours required
- Online and on-campus options
- One to two years completion
- For licensed educators
- Gifted Education specialization
- CLDE specialization
- Special Education specialization
- Colorado endorsements available
- Flexible learning formats
- Advanced educator preparation
Graduate Certificate - Gifted Education Certificate
Concentration: Gifted Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on Gifted Education, this online certificate from the University of Denver delves into the unique characteristics and emotional needs of gifted students, covering psychological aspects, curriculum design, and instructional strategies. The 24-credit program, completable in one to two years, requires a teaching license and may lead to a Colorado CORE Endorsement. It serves as a pathway to a Master’s degree and emphasizes flexible learning. No entrance exam is needed for this graduate certificate, ideal for educators aiming to specialize in gifted education without standardized testing barriers.
- Online program
- 24 credit hours
- 1-2 years completion
- Colorado CORE Endorsement eligible
- Teaching license required
- Courses on gifted learners
- Flexible learning formats
- Pathway to Master’s degree
- Focus on emotional needs
- Educational strategies covered
Graduate Certificate - Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) Certificate
Concentration: Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) Certificate at the University of Denver equips licensed educators with skills in culturally responsive pedagogy, language development, literacy, and family-school partnerships. The 24-credit program blends theory with practice, focusing on equity and inclusion, and qualifies for a Colorado CORE endorsement. Flexible options support working professionals, with no entrance exam required for admission. It's tailored for those seeking to enhance their ability to serve diverse learners effectively in an online graduate certificate format.
- 24 credit hours
- Online program
- Colorado CORE endorsement
- Licensed educators required
- Focus on equity
- Flexible learning options
- Culturally responsive pedagogy
- Language development focus
- Literacy strategies
- Family-school partnerships
Graduate Certificate - Special Education Certificate
Concentration: Special Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Denver's online Special Education Certificate prepares licensed educators to support children with special needs through inclusive pedagogy, literacy instruction, and behavior analysis. This 24-credit program, flexible for completion in one to two years, may lead to a Special Education Generalist endorsement in Colorado. Coursework emphasizes collaboration with families and school personnel to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. No entrance exam is required for this graduate certificate, offering an accessible route for educators to advance their special education expertise entirely online.
- 24 credit hours
- Online program
- 1-2 years completion
- Licensed educator requirement
- Special Education Generalist endorsement
- Flexible learning options
- Focus on inclusive pedagogy
- Literacy instruction covered
- Behavior analysis included
- Collaboration with families
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University offers a fully online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate designed for licensed teachers seeking to enhance their skills without pursuing state licensure. This 9-12 credit program mirrors master's degree tracks and requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.50+ GPA on the last 60 credits, a non-degree seeking application, and a $40 fee. With rolling admissions, it provides flexibility for educators aiming to advance their careers without the full commitment of a master's program. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate.
- Fully online program
- 9-12 credit hours
- For licensed teachers
- No state licensure
- Rolling admissions
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.50+ GPA needed
- Non-degree application
- $40 application fee
- Flexible for educators
Graduate Certificate - Exceptional & Diverse Learners Graduate Certificate
Concentration: Exceptional & Diverse Learners - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online Exceptional & Diverse Learners Graduate Certificate focuses on equipping educators with advanced strategies for teaching diverse learners, including those with exceptionalities like Autism Spectrum Disorder. This 9-credit program covers theories, technology in special education, and practical applications, tailored for working professionals. It does not lead to licensure and requires a non-degree application for admission. No entrance exam is needed, making it accessible for educators seeking to specialize in special education through a flexible online format.
- Online program format.
- 9 credit hours total.
- Focus on exceptional learners.
- No teaching licensure provided.
- Flexible for professionals.
Graduate Certificate - STEM Education Graduate Certificate
Concentration: STEM Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University provides an online STEM Education Graduate Certificate that enhances teaching skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This 12-credit program includes a core course on STEM learning and teaching, plus electives in fields like biology or mathematics, without leading to licensure. Ideal for educators specializing in STEM, it requires a non-degree application and has no entrance exam requirement. The online delivery offers convenience for professionals advancing their expertise in STEM education.
- Online program
- 12 credit hours
- No teaching licensure
- STEM-focused electives
- Non-degree application
Graduate Certificate - The Effective Teacher Graduate Certificate
Concentration: Effective Teaching - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online Effective Teacher Graduate Certificate concentrates on effective teaching methods, featuring courses such as Educational Leadership and Developing Web-based Instruction. This 9-credit program improves teaching skills without licensure outcomes and is suited for educators seeking professional development. Admission involves a non-degree application, and no entrance exam is required. The fully online format ensures flexibility for working teachers to enhance their instructional strategies efficiently.
- Online program
- 9 credit hours
- Focus on Effective Teaching
- No licensure outcome
- Non-Degree Application required
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - Public 4-Year - georgiasouthern.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgia Southern University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction is a concise 9-credit program tailored for educators holding a Master’s degree. This fully online format offers flexibility with Spring and Summer entry terms, requiring a 2.75 cumulative GPA for admission. The program focuses on advancing teaching strategies and curriculum development skills, providing a specialized pathway for career advancement without the commitment of a full degree. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in curriculum and instruction efficiently.
- Online format.
- 9 credit hours.
- Spring, Summer entry.
- 2.75 GPA required.
- For Master’s holders.
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - Private 4-year - phoenix.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Phoenix-Arizona's online Post Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction provides educators with advanced training in curriculum development and instructional leadership. This 15-credit program offers flexible scheduling ideal for working professionals, allowing direct application of coursework to real-world educational challenges. While the program does not lead to teacher licensure, it prepares graduates for curriculum design and instructional leadership roles. Credits earned are transferable toward a Doctor of Education degree. As a post-master's level program, no entrance exam is required for admission.
- Online program
- 15 credits required
- Flexible scheduling
- Transferable credits
- No teacher licensure
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO - Public 4-Year - missouristate.edu
Graduate Certificate - Elementary Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri State University-Springfield's Elementary Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate is a fully online program tailored for PreK-8 educators seeking to refine their instructional methods and address contemporary educational challenges. Participants gain expertise in curriculum development, implementation, and assessment, fostering engaging learning environments. This flexible program accommodates working professionals and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for career advancement. Emphasizing current best practices, it equips educators with the skills to adapt to evolving elementary education demands, supported by advisement, financial aid, and faculty resources.
- 100% online program.
- Focus on PreK-8 education.
- Enhances teaching skills.
- Learn current educational practices.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- No concentration specified.
- Advisement available.
- Scholarships and financial aid.
- Student opportunities and services.
- Faculty and staff support.
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA - Public 4-Year - kennesaw.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kennesaw State University's online Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction prepares educators for curriculum specialist roles through a 21-credit, seven-course program. It emphasizes curriculum development, instructional strategies, and student data analysis, requiring a master's degree in education, a teaching certificate, and three years of experience for admission. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. The program is fully online, approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, and features small class sizes with individualized learning to enhance curriculum design and implementation skills.
- 100% Online
- 21 Credit Hours
- 7 Courses
- Georgia PSC Approved
- Small class sizes
- Individualized learning
- Master's degree required
- 3 years experience needed
- Teaching certificate required
- Focus on curriculum development
Biola University
La Mirada, CA - Private 4-year - biola.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
Biola University's online Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction is a 12-credit graduate program that educators can complete in just 1-2 semesters. This fully online program focuses on enhancing curriculum development skills, educational processes, student assessment, and classroom management. Graduates are prepared to write or edit curricula for school districts or publication. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is mentioned as required. The program costs approximately $8,376 and offers flexibility for working professionals. It can stand alone or complement Biola's master's programs in education, making it ideal for career advancement without relocation.
- 12-credit graduate program
- Fully online
- 1-2 semesters duration
- Focus on curriculum development
- Requires bachelor's degree
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Cost: $8,376
- Can complement master's programs
- Prepares for curriculum writing
- Enhances educational processes knowledge
Queens University of Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - Private 4-year - queens.edu
Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Specialist Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Queens University of Charlotte's online Curriculum & Instruction Specialist Graduate Certificate is designed for educators seeking to enhance curriculum design and instructional strategies. This 15-credit program can be completed in 10-12 months at $550 per credit hour, totaling $8,250. It emphasizes data-driven decision-making, curriculum evaluation, and alignment with North Carolina standards, preparing graduates for roles like instructional coordinator. The program requires a North Carolina teaching license for add-on licensure and does not require an entrance exam, offering flexible online learning options for career advancement.
- 15 credit hours
- 10-12 months completion
- $550 per credit hour
- Online, hybrid, in-person
- Prepares for NC licensure
- Focus on curriculum design
- Data-driven decision making
- Aligns with NC standards
- Flexible learning options
- Career advancement opportunities
2026 Affordable Online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Programs
| Missouri State University |
|
|
| Biola University |
|
|
| Queens University of Charlotte |
|
|
| Fort Hays State University |
|
|
| Georgia Southern University |
|
|
| University of Denver |
|
|
| Kennesaw State University |
|
|
| University of Phoenix-Arizona |
|
|
What Are the Online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Requirements?
Before applying to an online curriculum and instruction graduate certificate program, prospective students will need to ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements. This will vary by school, but in general, students will need to fulfill the following:
- A bachelor's and a master's degree in relevant education subjects
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Demonstrable experience working as a teacher, typically a minimum of two years
- If you do not speak English as a first language, the college will expect you to submit certification of a relevant and accredited English language certification. These include TOEFL, PTEA and TOEFL. Some colleges might accept DuoLingo and ELS112
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- The non-refundable application fee
- A personal statement with further details about your background and experience
- Some schools may ask that you complete an essay answering a question concerning a specific issue in education
What Type of Classes Are Included in the Online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Program?
Graduate certificates in curriculum and instruction typically consist of a series of courses that can be completed within a year. Common course topics covered in this type of certificate program often include:
- Curriculum Design for Learning Environments
- Assessment Design
- Accelerated Learning Programs
- Leadership in the Classroom
- Evidence-Based Learning
- Integrating Technology into Teaching
- Teaching Models
- Global Perspectives
- Current Issues in Education
- Curriculum Development Theory
- Collaborative Teaching
- Supervision in Education
- Teaching & Learning Analytics
- Statistical Analysis in Learning Environments
- Principles and Procedures of Curriculum Development
- Developing Elementary School Curriculum
- Developing Secondary School Curriculum
- Developing Junior High and Middle School Curriculum
- Developing Alternative School Curricula
What Type of Careers Can I Pursue with an Online Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate?
As an educator with a curriculum and instruction graduate certificate, rewarding careers in several industries are available to you. Popular pathways include:
- Private Tutor: You will be responsible for teaching one-to-one independently. You will oversee the development of your course material, often subject to specific standards.
- Business Training Associate: This role involves training adults in business systems and essential workplace skills. While you might be expected to adhere to industry standards on training, you will have some degree of control over course design.
- Corporate Trainer: Similarly, this role involves working within a business to support employee development, spearheading onboarding and training initiatives.
- Instructional Coordinator: Outside of frontline or second-line training, these professionals work at the top of organizations and the government. Your job is to design curricula, set up tests with students, and evaluate a school or organization's educational practices.
- School Teacher: Your skills will help you design effective lesson plans and assignment structures, as well as conduct evaluations of individual and group performance. Applies to elementary, secondary, and post-secondary.
- Special Needs Program Director: Children with learning or developmental difficulties need special consideration. Sometimes they need a different approach to study and a different type of program.
- Gifted Children Program Director: Gifted children also require special consideration and tailored teaching methods, as well as sometimes specialized curricula.
- Test/Exam Developer: Direct your skills towards creating age and skill-appropriate examination systems for schools and colleges.
Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate Programs List
Arizona
Phoenix, AZ
University of Phoenix-Arizona
- Graduate Certificate - Post Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 15 credits required
- Flexible scheduling
- Transferable credits
- No teacher licensure
California
La Mirada, CA
Biola University
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Website
- 12-credit graduate program
- Fully online
- 1-2 semesters duration
- Focus on curriculum development
- Requires bachelor's degree
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Cost: $8,376
- Can complement master's programs
Colorado
Denver, CO
University of Denver
- Graduate Certificate - Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) Certificate
Concentration: Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education - Online Learning - Website
- 24 credit hours
- Online program
- Colorado CORE endorsement
- Licensed educators required
- Focus on equity
- Flexible learning options
- Culturally responsive pedagogy
- Language development focus
- Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificates
Online Learning - Website
- 24 credit hours required
- Online and on-campus options
- One to two years completion
- For licensed educators
- Gifted Education specialization
- CLDE specialization
- Special Education specialization
- Colorado endorsements available
- Graduate Certificate - Gifted Education Certificate
Concentration: Gifted Education - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 24 credit hours
- 1-2 years completion
- Colorado CORE Endorsement eligible
- Teaching license required
- Courses on gifted learners
- Flexible learning formats
- Pathway to Master’s degree
- Graduate Certificate - Special Education Certificate
Concentration: Special Education - Online Learning - Website
- 24 credit hours
- Online program
- 1-2 years completion
- Licensed educator requirement
- Special Education Generalist endorsement
- Flexible learning options
- Focus on inclusive pedagogy
- Literacy instruction covered
Georgia
Kennesaw, GA
Kennesaw State University
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online
- 21 Credit Hours
- 7 Courses
- Georgia PSC Approved
- Small class sizes
- Individualized learning
- Master's degree required
- 3 years experience needed
Statesboro, GA
Georgia Southern University
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Website
- Online format.
- 9 credit hours.
- Spring, Summer entry.
- 2.75 GPA required.
- For Master’s holders.
Kansas
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University
- Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 9-12 credit hours
- For licensed teachers
- No state licensure
- Rolling admissions
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.50+ GPA needed
- Non-degree application
- Graduate Certificate - Exceptional & Diverse Learners Graduate Certificate
Concentration: Exceptional & Diverse Learners - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- 9 credit hours total.
- Focus on exceptional learners.
- No teaching licensure provided.
- Flexible for professionals.
- Graduate Certificate - STEM Education Graduate Certificate
Concentration: STEM Education - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 12 credit hours
- No teaching licensure
- STEM-focused electives
- Non-degree application
- Graduate Certificate - The Effective Teacher Graduate Certificate
Concentration: Effective Teaching - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 9 credit hours
- Focus on Effective Teaching
- No licensure outcome
- Non-Degree Application required
Missouri
Springfield, MO
Missouri State University
- Graduate Certificate - Elementary Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program.
- Focus on PreK-8 education.
- Enhances teaching skills.
- Learn current educational practices.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- No concentration specified.
- Advisement available.
- Scholarships and financial aid.
North Carolina
Charlotte, NC
Queens University of Charlotte
- Graduate Certificate - Curriculum & Instruction Specialist Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 15 credit hours
- 10-12 months completion
- $550 per credit hour
- Online, hybrid, in-person
- Prepares for NC licensure
- Focus on curriculum design
- Data-driven decision making
- Aligns with NC standards
Do we need to add to or update any of the information listed? Please contact us so we can keep our site updated.