College of Education and Professional Studies
STEM Leadership
Master of Education | Graduate
Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction STEM Leadership Specialization
The Master's in Curriculum STEM Leadership Specialization is designed for current teachers who want to become STEM leaders in their communities.
Offered as part of CWU’s MEd in Curriculum and Instruction, the STEM Leadership Specialization is built for current P–12 teachers who have at least one year of contracted classroom experience. This mostly online program connects educators with peers, industry partners, and community members committed to preparing the next generation of STEM learners. Graduates leave prepared to design and evaluate STEM project-based instruction, create culturally responsive changes to teaching practices, conduct research to improve student achievement, and lead and advocate for high-quality STEM education in their schools and districts.
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Curriculum and Instruction
At the Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | School of Education
Education Foundation and Required Courses
- EDF 507 - Studies and Problems in Intercultural Education
- EDF 510 - Educational Research and Development
Education Foundation and Research Elective
Select two courses from the following. Only one PSY course may be used in thiis section.
- EDF 501 – Educational Foundations (3)
- EDF 502 – History of Education in the United States (3)
- EDF 503 – Educational Philosophy and Foundations (3)
- EDF 505 – Educational Measurement for Teachers (3)
- EDF 506 – Education Futurism (3)
- EDF 508 – Comparative Education (3)
- EDF 567 – Contemporary Topics (3)
- PSY 552 – Advanced Human Growth and Development (4) OR
- PSY 559 – Advanced Educational Psychology (4)
Thesis
Students must select a single thesis course and take it for a total of 6 credits.
- EDF 700 – Master's Thesis, Project Study (3)
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EDBL 700 – Master’s Thesis, Project Study, and/or Examination (1–6)
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EDEL 700 – Master’s Thesis, Project Study, and/or Examination (1–6)
STEM Leadership Specialization Required Courses
- EDF 501 – Educational Foundations (3)
- STP 501 – Designing Authentic STEM Explorations for Diverse Learners (2)
- STP 502 – Designing and Implementing Problem-Based Instruction in STEM (2)
- STP 503 – Making STEM Learning Environments Culturally Responsive (2)
- STP 504 – Designing and Implementing Project-Based Instruction in STEM (2)
- STP 505 – Reflective Teaching to Improve Student Success in STEM (2)
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STP 506 – STEM Leadership Through Peer Mentoring and Coaching (3)
- STP 507 - Department-Approved Electives (STEM Content)(12) (selected with advisors approval)
New Opportunities
Many teachers obtain their master's degree in curriculum and instruction to improve their own instructional strategies within the classroom, yet it can open up many new career opportunities as well. One possibility is a career in curriculum design at the district level or with a textbook company.
Improving Student Outcomes
The study of curriculum and instruction focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs, with an emphasis on developing effective teaching strategies and improving student outcomes across diverse learning environments.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of a MEd in Curriculum and Instruction program are equipped with the advanced skills and knowledge to pursue a wide range of impactful careers in education. Professionals with this degree can take on leadership roles and drive innovation.
Master's Degree and More
Earn your graduate degree and a teaching endorsement in bilingual education, library media, special education, or teaching English as a second language (TESL).
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Online
Our fully accredited program is offered 100% online, allowing you to progress through the program at a pace that meets your needs.
Choice
Working with a faculty advisor, every M.Ed. student undertakes an individualized course of study that includes an "area of emphasis," culminating in a meaningful Master's project or thesis.
with Advanced Degrees
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2020–21, over half (51%) of public school teachers held a master’s degree, an increase from 48% in 2011–12.
Why Study Education at Central?
- Learn from well-qualified teaching professionals who enable you to bridge theory to practice.
- Our small class sizes allow for more personalized attention from faculty, creating a collaborative and supportive learning environment. You’ll have easier access to professors and academic advisors, ensuring you get the guidance you need to succeed.
- Teacher education is in our DNA at CWU. It’s why Central was established more than a century ago and it remains one of our most important academic programs.
Flexible Coursework to Fit Your Goals
The M.Ed. program combines foundational education courses, research electives, and an area of emphasis to provide a well-rounded graduate experience.
- Core courses include topics such as intercultural education, educational research, and development, ensuring you gain essential skills for today’s classrooms.
- Electives allow you to customize your learning by selecting from courses in educational philosophy, comparative education, human development, and more.
- Students also complete a six-credit thesis or project, with options available for those pursuing Bilingual Education, TESL, or Elementary Education endorsements.
With 29 credits in an area of emphasis, this program is designed to support your professional goals. For a full list of course requirements, visit the Academic Catalog.