Curriculum and Instruction
The Next Generation of Teachers and Educational Leaders
The Department of Curriculum and Instruction, ranked 6th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, is a diverse connection of teachers, teacher educators and researchers inspiring innovative teaching and learning. We offer both undergraduate and graduate programs and address the educational needs of a rapidly changing global society in democratic and socially just ways. The department values innovation and builds upon the strengths of cultural and linguistic diversity.
Our students are prepared for diverse classroom and leadership settings. Undergraduate students are prepared for careers as certified teachers or advocates for education and early childhood development. Our master’s and doctoral students are prepared for teaching and leadership positions that promote equity and excellence in the education of diverse communities.
Each of our programs features classroom coursework and discussions, as well as valuable experiential fieldwork. Students are prepared for careers as a certified teacher or advocate for education and early childhood development.
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Our graduate programs focus on how modern curriculum influences education, and prepares students for careers in teaching and educational leadership. Students engage in research on topics such as diversity, technology and literacy.
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Our faculty works closely with students to examine trends in education, such as agency and social-emotional learning, that will better prepare teachers to become engaged and motivational educators.
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Our teacher preparation program provides you with nearly 800 hours of hands-on experience working with children in classrooms across several semesters, exceeding the state requirement. By the end of their program, students will be well prepared to take the teacher certification exams. Our program’s passing rate historically exceeds 95 percent.
Learn MoreFeatured Stories
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As a first-generation college student, Marcy Peña is shaping her career through culturally responsive teaching and a commitment to inclusive classroom environments.
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Spring 2026 graduate and teacher Kelli Mulloy brings her Texas spirit to the classroom, where her students’ enthusiasm for learning is contagious.
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Recent COE graduate Amelia Traviesa’s longtime commitment to education, service and meaningful change led her from the Youth and Community Studies program to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office of the Attorney General.
