In the Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction, courses are taught by experienced education leaders and scholars, who assist candidates throughout a rigorous degree track by stressing the importance of integrity, competence and servant leadership. We establish a critical theoretical and practical approach for well-rounded learning environments which prepare candidates for success in the field of education today and tomorrow for education leaders. The program is directed toward the preparation of master classroom teachers, enabling teachers to increase mastery of curriculum methodology, pedagogy and theoretical applications and apply these skills to their teaching to achieve a deeper penetration into subjects, enhance understanding of the learner and the process of education, and become a resource person for curriculum development. Throughout the program, candidates will be required to integrate their new knowledge, skills and instructional practices into their current educational settings.

In addition to the overall mission and vision of the Concordia University Chicago graduate programs, candidates will acquire the following knowledge and competencies in the Curriculum and Instruction program:

• Have a proactive approach to the principles, practices, and problems in school reading programs with an emphasis on application of current theory and research.

• Be knowledgeable of curriculum models and theories and the selection and organization of learning experiences.

• Examine contemporary educational issues in the United States.

• Develop knowledge and skills regarding effective teaching and instruction.

• Understand effective teacher leadership in classrooms, schools, and other social institutions.

• Develop and organize curriculum to facilitate acquisition, maintenance and generalization of skills for students with special needs.

• Examine and apply action research in educational settings.

• Examine major perspectives of cognitive development throughout the life span, including the developmental and information processing approaches.