Program: Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.) - Elementary Education Specialization - South Dakota State University

2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

Apr 03, 2025

Student showing letters to young children.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Tony Durr, Assistant Professor
School of Education, Counseling and Human Development
Wenona Hall 206
605-688-5239

Program Information

The degree in Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) is designed to meet the needs of individuals who work (or plan to work) in some kind of an instructional capacity. The degree does not lead to a South Dakota teaching certificate nor does it lead to an endorsement on the South Dakota teaching certificate.

The C&I degree is structured to allow a great deal of flexibility. It is expected that students will take a mixture of required courses and elective credits, depending on their areas of interest. These courses may be completed with no intention of seeking a degree or may be used as part of the basis for completing a C&I degree.

Course Delivery Format

The program can be completed online through the Brookings Campus.

Student Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of current issues: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program displays knowledge of current practices, research, theories, and issues in education.
Knowledge of learning: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program demonstrates knowledge of how students learn and is able to effectively apply that knowledge within a variety of educational roles.
Curricular processes: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program effectively participates in curricular processes.
Communication skill: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program effectively communicates.
Foundational lifelong learning skills: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program displays commitment to professional involvement and growth through continual learning, reflective practice, and collaboration.
Technology: The graduate of the curriculum and instruction program makes appropriate use of educational technology.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Education	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

EDER 610 - Introduction to Research Credits: 3
EDFN 600 - Advanced Pedagogy Credits: 3
EDFN 725 - Education in a Pluralistic Society Credits: 3
EDFN 730 - Current Issues in Education (COM) Credits: 3
EPSY 740 - Advanced Educational Psychology Credits: 3

Select from the following

Select nine credits from the following. Credits: 9

EDER 612 - Inquiry and Action Research Credits: 3
EDER 711 - Educational Assessment (COM) Credits: 3
EDFN 700 - Exceptional Learners Credits: 3
EDFN 750 - Educational Technology Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

EDFN 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-6 (5 credits required)
Approved Electives Credits: 1

Option B - Research/Design Paper

EDER 788 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-6 (3 credits required)
Approved Electives Credits: 5

Option C - Coursework Only

Approved Electives Credits: 11

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

Applicants must provide a resume, goal statement, and two letters of professional reference to Education, Counseling and Human Development. Once all material is received, it is reviewed by the program faculty. Students are assigned an admission status of “unconditional,” “conditional” or “not admitted.”

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .

Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.) - Elementary Education Specialization

Location(s): OnlineClose