COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Education in Educational Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Elementary Education at The University of Southern Mississippi is a fully online 30-credit-hour graduate program designed for educators seeking advanced professional knowledge, instructional expertise, and leadership skills in elementary education. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on the last 60 undergraduate credit hours. The admission process also requires three recommendation letters from education professionals who can evaluate the applicant’s readiness for graduate study, a statement of purpose outlining professional experiences and career goals, a current résumé or CV, and a copy of an active educator license. Students who do not yet possess a valid educator license may still receive conditional admission but must obtain appropriate licensure by the end of their first semester. The program accepts new students every academic term, offering flexibility and accessibility for working professionals. The curriculum is designed to strengthen teaching effectiveness, curriculum planning, and instructional leadership while focusing on the academic and developmental needs of elementary school students. Core courses include Educational Research: Interpretation and Applications, Teaching Language Arts in the Elementary Grades, Elementary Mathematics Methods, Social Studies Education in Elementary School, Culturally Responsive Curriculum in Education, and Seminar in Early Childhood Education. In addition to the required coursework, students complete 12 hours of advisor-approved electives selected from areas such as curriculum and instruction, educational administration, music education, reading education, special education, and other related fields. The program emphasizes research-based teaching practices, culturally responsive instruction, and innovative classroom strategies that support diverse learning environments and improve student achievement. Because the degree aligns with Mississippi’s advanced licensure standards, it can help educators pursue career advancement, leadership opportunities, curriculum development roles, and specialized instructional positions. Overall, the program prepares educators to become highly skilled elementary education professionals capable of enhancing teaching quality, supporting student success, and contributing positively to modern educational systems through effective and inclusive instructional practices.