COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s program in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology (CDIT) at University at Albany (UAlbany) is an online, flexible graduate degree designed to help educators and professionals strengthen their expertise in curriculum design, instructional theory, and educational technology. The program focuses on preparing students to create effective and engaging learning environments by integrating modern teaching strategies with technology-driven approaches.The curriculum begins with foundational coursework in Educational and Social Thought, where students explore topics such as the social context of teaching and the role of communication and technology in knowledge-building. Students also study Human Learning and Development to understand how learners acquire knowledge, with emphasis on applying this understanding to academic disciplines. Instructional Theory and Practice forms a core part of the program, focusing on designing effective instruction and improving teaching methods through structured learning models.Students further specialize through coursework in Curriculum Development or Instructional Technology, where they examine areas such as program development, bilingual education, media in teaching, educational computing, and the integration of technology across curricula. A research component helps students develop critical inquiry skills by engaging with educational research paradigms, applied research methods, or completing a master’s thesis in educational theory and practice.In addition, students complete 15 credits of supporting courses tailored to their individual interests, allowing for further specialization. Overall, the program equips graduates with the knowledge and practical skills needed to design innovative curricula, enhance instructional practices, and contribute to the advancement of education in technology-rich learning environments.