The MSE program combines educational research, instructional leadership, and subject-specific study with flexible learning options for working educators.
Wayne State College ranked No. 39 nationally in Course Advisor’s 2026 Best Curriculum and Instruction Master’s Degree Schools ranking, recognizing the college’s graduate education program among the nation’s top 50.
Course Advisor’s ranking draws primarily on U.S. Department of Education data, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard. The publisher considers factors such as student outcomes, affordability, and admissions data.
Advanced preparation for classroom teachers
Wayne State’s Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Curriculum and Instruction–Instructional Leadership combines advanced study in education with coursework in a teaching specialty. The program helps educators strengthen classroom instruction, deepen subject knowledge, and develop instructional leadership skills.
Core courses address educational research, instructional theory and practice, and curriculum development. Students learn to evaluate research, explore teaching approaches, and develop curriculum around learning priorities and objectives. The program also emphasizes inclusive, evidence-based practices and professional relationships that support student achievement.
Subject-specific focus areas connect this foundation to educators’ classroom responsibilities. The Mathematics Education option combines advanced mathematics content with teaching strategies and assessment. Courses explore topics such as algebra, analysis, geometry, probability, and statistics, with connections to classroom instruction.
The Reading Specialist option develops expertise in literacy instruction for PK-12 students, including phonics, structured literacy, reading interventions, and progress monitoring. The Elementary Education option examines curriculum across language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Other focus areas include English Education, English as a Second Language, Early Childhood Education, Music Education, Family and Consumer Sciences, Business and Information Technology Education, Cross-Curricular Education, Skilled and Technical Sciences Education, and Social Sciences Education.
Flexible options for working educators
Most focus areas are fully online, with eight- and 16-week terms available. No entrance exam is required, and eligible students may transfer up to 12 graduate credits.
Teachers seeking a collaborative cohort experience can choose the hybrid Community of Learning format. Designed for practicing PK-16 teachers and education professionals, this two-year option combines online learning with in-person sessions five Saturdays per semester. Participants connect research and coursework to their own teaching practice while learning alongside other educators.
To learn more about focus areas, admission requirements, and courses, visit Wayne State’s Curriculum and Instruction master’s degree page.