Programs of Study
M.Ed. | M.A. | PhD
Procedures for Doctoral Study
In Educational Theory, Policy & Practice
Master's Programs in Curriculum and Instruction
The LSU Department of Curriculum and Instruction offers three masters programs to meet the needs of our students. The Master's in Education (M.Ed.) is designed for students already certified who wish to continue their professional development in a formal way. The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) through the Holmes Program provides a way for students with degrees in undergraduate subjects areas outside of education to obtain a graduate degree in education and complete certification requirements at the same time. The Master of Arts in Education (M.A.) offers preparation in curriculum theory and studies for diverse settings in education beyo9nd the K-12 environment.
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Education (M.Ed.) students typically are teachers working to upgrade their certification to "highly qualified" status, working toward another area of certification or working toward National Board Certification. Others may be focusing intensively on their current area of expertise, perhaps in preparation for doctoral study in that area. Majors include Art Education, Elementary Education, English Education, Foreign Language Education, Mathematics Education, Science Education, and Social Studies Education.
Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T) students who wish to spend extended time developing the expertise to enter the profession with an enhanced capacity for leadership may choose the master’s program, that includes a full year of graduate-level professional preparation. Students earn a master’s degree in education and Louisiana Teacher Certification by completing 37-43 credit hours beyond a bachelor’s degree in elementary education or in secondary education and successfully completing the PRAXIS requirements. The program features extended experiences in diverse school settings, the support of peers who work together in small cohort groups, mentoring by graduate faculty, and the development of teacher-researcher skills. For further information on the Holmes Program.
Master of Arts in Education (M.A.)
Master of Arts in Education (M.A.) students with undergraduate degrees who seek graduate level studies in the field of education can extend their studies by taking coursework with a specialization in curriculum studies. In this program, the student has two options in order to complete their graduate studies: take 36 hours of coursework with a written comprehensive examination, or take 30 hours of course work and six hours of thesis with an oral examination. This degree is designed to prepare graduates to work in diverse settings within education, including public policy institutions, museums, postsecondary institutions, hospitals, and community agencies.
To view a listing of recent Master's graduates, click here.
PhD in Curriculum & Instruction
The PhD in Curriculum and Instruction is structured to support interdisciplinary studies and individualization for researchers and practitioners. Advanced course work and research in the liberal arts and sciences are emphasized. Specializations include: children's literature, curriculum theory, early childhood education, English education, foreign language education, gifted and talented education, mathematics education, reading and literacy education, science education, social education and special education.
- Guidelines for PhD (PDF file)
- Worksheet for PhD (PDF file)
- Current Graduate Faculty and Admission Information
Graduate Assistantships
Limited Graduate Assistants are available and are awarded on a
competitive basis. Stipends for academic-year appointments for doctoral students start at $9,000. Complete the application below and return to the Main Office in room 223E.
Graduate Assistantship Application (Available for PhD Candidates only)
Deadline for submission of applications for financial aid is January 25.
To view a listing of recent Curriculum and Instruction PhD graduates and their dissertation titles, click here.


