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Flexible Learning: Online, On-campus, Hybrid.

Curriculum and Instruction: Building a Purposeful Career

Curriculum and instruction are at the core of every effective school, district, and university system. The professionals who design learning experiences, evaluate instructional practices, and guide how educators teach play a critical role in shaping student success and creating environments where learners can thrive. At the doctoral level, that work becomes research-driven, systems-level, and genuinely transformative.
 
Whether you aspire to lead curriculum development for a school district, teach at the university level, conduct educational research, or drive instructional reform across entire education systems, the right doctoral program gives you the tools to get there. With the Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, Keiser University is here to help.

Master Research Methods and Educational Practice

Develop advanced research skills through quantitative research, qualitative research, and mixed methods to evaluate and improve curriculum and instruction initiatives.

Learn from Faculty Members with Real-World Expertise

Study with experienced faculty who bring practical knowledge from teaching, educational leadership positions, and dissertation research in learning environments.

Study Your Way: Online

More flexibility with your schedule. Complete coursework around your life. Access to programs from anywhere, and the ability to keep working while earning your degree.

Lead Curriculum Development and Educational Reform

Prepare to take on educational leadership roles, shape curriculum theory, drive instructional improvement, and advance student learning outcomes across the education system.

At a Glance

60

Credit Hours

20

Courses

30 – 48

Months*

8

Week Terms

  • Up to 18 transfer credits *
  • Career opportunities in curriculum development, educational leadership, post-secondary instruction, and more
  • Online
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

PhD in Curriculum and Instruction Overview

Keiser University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction provides a comprehensive examination of teaching and learning across the education field. The instruction PhD program explores curriculum development, instructional strategies, educational technology, teacher education, and research methods needed to improve student learning outcomes. Coursework covers curriculum theory, qualitative methods, experimental design, learning environments, and dissertation research. Students examine philosophical underpinnings of curriculum, analyze instructional improvement strategies, and investigate the socio-cultural contexts that shape educational practice. The PhD program prepares graduates for leadership roles, career paths in higher education, and positions that influence the education system.

Program Mission

The mission of the PhD in Curriculum and Instructional Leadership (CIL) program is to prepare innovative and ethical scholars and practitioners who advance the field of curriculum and instruction through innovative research, critical analysis, and practical application. In this program, students develop skills to design inclusive and effective learning environments by integrating evidence-based practices that meet the individual needs of learners. The program emphasizes reflective analysis, ethical decision-making, and scholarly communication, equipping professionals to design transformative curricula, assess student learning, and lead educational innovation.

Program Goals

Upon completion of the program, doctoral students will be able to:

  • Ability to integrate best practices and theory to design effective instructional environments that meet the needs of individual learners.
  • Develop skills to meaningfully communicate and lead in a variety of organizational learning environments.
  • Design and apply effective assessment methods to analyze instruction and curriculum initiatives.
  • Contribute as scholar-researchers in the field of curriculum and instruction to advance the body of knowledge.

Pre-requisites for Major Courses

Master’s degree from an accredited institution.

Program Admission Requirements

Transfer Credits

Admission Requirements

Admission Checklist

State Licensure Disclosures

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Students First Philosophy

Featuring a “Students First” mentality, Keiser University is committed to providing the education students need to excel in their careers and their lives—whether that is in this PhD in Curriculum and Instruction or one of our many education doctoral degree programs. Our commitment to putting students first leads us to offer several learning options, including both on-campus and online delivery formats.

From curriculum theory and instructional design to educational research methods, pedagogy, and learning science, this doctoral program prepares scholars and educational practitioners to lead curriculum development, advance instructional practice, and contribute original research to the field of education.

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Know Your "WHY" Commit to Graduation

Pursue a career shaping the future of education through curriculum innovation and instructional excellence with a doctoral program designed to deepen your pedagogical expertise and research capabilities. Through advanced coursework and dissertation research, you will develop the scholarly foundation to lead meaningful change in educational systems.

From designing cutting-edge curricula and advancing instructional theory to mentoring educators and contributing to educational scholarship, you will develop a solid foundation for making a lasting impact on learners, teachers, and educational institutions at every level.

Program Outline

Online
 
Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction Degree Courses
 
The PhD in Curriculum and Instruction at Keiser University prepares educators and administrators for leadership positions throughout the education field. Focused on curriculum development, teacher education, instructional strategies, and educational practice, the instruction program equips doctoral students to navigate complex challenges in K-12 and higher education environments. Through research courses and core instruction coursework, students gain expertise in curriculum theory, assessment for student learning, and dissertation research while developing the analytical skills needed to drive meaningful change in learning environments.

Graduate Division Courses

Foundational Courses
Ethical and Legal Issues in Education/Leadership 3.0 credit hours
Policy, Politics, and Community Relations 3.0 credit hours
Leading Technology Innovation 3.0 credit hours
Classroom Management 3.0 credit hours
Differentiated Instruction 3.0 credit hours
Diversity, Ethical Decision Making, and Community Relations 3.0 credit hours
PhD Curriculum and Instruction Core Courses
Curriculum Design 3.0 credit hours
Instructional Design Theory 3.0 credit hours
Curriculum: Advanced Theory and Research 3.0 credit hours
Instruction: Advanced Theory and Research 3.0 credit hours
Assessment for Student Learning 3.0 credit hours
Curriculum and Instruction for Professional Development 3.0 credit hours
Research Courses
Quantitative Research I 3.0 credit hours
Quantitative Research II 3.0 credit hours
Qualitative Research 3.0 credit hours
Mixed Methods 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Research: Pre-Proposal and Literature Review 3.0 credit hours
Dissertation Courses
Dissertation 12 credit hours (6 courses at 2 credits each)

Note: Doctoral students must complete two residencies: one in the first year of the program and the second prior to dissertation.

  • Doctor of Philosophy Residency One
  • Doctor of Philosophy Residency Two

If you’re someone who cares about…

Improving how students learn, wanting to design better educational experiences, and seeking a career that shapes the future of education,

a PhD in curriculum and instruction might be your path forward.

Curriculum and instruction specialists combine passion for teaching with analytical thinking. They possess the dedication to research student learning, the creativity to develop effective instructional strategies, and the leadership skills to implement change across entire school districts or university systems.

Whether you focus on early childhood education, secondary education, teacher preparation, or educational technology, this doctoral program gives you the research methods and practical skills to transform educational practice.

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Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine

Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

Forbes

Best Online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (No. 2) & Organizational Psychology (No. 3)
(2024, Forbes)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

Career Pathways in Curriculum and Instruction

Graduates of Keiser University’s PhD program prepare to pursue leadership roles within education, including positions at accredited institutions, government agencies, and educational organizations. This doctoral degree supports current educators and educational researchers by enhancing their ability to conduct dissertation research, apply curriculum theory, evaluate teacher education programs, and address complex challenges across various aspects of the education system from early childhood through higher education.

  • Curriculum specialist for school districts
  • Instructional coordinator
  • Educational leadership positions in K-12 settings
  • Curriculum education administrator
  • University professor teaching courses in curriculum development
  • Director of curriculum and instruction
  • Instructional consultant
  • Educational researcher for government agencies
  • Program evaluation specialist
  • Mentor for teachers and teacher preparation programs
  • Chief academic officer
  • Dean of curriculum and instruction
  • Director of professional development
  • Education system policy analyst
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Gain Job-Ready Skills for Curriculum and Instruction Leadership:

  • Advanced curriculum development techniques
  • Strategic instructional design and assessment
  • Educational technology integration
  • Research literacy and data interpretation across qualitative methods
  • Statistical analysis for program evaluation
  • Curriculum theory and philosophical underpinnings
  • Instructional strategies for diverse learning environments
  • Leadership skills for teacher preparation programs
  • Policy evaluation and educational practice analysis

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

One Class at a Time

You have the option of taking just one or two classes at a time, allowing you to concentrate on learning while balancing your education with work, family, and other responsibilities. With our “students first” focus and small classes, you’ll receive personal attention from your instructors.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Scholarships and financial aid are available for students who qualify.

See What Sets Keiser Graduate School Apart

At Keiser University Graduate School, you’ll find more than an advanced degree; you’ll find a supportive community dedicated to your success. Students benefit from personalized attention, meaningful faculty relationships, and a culture where they are valued as individuals, not just numbers. With guidance, encouragement, and resources designed to help you achieve your goals, Keiser provides an environment where you can grow professionally, develop personally, and confidently take the next step in your career. The focus is on your learning and your success because your future matters.

Student Testimonials

At Keiser University, we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

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📞 Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-753-4737

Keiser University’s doctoral programs in education prepare experienced professionals for advanced career opportunities through rigorous PhD study. With flexible online options, our curriculum and instruction program aligns with your educational leadership goals and career paths. Whether you aim to become a university professor, lead curriculum development initiatives, or work as an educational researcher, Keiser provides the advanced education and research methods needed to make lasting contributions to student learning and the broader education system.

Apply Now

Top Questions About Earning a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction

Can I complete a PhD in curriculum and instruction online at Keiser University?

Yes. Keiser University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction is available fully online, allowing doctoral students to balance work, personal life, and degree progress. Online students receive the same quality instruction, faculty support, and research resources as on-campus students.

What distinguishes a master's degree from a PhD program in education?

Master’s programs provide foundational knowledge in curriculum development and instructional strategies for classroom teachers. PhD programs prepare graduates for educational leadership, university professor positions, and educational researcher roles requiring dissertation research, advanced research methods, and expertise in curriculum theory. The PhD program qualifies graduates for faculty member positions at accredited institutions and senior leadership roles influencing entire education systems.

What career paths can I pursue with a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction?

Graduates pursue positions as curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators, educational leadership roles in K-12 or higher education, university professors, educational researchers at government agencies, program evaluation specialists, directors of teacher preparation programs, assessment coordinators, and chief academic officers. The median salary for these career opportunities varies based on experience, location, and specific educational leadership positions.

Admission Transfer Credits

Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include:

  • Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses.
  • Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval.
  • Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs.
  • Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis.
  • Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution.
  • Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean.

Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy

Is financial aid available for online doctoral students?

Absolutely. Online doctoral students access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including scholarships and tuition assistance programs. Keiser offers scholarship options for eligible military, teachers, first responders/emergency management professionals, and previous graduates. Simply ask your Financial Aid Officer for more information during the financial aid process. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ.

Are these programs accredited?

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of graduate degree programs. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.

How long does completing a PhD in curriculum and instruction take?

The Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction typically requires 30 to 48 months for completion. Program length depends on transfer credits, course load per semester, dissertation research progress, and whether students attend full-time or part-time.

What costs come with earning this doctoral degree?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify, which can affect total tuition cost. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions counselor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses are required in the PhD program?

The curriculum and instruction specialization includes foundational courses covering ethical issues, policy, educational technology, curriculum design, and classroom management. Core PhD courses address instructional design theory, differentiated instruction, advanced curriculum theory, instruction theory, assessment for student learning, and professional development. Research courses cover quantitative research methods, qualitative research approaches, mixed methods, and advanced research preparation for dissertation work. Students complete 12 credit hours of dissertation courses under faculty guidance.

Can I teach at the university level with this degree?

Yes. The PhD in Curriculum and Instruction prepares graduates for university professor positions and faculty member roles at accredited institutions. Doctoral students develop teaching experience, research interests, and publication records during the program. Graduates can pursue positions teaching curriculum development, instructional strategies, teacher education, educational technology, or research methods courses. Many also combine teaching with educational leadership roles as department chairs, program directors, or deans.

This Program is Available at the Following Campuses

Clearwater

16120 U.S. Highway 19 N., Clearwater, Florida 33764

Clearwater
Daytona Beach

1800 Business Park Boulevard Daytona Beach, Florida 32114

Daytona Beach
Flagship

2600 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33409

Flagship
Fort Lauderdale

1500 Northwest 49th Street Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309

Fort Lauderdale
Fort Myers

9100 Forum Corporate Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33905

Fort Myers
Graduate School

1600 W. Commercial Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309

Graduate School
Jacksonville

6430 Southpoint Pkwy Jacksonville, Florida 32216

Jacksonville
Lakeland

2400 Interstate Drive Lakeland, Florida 33805

Lakeland
Melbourne

900 South Babcock Street Melbourne, Florida 32901

Melbourne
Miami

2101 NW 117th Ave. Miami, Florida 33172

Miami
Naples

3909 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, Florida 34112

Naples
New Port Richey

6300 US-19 North, New Port Richey, Florida 34652

New Port Richey
Ocala

1601 NE 25th Avenue, Suite 602, Ocala, FL 34470

Ocala
Online Education

1900 W. Commercial Blvd, Suite 100 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Online Education
Orlando

5600 Lake Underhill Road Orlando, Florida 32807

Orlando
Pembroke Pines

1640 SW 145th Avenue Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027

Pembroke Pines
Port St. Lucie

9400 SW Discovery Way, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34987

Port St. Lucie
San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua

Gasolinera UNO 2c. al Sur San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua

San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua
Sarasota

6151 Lake Osprey Drive Sarasota, Florida 34240

Sarasota
Tallahassee

1700 Halstead Boulevard, Building 2 Tallahassee, Florida 32309

Tallahassee
Tampa

5002 West Waters Avenue Tampa, Florida 33634

Tampa
West Palm Beach

2085 Vista Parkway West Palm Beach, Florida 33411

West Palm Beach