What is a curriculum director: Job description information

Curriculum directors, a role that may share similarities with that of instructional coordinators, take on a number of responsibilities. Duties and responsibilities include:

• Establish instructional objectives to develop course curriculum
• Work with educators, administrators and other curriculum specialists to develop educational programs for students and support the implementation of new courses or programs by providing materials, resources and training
• Analyze current courses and recommend necessary changes to meet objectives
• Monitor student performance to ensure that goals are being met
• Create professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators
• Develop policies and procedures related to curriculum guides, standards and academic regulations
• Collaborate with faculty on instructional strategies, such as classroom activities, assessments and technology integration
• Maintain an accurate record of curriculum-based activities conducted throughout the school year

Depending on the specific position, a curriculum director may have additional duties and responsibilities, such as researching best practices in education, implementing new technologies into curricula or collaborating with external organizations to promote educational initiatives.

Because a director of curriculum and instruction has a broad scope of duties and responsibilities, many skills are needed to succeed in this role. These can include:

• Deep knowledge of educational theory, instructional design and research
• An understanding of state and federal regulations related to educational programs
• Excellent written and oral communication
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to collaborate with faculty, administrators and other stakeholders
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making and time management skills

Ultimately, these skills align toward a common goal: motivating students and faculty toward meaningful change, all while being an instructional designer who can develop effective curricula.

Becoming a curriculum director can be both a rewarding and highly individual experience. Here’s where to begin.

Certifications are not required to become a curriculum director, but they can help demonstrate knowledge and expertise. There are industry certifications such as:

• National Board for Professional Teaching Standards — According to the website, this certification is designed to “retain and recognize accomplished teachers and to generate ongoing improvement in schools nationwide.”
• International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards — This certification aims to provide professionals a better understanding of autism and other neurodivergencies.

Additionally, educators looking to work in public schools, from preschool to high school, need a state-issued credential. In some states, curriculum directors must be certified as school administrators or hold a principal certification. It’s essential to research the specific state requirements for the job you are applying for and ensure you have the necessary credentials.

University of Phoenix programs do not directly prepare students for these certifications. This content is being provided for informational purposes only regarding the curriculum development field.

Experience is an important factor when becoming a curriculum director. It can come from teaching, researching, writing curricula or other related duties, such as developing lesson plans and assessments. Several years of experience are usually needed before stepping into a director role.

Experience working with technology in the classroom can also be beneficial, as curriculum directors must be able to create and use technology-based learning tools. For example, University of Phoenix offers a course called Using Technology for Teaching and Learning, in which students evaluate technology use and technology integration for teaching and learning.

Students will review the considerations and responsibilities of using and maintaining technology in today’s schools, including safety, ethics, resources and financial needs. It’s also necessary to have experience managing teams and working with individuals at all levels, from faculty to administrators.

University of Phoenix can help you prepare to become a curriculum director by teaching sought-after skills in this field. Relevant online education programs range from continuing teacher education to bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs. They include the following:

• Post-Master’s Certificate in Education Technology: In this program, students explore topics in technology, curriculum design and instructional leadership to inform change within organizations. They also evaluate various media and technology to determine implementation and integration into learning organizations.
• Post-Master’s Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction: This program equips students with skills to lead the creation of educational coursework, instructional techniques and student assessments. Students learn to create models for instruction and delivery using foundational theories of curriculum design as well as evaluate the tools necessary to inform decisions and lead curriculum changes.
• Master of Arts in Education/Curriculum and Instruction: Students learn to synthesize multiple theories of curriculum and instruction to serve as leaders in these areas within a school or school district, analyze assessment data to make informed decisions for continuous improvement of instructional programs, and create innovative strategies and incorporate technology to enhance student learning.