Author
Home > Education > What is the Difference Between Curriculum and Program?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Curriculum and Program?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The terms "curriculum" and "program" are often used interchangeably in the context of education, but they have distinct meanings and characteristics:

  • Curriculum refers to the content and learning objectives of a course or educational program. It is the set of courses and learning objectives designed to achieve specific learning outcomes. Curriculum is typically prescribed and set by the educational institution and focuses mainly on the academic aspects of learning.
  • Program refers to the specific set of courses and activities that make up a particular educational experience. An educational program is a set of organized activities and experiences that a student is exposed to, designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Programs can be adapted to fit the individual student's needs and preferences, and they often include a range of experiences that help students develop the necessary skills to become well-rounded, successful individuals.

In summary, the curriculum is the content that a program has to offer, while the program encompasses the entire structure and management of the educational experience, including the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment techniques.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Curriculum and Program?
  • Comparative Table: Curriculum vs Program

    • Comparative Table: Curriculum vs Program

    The table below outlines the differences between curriculum and program:

    Difference Curriculum Program
    Definition A curriculum is a set of planned Brightspace learning experiences and assessments that faculty members intend to facilitate student learning. A program is a component of some curricula, comprising a self-contained sequence or system of study.
    Focus Curriculum focuses on teaching and learning, including mission, program outcomes, and course-level outcomes. Program focuses on specific courses and experiences within the curriculum, often with a particular focus or theme.
    Scope Curriculum encompasses the entire set of learning experiences and assessments within an educational institution or program. Program is a subset of the curriculum, focusing on a specific area of study or set of experiences.
    Relationship - Programs are components of curricula, providing structures and vehicles for faculty to facilitate learning.

    In summary, curriculum refers to the overall set of learning experiences and assessments within an educational institution or program, while a program is a component of the curriculum, focusing on specific courses and experiences within the curriculum.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.