What Is a Master's in Instructional Design and Technology?

A master’s in instructional design and technology is an advanced graduate degree focused on the art and science of designing effective learning experiences for all types of learners.

This degree blends educational theory with the latest digital tools and strategies to help professionals create, implement, and evaluate training programs and educational content across industries. Whether you pursue an instructional design master's online or in some other format, with the goal of designing school curriculum or training and development materials, the curriculum is designed to equip you with practical skills to meet today’s learning challenges.

Understanding Instructional Design and Technology

So, what is instructional design and technology in the context of a master’s program? At its core, it’s about applying instructional theory, learning science, and technology to create engaging, effective educational materials. This includes:

• Designing e-learning modules and multimedia content
• Using data to assess learner performance
• Applying emerging technologies to training environments
• Understanding how adults and diverse learners acquire knowledge

The online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology at Bellevue University prepares graduates to lead projects that transform traditional and digital learning. The program is designed to meet the increasing demand from the business and educational community for professionals skilled in the design and development of learning experiences, including e-learning.

What You’ll Learn in an Instructional Design and Technology Graduate Program

Students in a master's in instructional design and technology (IDT) program typically explore topics such as:

• Learning models and instructional design and development
• Multimedia design and development
• E-learning authoring tools and platforms
• Project management and applied leadership for instructional design
• Data-driven evaluation and assessment methods
• Emerging technologies like AR, VR, and AI in learning

These skills ensure graduates can confidently design, deliver, and evaluate educational and training materials in schools, businesses, nonprofits, and beyond.

Our faculty make an impact and experience a process of self-discovery because they’re empowered to try new approaches.

– Mary Dobransky, Ed.D., M.S., Dean, College of Science and Technology

Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology An instructional design degree is especially valuable today as organizations move more of their training and education programs online. Earning an instructional design master's offers multiple benefits:

• Prepares you to address evolving workplace training needs
• Equips you with in-demand technical skills for digital learning design
• Increases your career mobility and earning potential
• Builds leadership and project management expertise
• Enables you to design inclusive and accessible learning materials

Bellevue University’s IDT program's goal is to enable professionals working in a variety of fields to enhance their educational and career goals by attaining the skills needed to analyze, design, and implement instructional design and technology projects. Bellevue’s program is designed to develop students into professionals who possess a unique blend of skills, including leadership, project management, collaboration, technical skills, and the ability to bring out the best in people.

Every Bellevue University degree program provides students from diverse backgrounds with the skills they need to achieve the educational and career goals they have for themselves and their families,”“We’re proud to ensure equitable outcomes for students from all backgrounds and are committed to creating a strong and inclusive student experience.

– Dr. Mary Hawkins, President, Bellevue University

Career Paths with a Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology

Graduates of a master's instructional design and technology program can pursue diverse roles, including:

• Instructional Designer
• E-Learning Developer
• Learning Experience Designer
• Training Manager or Director
• Curriculum Developer
• Educational Technology Specialist

Industries hiring for these positions include corporate training, higher education, healthcare, government, and nonprofit organizations. With an online master's in instructional design and technology, students can balance study with professional commitments, preparing for advanced roles without pausing their careers.

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn a master’s in instructional design?
A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors—how many credits you take per term, and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). A master’s in instructional design & technology (IDT) typically requires 36 credits.

Here’s how Bellevue University’s cohort Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology works:

• Bellevue’s Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology program requires 36 graduate credits and is designed for working professionals.
• When enrolled full-time, cohort participants take one 3-credit course at a time every eight weeks (6 credits per term), with short breaks in between, enabling them to balance education with work and personal commitments.
• The cohort model encourages collaboration and peer support throughout the program.
• At a pace of 2 courses per term, it is possible to finish in 6 terms or about 1-1/2 to 2 years if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to the cohort degree plan.
• Bellevue has 4 terms per year: fall, winter, spring & summer.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a master’s in instructional design program?
A: Depending on the school, you may need to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam. (Bellevue University does not require test scores.) You will typically be required to 1) Apply, 2) submit all official transcripts from previous accredited colleges, and 3) submit grades from your most recent 60 credit hours from a conferred bachelor’s degree or from a completed master’s degree. 4) Some programs may require a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documentation.

See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in instructional design and technology program?
A: Yes, professionals with a master’s in instructional design and technology may pursue additional certifications such as:

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)
• Adobe Captivate Specialist
• One of several project management certifications through the Project Management Institute (PMI)
• An ATD (Association for Talent Development) certification credential offered by the ATD Certification Institute.

Credentials deepen your expertise and enhance career opportunities. These credentials can help demonstrate specialized skills in e-learning tools, instructional strategy, and project management.

Q: Can I earn a master’s in instructional design online?
A: Yes, you can earn a Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology at Bellevue University 100% online. Learn more about how online learning at Bellevue University works.

Q: Are there scholarships available for online master’s in instructional design students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid. You can also research scholarships specific to your interests or your affiliations. Apply for scholarships here.

Explore the online Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology at Bellevue University

Ready to take your career to the next level? Bellevue University’s Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology program combines practical skills with cutting-edge theory to prepare you for leadership in instructional design and technology. Learn online, study with a cohort of peers, on your own schedule, and gain the expertise to create effective, innovative learning solutions.

Discover how our online program can help you achieve your goals.

Explore the Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology today and transform the way the world learns.

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