fbpx

Best 15 Master’s in Instructional Design Programs in 2024

January 26, 2024 | Admin

Masters in Instructional Design
Best masters programs in instructional design badge

Instructional design is a dynamic field that integrates technology and educational theories to create effective and engaging learning experiences. Master’s degree programs in instructional design provide a comprehensive understanding of learning theories, design processes, and the latest technological tools used to shape modern education. This article will explore instructional design master’s degree programs, discussing what they entail, potential career paths, and how to choose the right program to meet your professional goals.

Is a Masters in Instructional Design the Right Degree for You? 

Instructional designers develop and implement curriculums, recommend teaching techniques, recommend the use of newer technologies, and perform a wide variety of other duties. Instructional designers, sometimes referred to as instructional coordinators, also analyze learning needs, and know how to evaluate effectiveness and how to best implement solutions.

Northeastern University stresses the importance of honing soft skills and practical skills, in addition to skills in technology skills and analytical skills. The best programs in instructional design train students to gain the skills necessary to succeed in this career field across a variety of industries.

Top 5 Masters in Instructional Design Programs

Rank School Location
1Valdosta State University Valdosta, Georgia
2University of Central Florida Orlando, Florida
3Fort Hays State University Hays, Kansas
4Lamar University Beaumont, Texas
5Sam Houston State UniversityHuntsville, Texas

What Can I Do with an Instructional Design Master’s Degree?

Having a master’s degree in instructional design opens up numerous professional opportunities. Graduates can pursue various roles such as instructional coordinators, learning experience designers, curriculum developers, and e-learning specialists. These positions can be found in diverse sectors such as academia, corporate, healthcare, military, and more. To find the best instructional design master’s programs, consider your career goals and how they align with the curriculum and program outcomes. Whether you desire to work in higher education or corporate training, the practical skills and knowledge gained from these programs are invaluable for navigating the evolving landscapes of learning and technology.

Best 15 Masters in Instructional Design

1

Valdosta State University

  • Valdosta, Georgia
Stage for college graduation outdoors with faculty

Valdosta State University offers a master’s degree program for students interested in a career in instructional design. The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Technology features three study track options, which are the P12 School Library Media, P12 Technology Applications, and Corporate.

Students pursuing the P12 School Library Media track prepare for a career as a school media specialist. Students enrolled in the P12 Technology Applications track prepare for a career as a technology coordinator or an instructional technologist across a variety of school settings. Students in the Corporate track prepare for careers as instructional designers and trainers in corporate, higher education, and non-profit settings.

School Overview

Tuition: $230 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP, NCATE
Visit School Website
2

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, Florida

Choose from three concentration options when considering earning a Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology degree from the University of Central Florida. The Master of Arts degree program offers the Educational Technology track, the Instructional Systems track, and the eLearning track. All three options are available either online or in a hybrid format.

Students develop and enhance their ability to analyze and design training and educational programs, focuses on enhancing independent thinking skills, and to use current and emerging technologies.

School Overview

Tuition: $288.16 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Visit School Website
3

Fort Hays State University

  • Hays, Kansas

The Master of Science in Instructional Technology at Fort Hays State University prepares teachers, and other professionals for a career in instructional technology. Students gain skills in areas such as educational systems, business, and industry in a modern, global technological society. Students gain advanced knowledge of multimedia tools, and strategies in integrating multimedia in educational and training environments.

School Overview

Tuition: $298.55 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Visit School Website
4

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, Texas

Lamar University offers an online Master of Education in Educational Technology Leadership. Learn to integrate technology into the classroom, discover how people learn, and how to best design instructional systems and instructional materials for optimal learning through technology.

The program consists of 36 credit hours of study.

School Overview

Tuition: $300 per credit hour
Accreditation: NCATE
Visit School Website
5

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, Texas

Sam Houston State University offers a Master of Education in Instructional Systems Design and Technology. The 30-credit hour program consists of a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to practice effective distance communication, and to design quality distance learning instruction.

Students take courses that provides knowledge and skills in the infrastructure, hardware, and software of a system, along with the courses that provide the foundation for learning and design theories and applications.

School Overview

Tuition: est. $355.66 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP
Visit School Website
6

Emporia State University

  • Emporia, Kansas

The master’s program in Instructional Design and Technology at Emporia State University prepares graduates for careers that demand expertise in the design, development, and implementation of instructional resources. These areas of expertise, along with the expertise gained in the evaluation of educational resources prepares students to work in education, healthcare, military, business, or other organizations.

Students choose the thesis or non-thesis option.

School Overview

Tuition: est. $375.51 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Visit School Website
7

Bowling Green State University

  • Bowling Green, Ohio

The Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology at Bowling Green State University is offered in an online format. Students can complete the 30-credit hour program in as little as 18 months.

The curriculum covers topics such as instructional systems design, learning intervention and evaluation, and interactive learning systems.

School Overview

Tuition: est. $478.33 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission, NCATE
Visit School Website
8

Saint Leo University

  • St. Leo, Florida

Saint Leo University offers an online Master of Science in Instructional Design program that provides students with an advanced study in the systematic design of instruction. Students learn to design, develop, implement, and to evaluate instructional experiences in a variety of settings. Examples of these settings includes adult learning, higher education, and the military.

School Overview

Tuition: $510 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Visit School Website
9

Georgia State University

  • Atlanta, Georgia

The Georgia State University Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology provides the necessary skills and knowledge for students to work in a career as an instructional designer, or technologist in industry or non-profit agencies, or for government organizations.

Students take courses on instructional systems theory, processes, and various learning environments in the 36-credit hour program.

School Overview

Tuition: est. $530.66 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Visit School Website
10

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Charlotte, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a Master of Education in the Learning, Design and Technology program that prepares students to perform the comprehensive duties required of instructional design professionals. Some skills include the ability to analyze, create, implement, evaluate and manage instructional and performance solutions.

The 33-credit hour program is offered online, and prepares graduates to work in educational, corporate, military, or government organizations. The program is Quality Matters certified in Program Design and Learner Success. This Online Program Design Certification recognizes programs that are designed around measurable learning objectives or competencies.

School Overview

Tuition: $465 per credit hour for non NC residents
Accreditation: CAEP
Visit School Website
11

University of Massachusetts Boston

  • Boston, Massachusetts

UMass Boston’s MEd Program in Instructional Design offers a practical master’s degree that is ideal for career professionals engaged in the education, training, and development of adult learners in the workplace. This multi-disciplinary academic program provides students with a dynamic learning process through a comprehensive course of study that gives equal importance to both the planning and the delivery of adult instruction.

Applications of instructional design can be seen today in business and industry; in schools and colleges, government agencies, and the military; in health care organizations, religious institutions, and professional societies. Using the principles and practices of adult education, the program’s theoretical and applied courses concentrate in three areas:

  • Building a foundation and conceptual framework for the instructional design process
  • Developing instructional strategies and skills to facilitate adult learning
  • Using educational media and technology to enhance learning

In addition to their master’s degree, they also have two graduate certificates in Instructional Design: Instructional and Learning Design and Instructional Technology.

School Overview

Tuition: $575 per credit hour
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Visit School Website
12

University of Alabama

  • Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a Master of Arts in Instructional Technology program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to increase their understanding of the role of technology in teaching, learning, design, and training. Students learn to use current and emerging technologies and instructional strategies in order to create an effective learning environment.

Students complete 30 credit hours of study, including a digital portfolio as the comprehensive examination.

School Overview

Tuition: $615 per credit hour
Accreditation: NCATE
Visit School Website
13

Northeastern University

  • Boston, Massachusetts

The Master of Education in eLearning and Instructional Design program at Northeastern University prepares students for a career that includes analyzing learners’ needs and goals, to design and facilitate learning experiences that draws creatively upon the most-recent research in the science and art of eLearning, puts into action learning principles, and high-impact practices within various online and mobile learning scenarios. There are additional skills and knowledge gained through this innovative program, including hands-on experiences, that prepares graduates for a rewarding career.

The program is offered in an online or hybrid format.

School Overview

Tuition: $621 per credit hour
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Visit School Website
14

University of Tampa

  • Tampa, Florida

The Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology at the University of Tampa provides a multidisciplinary area of study which appeals to students from a variety of disciplines. The program offers students the opportunity to customize their program, based on individualized interests and goals.

Students complete courses in areas that includes theory of learning and cognition, systematic instructional design, and multimedia design and development. Students also engage in hands-on learning experiences.

School Overview

Tuition: $655 per credit hour
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Visit School Website
15

Franklin University

  • Columbus, Ohio

The Franklin University Masters in Instructional Design & Learning Technology program guides students through the process of learning to analyze learning needs, to evaluate effectiveness, and to design solutions, along with additional skills required for this innovative career.

Students complete 32 credit hours of instruction, taking courses such as Principles of Human Performance Technology, and Learning Management Strategies.

Members of the military receive a tuition discount.

School Overview

Tuition: $670 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Visit School Website

Instructional Design Master’s Degree Salary and Career Outcomes

The return on investment for an instructional design master’s degree is compelling. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for instructional coordinators was $63,740 in May 2021. It’s important to note that salary estimates can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. With the continued growth of digital learning platforms, the demand for instructional design professionals is expected to rise.

Benefits of Earning an Instructional Design Master’s Degree Online

Earning an instructional design master’s degree online offers flexibility and convenience. This mode of learning is particularly suitable for working professionals, individuals with family commitments, or those with other responsibilities. The best online instructional design master’s programs allow you to access course materials anytime and from anywhere, enabling a balance between your professional, academic, and personal obligations. Moreover, online programs provide exposure to various digital tools and platforms, which is valuable experience for aspiring instructional designers.

Instructional Design Master’s Program Curriculum

Instructional design master’s programs typically consist of core and elective courses. Core courses often cover instructional theories, learning principles, and design models. They may also delve into topics like multimedia design, project management, and evaluation strategies. Elective courses offer specialization in areas such as e-learning, mobile learning, or game-based learning. When comparing the best instructional design master’s programs, it is important to carefully review the curriculum and ensure it aligns with your career goals.

Here are some possible concentrations and specializations you may pursue in one of the best online instructional design master’s programs:

  • Adult Learning
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Game-based Learning
  • Healthcare Education
  • K-12 Education
  • Museum Education
  • Nonprofit Education
  • Technical Training

However, it is crucial to note that these concentrations may vary depending on the institution and program you enroll in. Therefore, it is important to do thorough research to find the best instructional design master’s program that meets your academic needs, interests, and career goals.

Can I Work While Attending an Online Instructional Design Master’s Program?

Balancing work and studies can be challenging, but it is feasible, especially with online programs. The best online instructional design master’s programs often offer asynchronous classes, allowing you to complete your coursework at your convenience. This flexibility enables you to continue working while pursuing your master’s degree. However, effective time management is crucial to successfully balance both commitments.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Options

Affording a master’s degree can seem daunting, but there are several scholarships and financial aid options available to ease this financial burden. Many universities offer scholarships, and external organizations provide grants and fellowships specifically for students in instructional design programs. Additionally, federal and state aid, student loans, and work-study opportunities can further assist in funding your education. When considering the best instructional design master’s programs, it is advisable to research potential financial aid opportunities.

Ranking Methodology

We searched schools across the country to develop our list of the best master’s in instructional design programs. We narrowed our list to the top schools, and listed the schools by the cost of tuition.

Do you need help with selecting the right college or university? We can help you, based on the program that you select.

If you would like to have your school included in our rankings, please contact us and we will help you with that information.

Find the program that’s right for you

Whether you’re trying to start your career or make a big change, we can help you find the perfect school to help you reach your goals.

Woman in graduation cap and gown
Scroll to Top