Instructional Design and Learning Technology

Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology

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30 Credit Hours

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Up To 12 Hours

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Cost per Hour

$636

Per Credit Hour
EKU Online > Online Instructional Design and Learning Technology Degree & Certificates > Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology

Become an Architect of Exceptional Learning Experiences

Innovative instructional programs are increasingly critical to success in a variety of fields – from education to industry. EKU’s 100% online master of science in instructional design and learning technology (IDLT) prepares you to integrate current and emerging technology as you learn to design, facilitate and evaluate effective learning programs. Graduates leave the program with a professional portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments and are prepared to take on key roles in the growing field of instructional design.

Career Outlook

Jobs such as Instructional Coordinators, are poised to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031 – a rate considered by the BLS to be an average growth. Additionally, Training and Development Specialists are projected to grow 8% – much faster than average – within the same time period.

— U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 

Common Job Titles for Instructional Design Graduates

Instructional designers work in many diverse fields such as large corporations, higher education, traditional manufacturing environments, positions within state and national governments, nonprofit organizations, as well as military and military/government contractors.

>> Learn More About Career Opportunities

Job Titles Include:

  •  Instructional Coordinator
  • Technical Writer
  •  Training and Development Specialist
  • Curriculum designers
  • Training manager

 

Where Have EKU Instructional Design Graduates Worked?

EKU instructional design graduates work in a variety of fields and positions.
>> Learn More About Career Opportunities

Employers Include:

  • Eastern Kentucky University Training Resource Center
  • Fidelity Investments Learning Experience Designer

EKU Online Career Services

Career planning is tough, but with EKU you don’t have to tackle the process alone.

The EKU Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all of your career and professional development needs.

Services include:

  • Creating/Updating Your Resume and Cover Letter
  • Interviewing Tips and Coaching
  • Career Documents Review
  • Job Search

>>Learn More About Career Services

 

Talk to an advisor or download our free program guide
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Benefits
Certificates
Internship FAQ
Benefits of EKU Online

Students will acquire not only specialized foundational and theoretical knowledge of the field, but also hone relevant, industry-accepted skills while making connections with current practitioners. EKU blends academic and professional preparation through course topics such as multimedia for learning, making data-driven decisions, online learning design, and training the modern workforce.

Program benefits include:

  • Accelerated 8-week terms
  • No GRE required
  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • Complete your degree in as little as 18 months
  • Assemble a professional portfolio as you complete your coursework
  • Internship opportunities and the chance to network with professionals in the field
  • Generous credit transfer policy
  • Reduced tuition for active duty military members and their spouses
  • Free online tutoring and career services assistance
  • Free access to Articulate 360 – a savings of $1,200 per year
  • Dedicated advisors who provide personalized graduation plans
  • Ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the best universities offering online degrees
Certificates

Choose between two specialty certificates that can be completed for no additional cost as you work toward your degree, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Options include:

  • Online Learning Design
    Create digital learning products and tools for use in everything from online college courses to corporate workforce training. Learn how to plan for and develop content, structure, timing, pedagogical strategies, learning activity sequence, and the type and frequency of assessments required.
  • User Experience Design
    Create products that provide relevant and meaningful user experiences and interactions. Learn how to use graphic design principles to develop engaging, effective and easy-to-use interfaces for learning, game, software systems training materials and more.

Instructional Design & Learning Technology Internship FAQs

What is the IDLT Internship?

Students in Eastern Kentucky University’s online master’s degree in instructional design and learning technology are required to complete a field internship – IDL 820. This 3-credit hour course is designed to give students the opportunity to collaborate with peers and mentors who have practical experience to share.

Why complete an internship?

Completing an internship as you work towards your master’s degree in instructional design and learning technology provides the opportunity to:

  • Put what you’ve learned into practice
  • Network with other professionals in your field
  • Gain valuable experience that can be used to build your resume
  • Enhance your professional portfolio

When can IDLT students complete their internship?

Students in EKU’s online IDLT program need to complete 3 program courses, have a 3.0 or higher GPA and secure the consent of the department before they begin their internship.

What are the options for completing an IDLT internship?

Students have the option of completing one of three types of internships:

  1. Placement Option 1 – Students complete an internship at their current place of employment. Students will identify a practical instructional experience that revolves around the design and development of learning objects.
  2. Placement Option 2 – Students complete an internship at an organization of their choosing. Students will select an organization with an established EKU relationship, or they can identify their own placement and negotiate the terms of the internship.
  3. Placement Option 3 – Students will complete an academic-focused internship with EKU’s Instructional Design Center. Students will assist EKU instructional designers create courses and training, develop multimedia content, and perform work in a selected learning management system. This work may include course design, construction, and essential production tasks.

 

What is Instructional Design?

Learn about the new Master of Science in Instructional Design & Learning Technology with Dr. Nedim Slijepcevic at Eastern Kentucky University Online.

Curriculum

The IDLT program offers a systematic approach to improving learning outcomes by developing quality instructional products and experiences. Instructional design and learning technology courses include multimedia for learning, making data-driven decisions, online learning design, and training the modern workforce.

Degree Requirements

A total of 30 credits are required to graduate.

View the instructional design and learning technology program degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Transfer Credits

Students may transfer up to 12 hours of credit from accredited institutions. 

Previously earned credits must be reviewed upon admittance to EKU for appropriate articulation. Learn more about transferring to EKU.

Sample Courses

For a full list of course descriptions, see section 7 of the University graduate catalog.

IDL 800 – Introduction to the Profession (3)
A comprehensive introduction to the process, theories and profession of Instructional Design.

IDL 801 – Instructional Design Mastery (3)
Application of design theory, implementation of instructional lessons, selection of suitable instructional technology, evaluation of learners and instructional products, and instruction implementation.

IDL 802 – Making Data-Driven Decisions (3)
Data collection and analysis techniques involved in making sound instructional/training and development decisions in organizations.

IDL 810 – Multimedia for Learning (3)
Exploration, design, and creation of multimedia products that support sound instructional practices.

IDL 811 – Online Learning Design (3)
Exploration of the modern principles and practices that drive effective online learning, analysis of structure and interaction of online courses to create meaningful online experiences.

IDL 812 – Game Design for Learning (3)
Application of game design in creating instructional materials, development of various gaming concepts, and experiences in gamified learning. 

IDL 813 – Instruction for Diverse Learners (3)
Exploration of design learning experiences while considering diverse audiences and environments, learner characteristics, training theories, and deployment of tested instructional strategies to improve learning outcomes. 

IDL 814 – Training the Modern Workforce (3)
Examining professional development components of workforce training, training programs, and responding to the changing organizational needs.

IDL 821 – Portfolio and Exit Review (3)
Culmination of studies and experiences in IDLT. Creation of a professional web portfolio that showcases student’s most significant work and internship experiences.

IDL 839 – Field Internship (3)
The guided internship is designed to afford IDLT students opportunities to put what they have learned into practice in highly successful environments collaborating with peers and mentors who have practical experience to share.

IDL 890 – Independent Study (3)
Faculty Guided Independent research, which allows students to design a research problem and make experimental observations and conclusions. Students will perform in-depth research pertinent to IDLT and craft a project based on their investigation.

DES 850 – Graphic Design for Learning (3)
Introduction to the elements and principles of design, methods, tools and software used in the field of graphic design.

DES 851 – User Experience Design (3)
Introduction to the processes and methods of User Experience Design, including user research, contextual design, design thinking, ideation, and prototyping of a service or product.         

ENG 840 – Technical Writing (3)
Focuses on workplace writing in networked environments for technical, scientific, business, and other professional contexts. Emphasizes context and user analysis, data analysis and display, project planning, document management, usability, ethics, and research.

PSY 790 – Tests and Measurement (3)
Study of measurement principles with application in psychology, business, industry, and government. Interpretation, use, and evaluation of measurement and job analysis methods. Reliability, validity, utility, ethical/legal concerns
are examined.                  

Enrollment

Amanda Stoddard

Amanda Stoddard

Enrollment Advisor

Call or email Enrollment Advisor Amanda Stoddard for information about the EKU Online Instructional Design and Learning Technology Master’s Degree program.

Contact Info:
859-622-5826
Amanda.Stoddard@eku.edu

Application Deadlines

 

Term Application Deadline Classes Begin
Fall A July 5 August
Fall B August 31 October
Spring A November 30 January
Spring B January 31 March
Summer A April 5 May
Summer B  May 31 June

 

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission to the Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology program must:

  • Meet all admission requirements of the Graduate School
  • Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree
  • Have a 2.5 overall undergraduate GPA. Applicants who do not meet the GPA requirement for admission must submit: Official GRE scores to be considered for probationary admission
  • Applicants with master’s degree can submit:
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Write a letter of intent explaining why applicant wants to pursue this degree

International Students: Applications from international students are encouraged. Refer to the University admission guidelines: gradschool.eku.edu/

Additional Contact Information

Admissions: 859-622-2106
Academic Testing: 859-622-1281
Big E Central (Financial Aid & Student Account Services): 859-622-2361
Military & Veterans Affairs Office: 859-622-2345

Student Success

I chose EKU because I am a unique student with unique needs, and EKU provides an avenue for students like me to succeed.

Jason TateEKU Online Student

Online Military Students

EKU Online offers veterans and active duty military students an unparalleled online learning experience that provides accessibility, convenience and flexibility.

Special Tuition for Active Duty* Military
Eastern Kentucky University offers reduced tuition expenses to $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and $325 per credit hour for graduate courses to all service members currently serving on active duty.

*Active duty is defined as on federal orders for 180 days or more.

“I’d like to thank the EKU College of Justice & Safety for the opportunity to complete my degree online. It’s very user-friendly, and everyone has bent over backwards to make this happen.”

– 1LT Heath Bergmann, EKU Online Graduate

Heath Bergmann
  • “I can confidently say that — as someone who doesn’t even live in the United States — EKU’s online program has been extremely accommodating and flexible. I can discuss advising appointments over email, and I can have my textbooks shipped to my address overseas.” – Sydney Garner Lewis
  • “After the birth of our first child, I knew I needed to go back and finish what I started,” said McKenzie. “I was happy that I could pick up where I left off at EKU even though I lived in a different state.” – EKU Online student and mom
  • “I chose EKU because I am a unique student with unique needs, and EKU provides an avenue for students like me to succeed.” – EKU Online Psychology student Jason Tate
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