M.A. in Instructional Design & Learning Technologies (Online)

The Master's Degree in Instructional Design and Learning Technologies is a fully online program that offers an in-depth exploration of instructional design principles, learning technology tools, and strategies to create effective educational experiences for diverse audiences.  Individuals who work in K-12 schools, colleges and universities as well as private industry, corporate training, and other instructional settings will find this program useful for increasing their overall effectiveness in the field of instructional design and learning technologies.

This program is replacing the MA in Educational Technology.  The first opportunity to apply to this program is Fall 2024.  In addition, effective calendar year 2025, this program will move to a fall term only admit process.  To start in this program in 2025 or beyond, the application priority deadline to have all materials in will be March 15 and the hard deadline for applications will be May 15.  Applications submitted by these deadlines will be reviewed as they are received.

Because this is a fully online program, students who are not classified as residents of Michigan are automatically eligible for the non-resident online program tuition rate.  This rate is approximately 30% below the normal non-resident rate and results in a nearly $1,500 savings for each 3-credit class you take.

• Instructional Design: Understanding the principles of instructional design is fundamental. This includes skills in creating clear learning objectives, designing assessments, and applying various instructional strategies to create effective learning experiences.
• Curriculum Development: The ability to design and organize curriculum, courses, or learning programs that align with educational goals and outcomes.
• Technological Proficiency: A strong grasp of various educational technologies, including Learning Management Systems (LMS), authoring tools, content management systems, and other software used in eLearning development.
• Multimedia Development: Proficiency in creating and editing multimedia elements such as graphics, videos, animations, and audio to enhance learning materials.
• Pedagogical Knowledge: Understanding of various educational theories and models, as well as the ability to apply them to create engaging and effective learning experiences.
• Content Development: The skill to create and adapt content for online and blended learning environments, including writing, editing, and organizing instructional materials.
• Assessment and Evaluation: The ability to design and implement various assessment methods to measure learning outcomes and improve instructional materials based on feedback.
• Project Management: Effective project management skills are essential for managing the development of educational materials, coordinating with team members, and meeting deadlines.
• User Experience (UX) Design: Knowledge of UX principles to create user-friendly and accessible learning interfaces, ensuring that learners can navigate and interact with content seamlessly.
• Data Analysis: The ability to collect and analyze data related to learner performance and course effectiveness to make data-driven improvements.
• Communication and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills are necessary for working with subject matter experts, educators, and other team members to gather information and develop effective learning solutions.
• Problem Solving: Identifying and solving instructional design and technology-related challenges, such as addressing technical issues or finding creative solutions to engage learners.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding copyright, fair use, and ethical considerations related to the use of digital content in education.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Being aware of cultural differences and designing learning materials that are inclusive and respectful of diverse backgrounds.

Visit the University Catalog to learn more about required coursework for the M.A. in Instructional Design and Learning Technologies and also learn more about the 4+1 Instructional Design and Learning Technologies Accelerated Program that is designed for undergraduate students in the Instructional Design and Learning Technologies BA program who have interest, and demonstrated ability, to pursue a Masters degree.

Admission Requirements

Students must submit the follow items with their application. The GRE is not required for admission to this program. The Office of International Affairs lists additional admission requirements for international students.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• 3.0 GPA or higher on submitted transcripts
• Two professional letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

Completion Requirements

Before exiting from the M.A. in Educational Technology, you need to complete two steps:

1. Apply for graduation.
2. Submit an Exit Survey.

Exit Survey:

The purpose of this survey is to assist the College of Education, Health, and Human Services with the evaluation of the master’s degree program and to serve as a guide for program development. The Exit Survey is a requirement for completion of the program. Submit the exit survey.

CEHHS Office for Student Success
262 Fairlane Center South (FCS)
[email protected]
313-593-5090

Stein Brunvand, Ph.D.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brunvand please contact:

CEHHS Office of Student Success
email: [email protected]
phone: 313-593-5090

Mesut Duran, Ph.D.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Duran please contact:

CEHHS Office of Student Success
email: [email protected]
phone: 313-593-5090