Instructional Design and Learning Technologies
The Bachelor of Arts in Instructional Design & Learning Technologies empowers students to shape the future of learning through the application of modern technologies and design principles.
Digital technology has transformed almost every industry, business, educational setting and healthcare environment. But its real power lies in learning to use it most effectively.
As an Instructional Technology major, you’ll study the latest methods for using technology to improve learning experiences across a broad range of workplace settings. For example, instructional technologists are go-to sources for creating training materials, guiding teams in adapting to new and emerging technologies, and helping companies and organizations get the most out of existing systems.
Apart from classroom learning, students are given several opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and research, working closely alongside expert faculty and industry leaders. This enables students to apply their learned theories and techniques to real-world situations, preparing them for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of instructional design and learning technologies.
This program is replacing the BA in Instructional Technology. The first opportunity to apply to this program is Fall 2024.
What will I learn?
Learning design and technology professionals, often called instructional designers, educational technologists, or eLearning developers, require diverse competencies to excel in their roles. These competencies include:
- 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 & Content Development: Proficiency in creating and editing multimedia elements such as graphics, videos, animations, and audio to enhance learning materials.
- 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.
- 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.
Visit the University Catalog to learn more about required coursework for the Instructional Design major and also learn more about the 4+1 Accelerated Program that is designed for undergraduate students in the Instructional Design major who have interest, and demonstrated ability, to pursue the MA in Instructional Design and Learning Technologies. If you are a transfer student, learn more about how your Associate of Applied Sciences degree in instructional technology or a technology related field can be applied towards this degree.
Making the Most of your Major
There are opportunities to develop skills and connect with others interested in instructional design beyond the classroom. Check out some of the career opportunities for this exciting profession.
| Career Opportunities | Median Salary | Growth in the Market | Summary of job |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructional Coordinator | $63,740 per year | 7% | Instructional Coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop educational material, implement it with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness. |
| Training Specialists | $61,571 per year | 8% | Training and development specialists plan and administer programs that train employees and improve their skills and knowledge. |
| Training & Development Specialist | $61,570 per year | 8% | Training and development specialists plan and administer programs that train employees and improve their skills and knowledge. |
| Training & Development Manager | $120,130 per year | 7% | Training and development managers plan, coordinate and direct skills and knowledge-enhancement programs for an organization’s staff |
Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Get Involved
Participate in campus educational outreach activities or represent CEHHS as an Orientation Leader.
Explore UM-Dearborn student organizations on VictorsLink.
Get Real World Experience
Consider presenting at the Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) conference with student colleagues or a professor.
Become an online tutor.
Plan for Life After Graduation
Seek out additional certification in relevant areas such as web design, online teaching and Universal Design for Learning.
Visit Career Services for advice with job searching and interviewing, resumes, and graduate school applications.
General Program Information
- Bachelor of Arts - Major
- Internships Available
- Scholarships Available
Contact Information
CEHHS Office for Student Success
2150 Social Sciences Building (SSB)
[email protected]
313-593-5090