M.Ed. in Learning Design & Technology with a Specialization in Instructional Design

The specialization in Instructional Design, offered as part of our fully online M.Ed. in Learning Design & Technology, will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective and engaging learning experiences in both traditional and digital environments. Using theory and practical application, you will learn to design, develop, and evaluate instructional materials that cater to diverse learner needs and promote successful learning outcomes. The Instructional Design specialization focuses on pedagogical expertise, technology and data ethics, and instructional design across diverse disciplines.

Program Overview

Credits: 36
Delivery: 100% Online
Next Admission Term: Summer 2025
Class Duration: 8 weeks
Format: Part-time
Time of Completion: As little as 2 years*
Tuition Information

*Up to 5 years to complete.

Our 36-credit M.Ed. in Learning Design & Technology program is offered fully online. The fully online format combines self-paced learning with live class meetings using our video-based web platform.

Our online program is well suited for current and transitioning teachers or professionals interested in enhancing their instructional, technical, or pedagogical skills. The program allows our students to receive the highest caliber education without leaving their families, jobs, and communities.

The Learning Design & Technology Program may be taken part-time (to be completed in 2-5 years), which offers a self-paced opportunity to complete requirements over a longer period of time. Courses are delivered at times of the day that are convenient to full-time work schedules. Most students complete the program in two years plus one semester.

Flexibility: Our fully online program provides flexibility in terms of when and where you study. This is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with other commitments, as it allows them to balance work, family, and education.
Accessibility: Students can access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection and all materials are designed to be as accessible as possible.
Small Classes: Classes are typically composed of 12-18 students, allowing for active participation from all and a sense of community. Students and their professors develop strong, positive relationships.
Diverse Perspectives: Our program attracts a diverse group of students from various locations and backgrounds. This diversity enriches discussions and exposes students to different perspectives, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Technology Integration: Our online program leverages cutting-edge educational technologies, including interactive simulations, multimedia presentations, and collaborative tools. Learning in this way requires the development of digital literacy and self-discipline, skills that are valuable in today's technology-driven workplace.
Career Advancement: Our online graduate program provides an opportunity for professionals to advance their careers without taking a hiatus from work. This can lead to the immediate application of newly acquired skills and knowledge in the workplace.
Custom Internship: Students apply their learning design & technology knowledge and skills in an authentic learning setting through a leadership project of their choosing. Based on the identified needs within a professional setting, students plan, lead, and evaluate professional learning connected to technology initiatives.

Upon completion of the specialization in Instructional Design, graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as:

Instructional designers
E-learning specialists
Curriculum developers
Instructional technology coaches
Distance education specialists
Learning design consultants

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Blog Spotlight

"How can an Educational Technology degree change my teaching career?"

"How Loyola's Educational Technology program is different"

"Educational Technology student at Loyola receives Maryland State Education Association's Minority Recognition Award"

"The Educational Technology program at Loyola gave me the tools to be a better teacher and leader"

5 Things You'll Learn in Loyola's Learning Design & Technology Program

Why and how to integrate new technologies and tools

How to upgrade and improve the learner-centeredness of your classroom

How to use technology to engage your students in unique, innovative, and equitable ways

How to network and connect with teachers and educators nationally and globally

How to improve your teaching practices and lead others to do the same

Steve Bradbury, M.Ed., ‘19

The program helped sharpen my skills in my understanding and application of instructional technology which I use daily in an ever-increasing digital society. More importantly, I was challenged to be thoughtful and innovative in my use of technology, not for technology's sake, but for the bright young minds we have the privilege to serve each day.

Michele Baskin, M.Ed. ‘19

Every course taught me things I could incorporate into my existing classroom practice as well as ways to transform the teaching in my building as a teacher leader. I left better equipped as a leader in my building.

Taylor Uzdzinski, M.Ed. ‘18

Loyola's learning design & technology program was a highly beneficial learning experience for me. Fabulous professors and fellow scholars created a collaborative and enlightening environment that enhanced my growth as a teacher.

Whitney Plunkett, M.Ed. '19

In Loyola's learning design & technology program, I learned the importance of continually learning and growing. This program has not only benefited me and my career but countless students in my classrooms and schools.

Nia Wilkes, M.Ed. ’16

Because of my degree, my principal created an instructional technology position for me at my school. I’m so thankful for my experience at Loyola. I’m more knowledgeable, more confident, and a leader among my peers. I’ve made lasting friendships and professional connections.

Joanna Edwards, M.Ed. ’20

My principal is impressed by the education I received in the learning design & technology program at Loyola and how I’ve planned and implemented distance learning at my school. In addition to my role as music teacher, I am now the technology coordinator. I’m in charge of website updates and marketing communications. I am very happy!

Ashley Clark, M.Ed. ‘18

The foundation of what I learned during my time in the learning design & technology program immensely prepared me for remote and hybrid teaching. From utilizing tech tools with my students and making remote learning engaging and meaningful, the skills and pedagogies from my program helped me feel empowered, and for my students to never miss a beat of instructional time.

A Student Centered Approach to Online Learning

Loyola’s Jesuit values infuse every program with a passion for a better world for all. In our Educational Technology program, this means addressing the social justice issues along the path to excellent online learning. These include defining equity in educational technology, addressing the needs of diverse learners, determining how to expand access to online learning to all students, and understanding the legal and ethical standards of digital citizenship.

We strive to empower our educators to become leaders in the field, able to teach and support their colleagues and advocate for necessary change. They will leave the program prepared to take key roles in the change process in their school districts and engage in the visioning and planning processes for implementing technology district- or even state-wide.