Unveiling the Future of Education: The Learning Design & Technology Program at Loyola University Maryland
In a world where technology is rapidly transforming the educational landscape, staying ahead of the curve is imperative for educators and professionals alike. Recognizing the need to adapt to the evolving field of educational technology and meet the needs of learners of all ages in our digital world, Loyola’s School of Education is thrilled to introduce the revamped and fully online Learning Design & Technology Program.
Embracing Change for a Dynamic Future
In response to recent enrollment challenges and a commitment to remaining relevant, the Learning Design & Technology Program has undergone a comprehensive transformation. Formerly known as the Educational Technology Program, this innovative graduate program now stands as a testament to our dedication to meeting the needs of a diverse audience in the ever-changing realm of education.
Program Structure: A Glimpse into Excellence
The program comprises 12 online courses, totaling 36 credits, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic field of learning design and technology. With a focus on developing innovative thinkers and leaders, some of the many topics addressed include student-centered learning, educational technology resources, models and theories of change, leadership skills, assessment with technology, media literacy, multimedia production, and leadership for change. Students can expect to complete the program in a streamlined 2-year timeframe plus an additional semester for a comprehensive and immersive customized internship in their workplace.
Broadening Horizons: Beyond PreK-12 Educators
One of the key enhancements to the program is the broadening of the target audience beyond traditional PreK-12 educators. Recognizing the universal impact of technology on education beyond classroom spaces, the Learning Design & Technology Program welcomes professionals from all backgrounds and fields, ensuring a rich and collaborative learning environment.
A Name that Reflects the Future
The shift from the Educational Technology Program to the Learning Design & Technology Program signifies a broader and more encompassing vision. This change is not merely semantic but reflects our commitment to addressing the multidimensional aspects of learning design and technology in contemporary education.
Specializations to Meet Market Demands
To further enhance the program's relevance and align it with current market demands, we are thrilled to introduce three exciting specializations:
Instructional Design (offered Fall 2024):
The specialization in Instructional Design equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective and engaging learning experiences in both traditional and digital environments. In this specialization, students will delve deep into instructional design, focusing on principles of learning theory, pedagogy, and the latest educational technology tools and trends. Using theory and practical application, students will learn to design, develop, and evaluate instructional materials that cater to diverse learner needs and promote successful learning outcomes. This specialization focuses on pedagogical expertise, technology and data ethics, and practicing across diverse disciplines. Upon completion of the specialization, graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as instructional designers, e-learning specialists, curriculum developers, instructional technology coaches, distance education specialists, or learning design consultants in any field.
Ethics and Social Justice (offered Fall 2025):
The specialization in Ethics and Social Justice is a cutting-edge educational inquiry that interrogates the power of technology with a deep commitment to ethical principles and social equity. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex landscape of traditional and digital environments while addressing critical, ethical, and social issues. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that delves into the ethical considerations surrounding education and technology, exploring topics such as data privacy and justice, algorithmic bias, digital accessibility, and the equitable use of technology in diverse settings. This specialization emphasizes the cultivation of a social justice mindset, encouraging students to become advocates for inclusive and equitable education who use technology as a tool for positive societal change. Upon completion of the specialization, graduates emerge as leaders who create inclusive learning environments that prioritize social justice and equality in education. Graduates may pursue careers in curriculum development, diversity, equity, and inclusion program development, advocacy, and lobbying.
Advanced Multimedia Design (offered Fall 2026):
The specialization in Advanced Multimedia Design equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective and engaging multimedia learning experiences. Using research-based design principles, students will explore the overlaps of multimedia and instructional design in 3D multimedia, gaming and simulations, and XR technologies, and design and develop learning experiences in these emerging spaces. Graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as instructional designers, multimedia designers, curriculum developers, production managers, learning designers, project directors, multimedia supervisors, multimedia video editors, game designers, and XR specialists.
Envision Your Future
As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite passionate educators, professionals from any field, and lifelong learners to envision their future with the Learning Design & Technology Program. Whether you aspire to shape the future of education in the field of instructional design, advocate for ethical practices, or pioneer cutting-edge multimedia solutions, our program is designed to empower you on your path to success. Join us in redefining the possibilities of education through the Learning Design & Technology Program – where innovation meets impact, and the future of learning is in your hands.
We appreciate your patience as we work to update our website and other materials to reflect our name change. Email education@loyola.edu with any questions.