Online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology
Open doors by unlocking your potential.
Interested in growing your skills in the expanding instructional design and learning technology field? You’re not alone. Careers in learning and development are expected to grow faster than the average. In addition to this growth, instructional designers and learning technology professionals are being asked—more than ever—to upskill in key areas (e.g., foundations of instructional design, working with emerging technologies, producing content and assessments in dynamic ways, and leadership) and have master’s level credentials for positions. This is where the Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology can help.
Why UW-Whitewater Online?
- Asynchronous program lets you learn day or night
- Build connections through online assignments and discussion boards
- Affordable tuition
Fully Online
No requirements to come to campus.
Flexible
Complete courses asynchronously and part time.
Specialized
Enhance your career and expand your knowledge.
Online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology
The MS in Instructional Design and Learning Technology is a 30-credit program, of which 27 are chosen from three of four certificate programs. After you complete three of the four certificates, you are eligible to take the capstone course to earn your Instructional Design and Learning Technology Master’s Degree. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you. Full-time students can finish in as little as three semesters.
For a comprehensive overview of the program structure and required courses, please refer to the Graduate Catalog.
To qualify for admission to the online master’s program, you must meet graduate admission criteria.
Deadlines vary by term and are subject to change without notice. Accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines can be found on the graduate admission deadlines website.
Additional requirements for admission to the Instrucitonal Design program:
- Upload a personal statement (2-3 pages) describing the reason behind your decision to pursue this degree, your short- and long-term career goals, and the value you believe you will add to the learning experience of your fellow students.
All requirements can be submitted during the application process.
If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please email us to determine if you could be admitted on a contingent basis.
International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for information and assistance.
This graduate program at UW-Whitewater are a superior value at $595 USD per credit for the 2024-25 academic year — whether you are a Wisconsin resident, an out-of-state student, or an international student within the major. Non-major classes are charged at the standard resident/non-resident level. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.
Course materials
Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.
Financial aid
Students completing a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.
Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need.
Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in.
You can also fill out a request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.
Interested in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually.
Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology - Online Graduate Certificates
On your way to earning the degree, you’ll be able to personalize your program by choosing to earn three of four possible in-demand certificates.
Each certificate is comprised of three courses-all designed by experts in the field for aspiring or current learning professionals to prepare you for the wide-ranging roles and demands commonly associated with the field of technology-rich instructional design.
In each course you will have opportunities to engage with leaders in the field around current trends in instructional design and learning technology and practice using strategic decision making in case-based learning. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to apply what you’re learning in real-world projects-all providing evidence to your future employer that you’re not only ready to create engaging learning experiences, but demonstrating that you’re ready to step forward to lead the way in this dynamic field.
Knowing how to design learning experiences in today’s world (whether it be in higher education, K12, healthcare, or business) is no easy task. It requires having a full understanding of instructional design theories, practices, models, and learner needs.
More than ever, emerging technologies are changing the way we do things — and this is no different in learning. Courses in this certificate will give students key skills in understanding current trends (as well as how to keep up with trends), research skills to explore effectiveness of learning technologies, and experience working with emerging learning technologies.
From courses in higher education to training at businesses, many places are focused on growing digital learning. To do this effectively they need qualified instructional design and learning technology professionals who can plan and produce dynamic, engaging, and effective learning experiences.
As online courses and training continues to grow, individuals are needed to develop programs, lead units, and navigate the support of organizational technology change. These courses will focus on helping students to develop new programs and initiatives, prepare for leading learning technology units, and lead change in an organization.
