What Is Instructional Design, and Is It for You?

Ideal for those passionate about educating others through technology, instructional design is an exciting profession with a strong future.

But what is instructional design exactly? What does earning an instructional design degree entail? And what types of jobs are available for those with a background in this growing field? We break it down for you below.

What does it actually mean?

If you find yourself asking, “What is instructional design?,” we don’t blame you. While the term may be unfamiliar, this expanding field lives at the intersection of technology and education.

From online classes to corporate training, instructional design focuses on the development of technology-based learning—both the curriculum itself and the platforms through which it’s delivered.

What will I learn in an instructional design and technology degree program?

To enter the field of instructional design, you’ll need an instructional design degree (or an instructional design and technology degree), preferably at the master’s level. Offered in many on-campus and online college and university environments, an MS in Instructional Design and Technology will teach you not only about how people learn, but about the best, most effective ways to educate them.

You’ll gain the skills necessary to assess, build, and administer technology-based learning experiences. A master’s in instructional design will also equip you with the know-how to apply theory, creativity, and problem-solving tactics to a variety of technology-based learning applications in the education and nonprofit sectors.

Instructional Design Jobs

Technology is changing the way we learn, and instructional designers with a master’s in instructional design are leading the charge in this rapidly growing field.

Here is a sampling of instructional design jobs you may be qualified for with an instructional design and technology degree:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for instructional coordinators is expected to grow 7% between 2021 and 2031, with an average of about 20,900 job openings projected each year.¹

If you’re interested in contributing to the field of education by developing engaging curriculum and tools that inspire others to learn, an MS in Instructional Design and Technology from Walden could be a great fit for you. Walden’s non-licensure program offers a general program and two specializations, all of which have an embedded certificate in instructional design. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply your knowledge to a real-world learning or performance problem as part of your capstone project.

Walden University is an accredited institution offering an MS in Instructional Design and Technology program online. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.

¹Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.