While the name may be unfamiliar to some, the expanding field of instructional design and technology lives at the intersection of technology and education and is ideal for those passionate about educating others. 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 is delivered.

Offered by many on-campus and online colleges and universities, 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 and technology 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, corporate, and nonprofit sectors.

MS in Instructional Design and Technology degree-seekers have many options when it comes to choosing the program that is right for them. However, a few key factors should always be considered before deciding. First, flexible scheduling can be key for working professionals, which is why online degree programs are such a popular choice. It’s also important to be able to connect with other professionals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which can greatly enhance your educational experience. Lastly, be sure you choose a university with a strong support team that is invested in helping you succeed as you work toward earning your degree.

The instructional technology field needs instructional designers capable of creating materials and programs that deliver outstanding educational outcomes. With an MS in Instructional Design and Technology, you can put yourself in position to become just such a designer.

When seeking out instructional designers, employers often look for candidates who hold a degree in the field. That’s because instructional designers with the right degree are far more likely to have the right skills, too. According to Dr. Mark Clauburg, MS in Instructional Design and Technology program director at Walden University, “Employers of instructional designers are requiring their employees to have knowledge of specific software applications, including Adobe Creative Cloud and Captivate. We know this because it’s listed in the majority of job descriptions. As a result, Walden now provides students in the MS in Instructional Design and Technology program with access to the Creative Cloud and Adobe Captivate, and students use this industry-standard software throughout their program.”