In this article, we profile 30 affordable master’s in instructional technology online programs.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment of instructional coordinators is projected to grow six percent through 2029, faster than the average for all other occupations. The favorable job outlook has prompted colleges and universities to offer online programs that prepare individuals for careers in this field. Online master’s in instructional technology programs are available at some of the nation’s most reputable and affordable colleges and universities.
30 Affordable Online Master’s in Instructional Technology Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 80 colleges and universities that offered master’s in instructional technology programs online. Our selection was based on accreditation and affordability. We gathered relevant information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and verified accreditation on the school’s website. We then selected programs that cost less than $23,000 per year and ranked them according to raw affordability. We also considered school and program rankings with major publications like U.S. News & World Report.
Reviewing the Top 30 Affordable Master’s in Instructional Technology Online Programs 2021
#30 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Online M.Ed. in Learning, Design, and Technology
University Park, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,994
Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers a master’s in instructional technology online that combines innovative teaching methods with the latest in instructional technology. Not only is the program well-suited for educators in traditional school settings, the program’s content is highly valued by corporate entities that need quality instructional designers to teach and train employees through quality training programs. The 30-credit program consists of core classes such as designing constructivist learning environments, emerging web technologies & learning, and systematic instructional development. Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome, and GRE test waivers are available for those who qualify. U.S. News & World Report ranks Penn State World Campus #8 in online master’s in instructional media programs.
#29 – University of Virginia
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction
Charlottesville, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,184
Administered through its School of Education & Human Development, the University of Virginia offers one of the top-ranked online instructional technology programs in the country. The program is fully online and can be completed in five years part-time or two semesters plus one summer when enrolled full-time. In addition to foundational coursework, students can choose a concentration from in-demand specialties such as applied behavior analysis, ESL, educational innovation, instructional technology, gifted education, literacy, and many more. Applicants must possess an accredited bachelor’s degree. GRE target scores include 150 verbal, 145 math, and 4.0 writing. The University of Virginia ranks #10 in best online master’s in education programs by U.S. News & World Report.
#28 – Michigan State University
Online Master’s in Educational Technology
East Lansing, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,858
The Michigan State University College of Education offers an online master’s in instructional technology through its Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology & Special Education. The 30-credit program is designed for working professionals and can be completed entirely online or in a hybrid format. Michigan State classifies the curriculum as a Plan B program and does not include a thesis. Admission standards include an accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The GRE is not required for application. Featured classes include approaches to educational research, learning in school & other settings, and pro-seminar in educational technology. MSU is ranked #7 in the list of best online master’s in instructional media programs by U.S. News & World Report.
#27 – University of Toledo
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction
Toledo, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,199
Through its Department of Educational Studies within the College of Education, the University of Toledo’s master’s in instructional technology online program connects the worlds of education and technology that bring innovative learning into the spotlight. The skills and knowledge gained in the program are highly sought after in educational institutions as well as government, non-profit, and private entities that provide training and education for their employees and various stakeholders. Designed for working professionals, the entire program is online and allows individuals with full-time jobs to pursue a graduate degree. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Toledo #298 in best national universities.
#26 – University of Michigan
Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Dearborn, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,250
Landing at #26 on our list of affordable online instructional technology programs, this master’s degree from the University of Michigan at Dearborn is designed for educators, instructional designers, and trainers seeking additional skills and knowledge gained through a graduate degree. The program imbues fundamental knowledge on integrating technology into the teaching and learning process that produces exceptional outcomes in a variety of settings. Admission requirements include an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a valid Michigan teaching license.
#25 – Louisiana State University
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,035
Louisiana State University (LSU) offers an online master’s in instructional technology designed for current or aspiring instructional designers. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in several industries including K-12 education, postsecondary education, government, military, and private industry. Individuals with the capacity to teach and train using sound pedagogical methods with innovative technologies are highly sought after in nearly any type of organization. Classes taught include advanced telecommunications & electronic learning, critical analysis of current research in educational media, and design & development of multimedia instructional units. LSU ranks in multiple U.S. News & World Report categories including #71 in top public schools.
#24 – University of North Dakota
Online Master’s in Instructional Design & Technology
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,796
A leader in distance education, the University of North Dakota offers a master’s in instructional technology online program that is designed for working professionals seeking advanced teaching and technology skills useful in a wide variety of settings including education, government, and private industry. The 34-credit program includes two courses that are designed for individuals seeking training positions in the corporate world: human performance design and instructional design consulting. Other courses include introduction to computer-based instruction, instructional simulations & games, and instructional systems analysis & design. The program can be completed in approximately two years. Backed by an excellent academic reputation, the University of North Dakota ranks #258 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#23 – University of Florida
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction
Gainesville, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737
The University of Florida offers one of the top online instructional technology programs in the country based upon its affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and innovative coursework. Students seeking positions as educational technologists or instructional designers are welcome to apply to the program, which takes just two years to complete. Core classes include designing integrated media environments, foundations of educational technology, issues & trends in educational technology research, and learning analytics concepts & techniques. Admission requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Test scores are not required. Backed by an outstanding academic reputation, the University of Florida ranks #30 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#22 – Arizona State University
Online M.Ed. in Learning Design and Technologies
Tempe, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608
A leader in distance education, Arizona State University offers an online master’s in instructional technology for current and aspiring instructional designers. Admission requirements include a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, a completed application, a personal statement, and a resume. The GRE is not required. Featured courses include, but are not limited to, foundations of learning design & technologies, issues in online & distance education, and learning theories & instructional strategies. Graduates have gone on to careers as curriculum designers, instructional designers, online learning specialists, and more. ASU ranks in 30 U.S. News & World Report categories including #1 in best online master’s in instructional media programs.
#21 – North Carolina State University
Online Master’s in Learning Design and Technology
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,673
North Carolina State University offers one of the top online instructional technology programs that lead to a master of education in learning design and technology or master of science in learning design and technology. Graduates commonly go on to work for educational institutions or in various areas of government and private industry. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, transcripts, a 500-800 word personal statement, and an academic writing sample. Applicants from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply. As one of the top research institutions in the country, North Carolina State University ranks #13 in best online master’s in instructional media programs by U.S. News & World Report.
#20 – Florida State University
Online Master’s in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
Tallahassee, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,553
Florida State University offers a master’s in instructional technology online program for those currently serving in a role as an instructional designer or individuals seeking to change careers. The program welcomes candidates with a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. GRE test scores should be at the 50th percentile or above for both verbal and quantitative along with a 3.5 in analytical writing. GRE waivers are available and can be met through multiple criteria. The program focuses on both effective teaching pedagogy and information technology competencies across several platforms. As a world-renowned institution of higher education, Florida State University is ranked on the list of best online master’s in instructional media programs by U.S. News & World Report.
#19 – The University of Alabama
Online Master’s in Instructional Technology
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,470
The University of Alabama’s master’s in instructional technology online is designed to be completed in just two years of part-time study. The program is appropriate for individuals seeking careers in education or workplace training. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution along with a minimum GPA of 3.0. GRE composite test scores should be at least 300, or scores in the 50th percentile on the MAT should be presented. Test score waivers are available for those with at least five years of relevant work history. Featured core classes include assessment & evaluation in instructional technology, instructional technology research & product development, issues & trends in instructional technology, and online teaching & learning. As a leading public institution, Alabama is ranked #65 in top public universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#18 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Instructional Technology
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,435
As a leader in distance education, Grand Canyon University has one of the most affordable online master’s in instructional technology programs. Courses are designed to help educators get the most out of technology when it comes to teaching and learning. Graduates go on to work as instructional designers, technology teachers, distance education directors, and more. With a focus on practical application, graduates are well prepared to succeed on the job. Courses may include brain based learning, instructional theories & models in technology education, and multimedia instructional strategies & methods. With a focus on career outcomes and economic mobility, Grand Canyon ranks #39 in top performers on social mobility according to U.S. News & World Report.
#17 – University of Georgia
Online M.Ed. in Learning, Design, & Technology
Athens, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,168
The University of Georgia offers one of the leading value-based online instructional technology programs, measured by its affordable tuition and track record of graduate placements in top jobs. The 36-credit degree program welcomes candidates with a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree and will allow up to six transfer credits. Other application requirements include test scores, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Courses may include designing interactive learning environments, foundations for learning for instructional design & technology, principles of human performance technology & analysis, and team based design of interactive learning environments. As a national leader in education and research, the University of Georgia ranks #47 in top national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#16 – Northern Arizona University
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
Flagstaff, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,166
Northern Arizona University’s master’s in instructional technology online is geared towards working professionals seeking the rigor and convenience of a distance education from a fully accredited academic institution. The NAU program is fully online and consists of 12 core credits and 18 learning emphasis credits. Students can choose from three emphasis areas including adult learning & training, assistive technology, and K-12 teaching. Admission is open to candidates that possess a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 minimum GPA. Other admission requirements include the submission of a resume, a letter of application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Northern Arizona University ranks #284 in best national universities according to U.S News & World Report.
#15 – University of Missouri
Online Master’s in Technology in Schools
Columbia, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,725
The University of Missouri offers an online master’s in instructional technology through its School of Information Science & Learning Technologies. The program is built specifically for K-12 educators and instructional coordinators to gain the knowledge and skills to improve the teaching and learning process through effective use of technology. Typical students take 1-2 courses per semester and finish in two years. Because the program is 100% online with no campus visits, it has become a popular option for full-time teachers and other working professionals seeking flexibility. As a flagship university, Missouri ranks #124 in national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#14 – Texas A & M University
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
College Station, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,470
Texas A&M University offers one of the top online instructional technology programs in the country through its College of Education. The program features 36 credits, all designed to give students the applied knowledge and theoretical background to design, build, and manage effective educational technology programs. Graduates go on to successful careers across the educational field as well as in private industry and government. Courses include graphic communication & interface design, integrating technology in learning environments, and measurement & evaluation in education. As a leading institution in online learning, Texas A&M University ranks #9 in best online master’s in instructional media programs according to U.S. News & World Report.
#13 – University of Maine
Online M.Ed. in Instructional Technology
Orono, Maine
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,596
Landing at #13 on our list, the online master’s in instructional technology program at the University of Maine is a collaborative effort that brings together the best faculty from three University of Maine campuses to train current and future leaders in the educational technology space. Candidates must, at the time of application, possess an accredited bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Lower GPAs are considered on a case by case basis. Application materials include a personal essay, a resume, and academic transcripts. Test scores are not required to apply. The University of Maine ranks #206 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#12 – University of Houston
Online Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology
Houston, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,568
The University of Houston at Clear Lake’s master’s in instructional technology online is a fully online degree with no campus visits that can be completed in just two years by taking two courses per term during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. According to CNNMoney, the number of instructional designer jobs is expected to increase by 28.3% through 2025, making the program an excellent investment for those seeking a successful career in the field. Degree requirements include classes such as learning theory & instruction, systematic design of technology based instruction, and trends & issues in instructional design & technology.
#11 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Educational Technology
River Forest, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,378
Concordia University of Chicago offers an online master’s in instructional technology designed for current educators seeking to become technology specialists or technology directors in an educational environment. The program’s curriculum is designed in accordance with the standards and performance indicators set forth by the International Society for Technology in Education. Current educators in the program qualify for the Technology Specialist Endorsement for the State of Illinois upon successfully graduating from the program. Courses may include integrating technology across the curriculum, using technology to build learning communities, and visual literacy in the classroom. The institution is well known for its value and ranks #44 in best value schools by U.S. News & World Report.
#10 – Texas Tech University
Online M.Ed. in Instructional Technology
Lubbock, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,350
Landing at #10 on our list of 30 most affordable online instructional technology programs, Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas offers an exceptional program that features quality coursework delivered in a flexible manner taught by leading faculty experts in the field. The program is an excellent fit for current or aspiring instructional technology professionals working in education or private industry. Graduates are taught the essential skills to develop and maintain instructional technology programs using the latest technology platforms along with exceptional teaching and training methodology. Texas Tech enjoys a sound academic reputation among its peers and ranks #36 in best online master’s in computer technology programs by U.S. News & World Report.
#9 – Mississippi State University
Online Master’s in Instructional Technology
Starkville, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,910
Mississippi State University offers an online master’s in instructional technology for education or industry professionals with experience or interest in a career that intertwines technology, teaching, and training. The program is well suited for working professionals as there are no campus visits required; all coursework is conducted online. Students can choose from in-demand concentrations such as instructional design, distance education, or multimedia. A concentration allows the student to develop specific expertise in an area to improve their prospects of employability. As one of the top state institutions in Mississippi, MSU ranks #105 in top public schools according to U.S. News & World Report.
#8 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Online M.Ed. in Instructional Technology
Adelphi, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,910
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers experienced K-12 educators a great master’s in instructional technology online program. The coursework delves into teaching methodologies within the context of current or emerging instructional technologies that advance and enhance the teaching and learning process. Applicants should have an accredited bachelor’s degree and teaching experience. Featured core classes include foundations of technology in teaching & learning, teaching information & media literacies in the digital world, web-based teaching & learning, and using technology for instructional improvement. The University of Maryland Global Campus is ranked #136 on the list of best regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.
#7 – University of Central Florida
Online Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology
Orlando, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,872
The University of Central Florida offers an online master’s in instructional technology with concentrations in e-learning, educational technology, and instructional systems. These in-demand concentrations provide students with intense focus on a specific area of instructional design and technology, further leveraging the education they receive from the program. Administered by the College of Community Innovation & Education, the coursework is taught by the same faculty that teaches on-campus courses. Courses include instructional system design, interactive online & virtual teaching environments, and multimedia in education & training. The program is appropriate for current or aspiring educators or trainers. UCF is ranked #160 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
#6 – University of Arkansas
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,841
The University of Arkansas ranks #6 on our list of 30 affordable online instructional technology programs. Offered by the College of Education & Health Professions, the program is for those seeking to become educational administrators. Courses are offered in educational technology and design that can help graduates assume positions as technology directors and administrators. The 100% online program is 33 credits and can be completed in just two years. Those with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above are exempt from submitting GRE test scores during the admission process. The University of Arkansas ranks in 10 U.S. News & World Report categories including #72 in best online master’s in education programs.
#5 – University of Central Missouri
Online Master’s in Educational Technology
Warrensburg, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,786
The University of Central Missouri offers an online master’s in instructional technology designed for educators seeking to enhance their teaching and learning through technology integration. Entrance requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution along with a 2.75 minimum GPA. In addition to online coursework, students participate in an internship in their own school to further their hands-on experience with designing, implementing, and managing educational technology in the classroom. The program is appropriate for K-12 classroom teachers, librarians, and private industry trainers. Central Missouri ranks in seven U.S. News & World Report categories including #76 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#4 – Liberty University
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,349
Liberty University offers one of the most affordable online instructional technology programs in the country, which is designed to help classroom teachers transition to the instructional technology field. The program is 100% online and requires no campus visits, making it an exceptional choice for working professionals that need flexibility. The 36-credit degree features 8-week courses and takes students an average of 1.5 years to complete. Students are able to transfer up to 50% of the degree total from approved coursework. Applicants must possess an accredited bachelor’s degree to apply. No GRE scores are required. Liberty is ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
#3 – Western Governors University
Online M.Ed. in Learning and Technology
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,790
Western Governors University ranks comes in third on our list of affordable online instructional technology programs due to its low-cost tuition and return on investment. The program is completely online except for the capstone learning project that requires the student have access to a group of at least 15 learners that must be identified during the first term of the program. Applicants must possess an accredited bachelor’s degree verified through official transcripts. Other admission requirements include a completed application and a 20-30 minute interview with an admissions counselor. Courses include foundations of instructional design, instructional design analysis, instructional design production, and issues in instructional design.
#2 – The University of Texas
Online M.Ed. in Educational Technology
Edinburg, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,789
Second on our list of online master’s in instructional technology programs, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is appropriate for individuals working in K-12 education, military, non-profit, and corporate settings. The program is designed for working professionals and is therefore administered entirely online in an accelerated format. Application requirements and procedures include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE test scores no older than five years, a letter of interest, and a resume. Courses include, but are not limited to, educational communications, instructional design, instructional technology, multimedia, and research methods in education. This university is ranked in six U.S. News & World Report categories, including #36 in social mobility.
#1 – Fort Hays State University
Online Master’s in Instructional Technology
Hays, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,500
In the top spot on our list of master’s in instructional technology online programs, Fort Hays State University offers an innovative degree appropriate for working professionals across a variety of industries seeking the skills and knowledge needed to integrate technology into a teaching or training environment. The focus of the program is teaching students to research and integrate free open educational resources into their organizations. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA, a personal statement, two personal recommendations, and transcripts. Featured classes include educational research, innovative technology integration, instructional technology theory & practice, and school law. Fort Hays State ranks #112 in the list of best regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an online master’s in instructional technology degree?
Graduates of online instructional technology programs may pursue careers in various areas of education, government, and private sectors. The versatile online master’s degree in instructional technology opens doors to a wide range of career paths. Below are possible career options for graduates.
Curriculum specialists: Curriculum specialists are responsible for the design, development, and distribution of education materials within an educational setting. Often, specialists analyze existing materials and suggest improvements to the methods of instruction.
Education and training consultants: Education or training consultants often work in higher education, helping connect schools with workforce needs. These specialized consultants develop training resources and contribute to ongoing research projects.
Instructional coordinators: Instructional coordinators work with educational institutions, such as schools and colleges, to provide training for staff and instructors. Job duties include conducting outreach activities, educating and training new hires (staff and teachers), and scheduling programs.
Instructional technology directors: Director roles in instructional technology oversee the development and education of training curricula. Directors are often found in higher education, though secondary schools may hire in this role. To qualify for an instructional technology director position, a master’s degree and experience are required.
Instructional technologists: Instructional technologists work in all levels of education to provide knowledge on the integration of technology into the classroom and other learning environments.
What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in instructional technology online degree?
With many possible career paths for online master’s in instructional technology graduates, tracking employment trends can prove to be challenging. However, several related job titles are listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Roles include instructional coordinators, training and development managers, and training and development specialists.
The employment of instructional coordinators working in schools, colleges, and state & local governments should see a six percent growth. Anticipated job growth is faster than the average for all occupations and should continue to increase through 2029. As school districts and states emphasize student achievement, instructional coordinators will be needed to develop curricula and improve teacher effectiveness.
According to BLS, training and development managers should also expect to see job growth. Employment for this occupation is projected to grow slightly faster than the employment of instructional coordinators. Training and development managers should see a seven percent job growth through 2029.
Training and development specialists should see the most favorable job growth through 2029. In fact, this occupation should expect a nine percent job growth, much faster than the average of all other occupations. Job prospects will be most favorable for those with experience developing online training programs.
With various career paths available in the industry, earning a master’s in instructional technology online should provide the best job prospects and set you apart from your competitors with less education.
What is my earnings potential with an online master’s degree in instructional technology?
Earnings potential varies by occupation, since the instructional technology industry is vast. There are many different career paths one can take after earning a degree in instructional technology. However, your level of education impacts your earnings potential.
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for training and development specialists as $61,210. The lowest ten percent in this occupation earned less than $32,680, while the highest ten percent earned over $104,000.
BLS also reports earnings for training and development managers. To qualify for a management role, you’ll need a master’s degree in instructional technology or a closely related discipline. The median annual wage for training and development mangers was nearly double that of training and development specialists. Managers earned a median annual wage of $113,350. The lowest ten percent earned less than $65,000 and the highest ten percent earned over $196,000.
Management positions in instructional technology require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree; however, most employers prefer training and development managers to have a master’s degree. Some employers place additional value on an earned specialization or concentration in instructional design, organizational development, or another niche fitting for the industry.
Are there professional associations students may join while earning a master’s in instructional technology online degree?
Joining a professional association, even as a student, provides access to helpful resources to those working in the field of instructional technology. Professional associations advocate for their members, foster an online community, provide resources and professional development activities, and offer networking access. Below are three professional associations open to graduate students of online master’s in instructional technology programs.
Association for Educational Communications & Technology (AECT)
The AECT or Association for Educational Communications & Technology prides itself in connecting members across levels of education and industries with resources designed to improve instruction through technology. With 11 specialized divisions, such as distance learning or emerging technologies, members benefit from access to a diverse industry.
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
The ISTE is an organization that fosters a diverse online community of administrators and educators. The focus of the organization is educational technology topics. Members benefit from access to lists of standard competencies for teachers that guide continued learning.
Online Learning Consortium
The Online Learning Consortium is dedicated to offering industry-appropriate resources to educators at all levels with a focus on professional development and training. Members have access conferences, faculty development, publications, and networking opportunities. Students earning a master’s in instructional technology online can take advantage of these resources prior to graduation.
What specializations are available in online master’s in instructional technology programs?
Graduate students enrolled in a master’s in instructional technology program online may be able to select a specific area of the field as a concentration or specialization. Many programs on our list offer specializations in a unique niche relevant to some area of the instructional technology industry. Selecting a specialization allows students to tailor their master’s degree toward an area of interest or to meet their career goals. Students focus their studies on a particular topic by taking classes in the area of interest.
Students earning a specialization must take additional courses, depending on the program and curriculum requirements. Typically, programs require that students take three to four classes in the specialization. Some programs issue a graduate certificate upon completion of the specialization requirements. Concentration or specialization examples are listed below:
Curriculum design
Games & simulations
Gifted education
Information technology
Instructional design
Mathematics education
Online learning & teaching
School technology
Science education & technology
By earning a specialization, students can gain deeper knowledge of a particular topic or niche in the industry. A specialization can illustrate to employers that you are better prepared for the job market. Also, graduates of online master’s in instructional technology programs who have earned a specialization may find work in their area of interest easier than graduates without a specialization.
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BCO Staff
March 2021