Laurence is a Learning & Development Specialist who loves turning ideas into meaningful learning experiences. Laurence recently completed her Master’s in Learning Design and Technology at the University of San Diego, where she explored how innovation, accessibility, and evidence-based design can transform learning. At Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Laurence has designed digital learning solutions, built frameworks to support growth and evaluation and led communication and change initiatives for large-scale projects like their SAP rollout. Laurence is passionate about creating learning that connects people, purpose, and performance.
What kind of job do you have in instructional or learning design?
I work at Ferring Pharmaceuticals as a Learning & Development Specialist, where I design and implement non-digital and digital learning experiences and programs to support employee capability development across the organization. My work includes developing e-learning modules in Articulate Rise and Storyline, creating learning frameworks and rubrics to assess competencies, applying accessibility and UDL principles, and leading program evaluation initiatives using the Kirkpatrick model. I also contribute to change management, communication, and training strategies for large-scale projects such as our global SAP rollout.
Why did you choose the LDT program?
Initially, I was looking to complete a CAS or DAS in Switzerland, which are short, specialized programs designed for professionals who already hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees and wish to further develop specific skills. However, after researching what was available online, I discovered the Learning Design and Technology (LDT) program at the University of San Diego. Having previously completed an MBA exchange at USD, I already knew I loved the university and thought it would be wonderful to study there again. The tuition was also comparable to the Swiss programs I had found, and I felt that a slightly higher investment would be worthwhile for an online program of this caliber. In addition, I wanted a broader, international perspective on learning design and technology, particularly from the U.S., which I find often more advanced and innovative in this field than Switzerland or Europe. Finally, the online and flexible format made it the perfect fit for a working professional like me, allowing me to continue my full-time role while pursuing a degree that would truly enhance my practice.
How did the LDT program help you achieve your career goals?
The LDT program has had a major impact on my professional growth. It gave me the knowledge, structure, and confidence to innovate and lead meaningful change within Learning & Development at Ferring. Thanks to what I learned, I was able to:
- Develop our first e-learning modules using Articulate Rise and Storyline
- Design and implement our first Kirkpatrick evaluation model to assess a 3-year leadership program
- Create our first developmental rubrics to measure competencies and growth
Review and restructure all learning design processes to align with instructional design models such as ADDIE - Advocate for a learner-centered culture, shifting the focus from manager assumptions to actual learner needs Begin embedding accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles into all new programs Design storyboards, scripts, and style guides for e-learning development
- Lead our first collaboration with an external digital learning agency to co-create four Storyline modules
Although my current title is Learning & Development Specialist, the expertise and strategic mindset I’ve gained have positioned me beyond my formal role. I’m currently in discussions for a promotion to Senior L&D Specialist, which I hope to achieve by the end of next year. The program didn’t just expand my skills, it gave me the tools and confidence to elevate how learning is designed, delivered, and valued within my organization.
What advice would you share with prospective LDT applicants?
My advice to prospective LDT applicants is simple: Go for it, but go in with purpose. The program is incredibly rich, but the real value comes when you apply what you learn to your own professional context. Every assignment is an opportunity to test a new idea, improve a process, or design something meaningful at work. The more you connect the coursework to real-world challenges, the more transformative the experience will be. Also, don’t underestimate the time commitment, especially if you’re working full time. Organization and discipline are key, but the flexibility of the online format makes it absolutely manageable (but there will be compromises). Finally, take full advantage of the community. The professors are not only knowledgeable but genuinely invested in your growth, and your classmates will inspire you in ways you don’t expect. The collaboration, even in an online format, is one of the program’s greatest strengths. If you’re looking for a program that blends theory, technology, and practical application, and that truly changes how you see learning, this is it.
Who was your favorite instructor?
It’s difficult to choose just one, but my favorite instructors were Dr. Lisa Evans and Dr. Rebecca Lundeen. Dr. Evans has a unique ability to bring theory to life. Her classes were incredibly well-structured, practical, and full of insight. She challenged us to think critically about how learning design influences behavior and performance, and her feedback always pushed me to go one step further in refining my work. Dr. Lundeen, on the other hand, inspired me through her empathy, curiosity, and real-world perspective. She encouraged creativity and reflection, and her guidance helped me translate what we learned into meaningful change within my organization. Both of them went beyond teaching; they became mentors. Their encouragement and support not only shaped my professional growth but also helped me implement real innovations at work.
What were you balancing while participating in the LDT program?
Staying motivated throughout the program came down to purpose and connection. I always reminded myself why I had enrolled, to grow as a professional and bring more innovation and impact to my work. Every assignment was a chance to create something real and useful for my organization, which kept me engaged even during the busiest times. Balancing a full-time job, two weddings, and a pregnancy wasn’t easy, but the supportive professors and collaborative classmates made a huge difference. The program felt relevant, flexible, and human. Seeing how directly I could apply what I was learning at work gave me energy, and reminded me that progress doesn’t come from having time, but from making it meaningful.
LDT Graduating Class:
2025