Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
Curriculum
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A Practioner-Focused Curriculum for Instructional Designers Across All Industries
Gain the knowledge and practical skills you need to become a leader in the field of learning design.
- Total units: 30 units (Ten 7-week courses)
- Duration: 20 months
- Format: 100% Online | One course at a time
In the MS-LDT, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of the science of how people learn, while gaining proficiency in the leading technology tools currently used in instructional and learning design, such as Articulate 360 (including Storyline), LMS/CMS systems and other emerging tech.
Throughout the program, you’ll produce learning artifacts such as eLearning modules, program plans and online courses that will become part of your professional, peer-reviewed portfolio.
Classes you will take in the ms-ldt program
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
|
This course focuses on the field of instructional and learning design. Topics include the history of instructional design and the evolving l… |
3 |
|
This course introduces students to research-based principles of effective multimedia design and creating original media that conforms to tho… |
3 |
|
This course examines advanced topics in instructional design, including needs assessment, learner characteristics, alignment of learning obj… |
3 |
|
This course explores the artistic and technical aspects of creating engaging and accessible digital media to relay information and addresses… |
3 |
|
This course focuses on digital asset and artifact curation within instructional systems design. Students explore laws applicable to educatio… |
3 |
|
This course establishes foundations for ethical leadership in digital learning. It focuses on leadership skills, key functions and decisions… |
3 |
|
This course focuses on using evidence-based research and data to inform program and instructional design decisions. Students will conduct a … |
3 |
|
This course examines theories and techniques for evaluating educational and training programs. Students apply methodologies to identify need… |
3 |
|
This course explores the current landscape of learning technologies and evaluates the value and use of these tools in creating learning acti… |
3 |
|
This culminating course synthesizes topics discussed in all program courses. Students demonstrate achievement of all program learning outcom… |
3 |
Graduate with a Portfolio That Proves Your Expertise
The project-based curriculum of the MS-LDT program ensures that every course you take will contribute to your professional portfolio, with digital artifacts and e-learning content that showcase your ability to solve complex learning challenges with sophisticated design and data-backed strategy. You’ll finalize your portfolio and design an entire online course as part of your Capstone Project.
Want to see how the MS-LDT courses align with your career goals?
MS-LDT Degree plan
Degree candidates are admitted throughout the year to begin their program during one of three terms (spring, summer, or fall). You will take two courses during each 14-week term, focusing on one seven-week course at a time. This master’s degree can be completed, on average, in five terms (20 months). The streamlined course structure supports the demands of working professionals without compromising academic rigor.
Download a PDF of your degree plan that corresponds with your start term.
Important dates for your starting term will be found in the degree plan. Important dates for subsequent terms can be found in your student success center after acceptance.
Why study learning design at university of san diego?
- Project-based Learning: Every course is designed around a real-world deliverable—from developing interactive eLearning modules in Articulate 360 to designing comprehensive program evaluations. Many alumni highlight the hands-on, project-based learning approach as crucial for standing out during interviews and advancing their careers.
- Portfolio-Ready: You won’t just study; you’ll create! By the end of the program you will have a degree and a live digital portfolio featuring professional artifacts created in your courses.
- Designed for Working Professionals: The asynchronous format allows you to balance your studies with your family responsibilities and full-time career.
- One-on-one Mentorship: Our faculty are active practitioners across a range of industries who provide personalized feedback on your projects. This mentorship ensures your work meets the high standards of today’s competitive market.
Program Learning Outcomes
The curriculum of the MS-LDT is designed to achieve the following learning outcomes, in addition to the graduate learning outcomes shared across all of USD’s Master’s level programs.
Integrate foundational models and professional practices in learning design and instructional technology.
Graduates will be able to apply knowledge of adult learning theory, online pedagogy and andragogy and social justice principles to design, develop and deliver sound and equitable learning experiences and construct appropriate technology solutions in education and training contexts.
Employ sound practices in program planning, data collection and data analysis.
Graduates will be able to accurately and reliably assess the needs of diverse learner populations by applying ethical and objective data collection methods and employing appropriate data analysis techniques to use in learning design evaluation.
Critically evaluate trends, issues, practices and methodologies that impact the field of instructional design.
Graduates will recognize historical social disparities in education and training contexts and engage in discourse that challenges the current perspectives in learning design to drive the discipline forward.
Critically examine educational technology trends and apply empirical rationale in the development of instructional multimedia that supports the needs of a diverse audience, enhances cultural understanding and increases global awareness.
Graduates will employ principles of media design in the creation of end-to-end learning objects to deepen learning and reduce elements that impede cognitive processing. Students will be well-versed in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies and be able to utilize digital tools that integrate with adaptive and assistive technologies.
Engage learning project stakeholders in achieving the optimal student experience and meeting organizational goals.
Graduates will be able to effectively oversee the development of a learning project by applying project management techniques and frameworks. Graduates will recognize and exhibit high ethical standards in project leadership, consultation, negotiation, collaboration and management.
Ensure quality of instructional design and technology implementation.
Graduates will be able to define and apply information literacy and ethical use of content, and discuss the implications of quality management in educational product design and evaluation of learning technologies.