Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
Learn Instructional Design Skills Sought by Employers in All Industries
The University of San Diego’s online Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology (LDT) program is a one-of-a-kind experience for degree candidates who are motivated to work as learning designers and instructional designers — career roles that are in high demand amid the widespread shift to online education.
The need for learning designers has increased dramatically since the start of COVID-19. The public health crisis accelerated an ongoing trend toward educational institutions pivoting to online learning and toward companies of all types and sizes investing in online training.
The curriculum for our innovative, online LDT degree program is thoughtfully crafted to prepare graduates for positions that involve creating educational programs, online courses and training materials for educational institutions, organizations and corporations.
Innovative Curriculum Tailored to the Needs of Learning Designers
The Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology is a 30-unit, project-based program that is offered 100% online using the Blackboard learning management system. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the science of how people learn, as well as proficiency in the leading technology tools currently used in instructional and learning design.
To prepare students for the requirements of the profession, most courses will include practical application of theoretical concepts, with students producing learning artifacts such as eLearning modules, program plans or online courses that they can add to their portfolio.
Designed to be completed in 20 months over five semesters, the program requires students to take two seven-week-long courses each semester, including a Capstone course that synthesizes the topics covered in the preceding courses. In the Capstone project, students build a peer-evaluated portfolio that showcases their technology and design skills and can be shared with prospective employers.
In addition to accessing instruction through the Blackboard LMS, students will be exposed to various educational technologies that become part of their technology toolbox for career development opportunities. For example, students will be able to explore rapid eLearning software such as Articulate 360 (including Storyline 360), Adobe Captivate and Camtasia. They will also gain experience with graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Canva and Gimp.