What You'll Learn
Through the Learning Design and Technology Certificate, you will gain instructional design skills for careers in K–12 education, higher education, corporate training, nonprofit education, museums, or related organizations.
You will build knowledge of:
- Foundational instructional design theories, frameworks, and application-to-develop learning experiences for digital platforms, including project planning, content expertise, communication, writing, and technology.
- Relevant instructional design technology, programs, and methods, including interactive media, video, editing, digital design, and digital narrative.
- Focused topic areas like website development, web programming, and content management systems site development.
Courses
You’ll take four courses for the Learning Design and Technology Graduate Certificate, choosing one course from each of the following topic areas.
Foundations (1 Course)
Example course options:
- DGMD 55 Designing Educational Media
- EDUC 103 Introduction to Instructional Design
Technology for Education (1 Course)
Example course options:
- CSCI 3 Introduction to Web Programming Using JavaScript
- DGMD 1 Digital Media: From Ideas to Designs and Prototypes
Elective (1 Course)
Example course options:
- CSCI 12 Fundamentals of Website Development
- MGMT 5030 Project Management
- PSYC 1609 Neuroscience of Learning
Application of Knowledge and Skills (1 Course)
You’ll take this course as your final instructional design certificate course.
Example course options:
- DGMD 60 Designing Online Courses
- EDUC 113 Applied Learning Design
Searching and Registering for Courses
Available course options vary by term. You can browse options for fall, spring, or summer in the certificate course search within the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.
Earning Your Certificate
Most of our certificates can be completed online and no formal application process is required to pursue a certificate.
To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:
- Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
- Earn at least a B grade in each course.
- Complete the courses within three years.
Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.
Stack Your Certificate Into a Degree
Stackable credential pathways allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements. In the short term, you can earn your learning design and technology certificate.
Once completed, your four courses may count toward one of the following degree programs:
- Digital Media Design Master’s Degree
- Mathematics for Teaching Master’s Degree
- Museum Studies Master’s Degree
This stackable pathway offers an efficient, cost-effective way to earn short-term credentials to help fill immediate skill gaps and acquire specialized knowledge while building a foundation for long-term success that showcases your expertise in the field.
Learn how to plan a stackable credential pathway.
Cost
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2025–26 rate) | $3,440 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $5,476 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $13,760 |
FAQs
Can this certificate help me advance in an instructional design career?
The Learning Design and Technology Graduate Certificate is designed to enhance your instructional design career. The program focuses on foundational instructional design theories, frameworks, and their application in developing effective learning experiences for digital platforms. You’ll also gain proficiency in project planning, content expertise, communication, writing, and the integration of technology into educational contexts.
Does the program teach tools commonly used in instructional design?
Yes, the program includes coursework that covers interactive media, video production and editing, digital design, and digital storytelling. Additionally, you can explore focused topic areas such as website development, web programming, and content management systems. Tools covered in courses include Adobe Premiere, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Audition, and JavaScript.
How long will it take to complete the Learning Design and Technology Certificate?
The schedule for this online graduate certificate is flexible. You are required to complete four courses (16 credits), but you can spread these courses out, up to three years, depending on your schedule. Most students complete the certificate within 18–24 months.
What is the typical weekly time commitment for each course?
Each course usually requires a commitment of 8 to 12 hours per week. This time includes the online course, assignments, and participating in hands-on projects.
How do I get started on the certificate?
To get started on your graduate certificate, you simply register for your first course. We offer courses during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. There is no application.
