Schools today are embracing educational technology: iPads in the classroom, ebooks, class blogs, and more. And as the popularity of educational technology continues to grow, schools need qualified professionals who can guide them in their use of learning technology solutions. With a master’s degree in instructional technology, you’ll be well-versed in today’s offerings for educational technology, prepared to design technology learning programs and seamlessly integrate them into existing learning environments.
Why You Need a Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology
Thanks to the growth of educational technology, there is a high demand for educators who can effectively integrate new tools into the classroom. An advanced degree in instructional technology is a smart solution that can open doors for you whether you plan to become an instructional technology specialist who designs technology resources for education, or you simply want to learn how to better use technology in the classroom. As more educational institutions seek out teachers and other professionals who are well-versed in instructional technology, you’re likely to find excellent opportunities and higher pay with this degree.
What You’ll Study in a Master’s in Instructional Technology Program
Most master’s in instructional technology degree programs provide students with a mix of theoretical and research understanding along with hands-on technology skills. Your degree plan may include courses such as:
- Instructional Design
- Educational Technology Integration
- Web Technologies and Learning
- Mobile Technologies in Learning Environments
- Technology Use in Education
Online Master’s Degree Programs in Instructional Technology
A master’s degree in instruction technology goes by many names, including instructional systems technology, educational technology and digital teaching and learning. Programs to consider include:
- University of Southern California
- University of Dayton
- MS in Education
- Online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
- Penn State’s online master of education in instructional systems with an educational technology option. The program is taught by the same faculty who teach in their on-campus graduate school and currently includes electives on subjects such as hypermedia in the classroom, emerging web 2.0 technologies and distance education.
- Columbia University Teachers College’s online master of arts in computing in education for K-12 educators. Courses on theory and programming are bolstered by an integrative project with a mandatory written component. Your project might be developing a technology plan for a school district or training faculty in new technologies.
Career Opportunities with an Online Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology
As technology becomes integrated into educational settings, the opportunities for professionals with a master’s degree in instructional technology will continue to grow. Along with the opportunity to become a teacher leader within your school, a master’s degree in instructional technology can lead to a career in positions including:
- staff technology developer
- technology integration specialist
- instructional designer
- corporate trainer
- curriculum and instruction administrator.
- multimedia educational developer
- online teacher
- technology planner
- technology grant writer
Many jobs in educational technology offer good pay and a strong job outlook. Instructional coordinators, for example, earn about $60,050 per year — and demand for these professionals is expected to grow by 13%.
