Graduate Studies

Instructional Design and Technology

"After completing the course in the program, I feel much more able to create effective instructional material that incorporates a wide variety of technological resources and focuses on best practices. Thanks to the guidance and knowledge of the professors in the IDT program I am confident in my knowledge base and ability to move forward in pursuit of a career in the IDT field." - Sasha Logan, Director, TRIO Student Support Services Project, Sauk Valley Community College

"I have learned an incredible amount about both instructional design and technology, all of which I was able to apply to my classroom. I was challenged during these courses to not only step outside of my comfort zone to try new things but also challenged to reflect on past experiences and find ways to adapt that learning for the future." - Vanessa Witherell, Technology/Library Teacher, United Northern Elementary

M.S. Emphases

  • General
  • Technology Specialist
  • Technical Training and Design

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (PBC)

Please see the brochure for information on the following PBCs:

  • Educational Technology Specialist
  • Instructional Media Development
  • Online and Distance Learning Development
  • Technology Integration in Education
  • Workplace Learning and Performance

Program Overview

The Master of Science (MS) degree in Instructional Design and Technology is designed to prepare educational technology specialists, graphic designers, instructional designers and developers, educational technologists, trainers, and classroom teachers to develop, produce, and evaluate instructional and training materials. Courses are offered in various formats such as online and weekend courses with hands-on experience. Graduates of the program will enter or continue careers in corporate training, public education, higher education, military, and health services. The program also serves students interested in pursuing advanced graduate studies in instructional design and related areas.

Why Choose Instructional Design and Technology at WIU?

The IDT MS degree program offers the flexibility for students to tailor their own program specifically to their career goals. The MS degree can be taken completely online or as an online/weekend academy format.

Our Faculty

Graduate faculty members are committed to helping their students apply the principles of instructional design to develop effective instruction and training. Professors in the department have doctorates in their field. Faculty members have extensive experience in their fields and are actively involved in a variety of professional organizations as well as publishing and presenting at the state, national, and international levels. Faculty have expertise in the following areas: multimedia development, digital graphics, digital video editing and production, 3D modeling and animation, web page and database development, computer game development, computer simulations, instructional design and development, project management, performance technology, online course development and evaluation, corporate training, K-12 technology integration in the classroom, and instructional theory and research.

Possible Careers

Please see our careers on the IDT website.

Some of our Graduates

  • Robert Beckman
    Firefighter/Paramedic/Instructional Designer, Fire Department, Greater Chicago area
  • Dana Fellows
    Technical Specialist, Instructional Designer and Subject Matter Expert, TestOutCorporation, Pleasant Grove, UT
    Instructor, Computer Information Systems, Sauk Valley Community College, Dixon, IL
  • Jill Forti
    Technology Facilitator at Mundelein School District
  • Sasha Logan
    Director, TRIO Student Support Services, Sauk Valley Community College, Dixon, IL
  • Donnie Ingram, Jr.
    Director of Online Learning and Senior Instructional Designer
    Center of Instructional Design and Technology, St Ambrose University, Davenport, IA
  • Vanessa Witherall
    Technology/Library Teacher, United North Elementary, Alexis, IL
  • Jing Yu
    Instructional Design Manager, The Kempe Center, Aurora, CO

Quick View

Degrees Available:

  • M.S.
  • Integrated Bachelor's/Master's

Locations:

  • Macomb
  • Quad Cities
  • Online

Required GPA:

  • Cumulative: 2.75 or
  • Last 2 years: 3.0

Admission Requirements:

  • Goals Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Three Letters of Recommendation

Interesting Facts: Fall 2023

  • Currently enrolled: 40
  • International: 3
  • Minority: 9
  • Students with Assistantships: 2

Department Contact Information:

Knoblauch Hall 135
309/298-1091
IDT@wiu.edu