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A Master of Science in Instructional Technology degree from Grand Canyon University focuses on the design, development and implementation of technology-based learning solutions. This graduate-level program aims to educate professionals who can create effective instructional materials and training programs using technology.
As a student, you are taught how to integrate technology into daily classroom work, as well as into teacher training. As a technology specialist in schools, graduates may lead the vision for how technology can be used in schools and help to make purchasing decisions based on those goals. In addition, you are prepared to support the day-to-day use and integration of technology in teaching and troubleshoot problems that may arise.
This program is designed for professionals who already hold a teaching license. It may include many of the same courses as a licensure program but does not have the same student teaching or internship requirements. Overall, the program is a blend of knowledge with hands-on projects to position you for a STEM-based career.
Our master’s degree can prepare teaching professionals to increase their involvement with technology. Some graduates choose to remain in the classroom and more effectively incorporate technology into their teaching.
Earn Your Master’s in Instructional Technology Online
While taking classes online for this master’s program, you will study both theoretical and practical applications for technology in schools. The online courses allow current teachers who are already working in a classroom the flexibility to pursue a higher education while balancing their current career and busy schedule.
A cornerstone of this master’s program is brain research about how technology connects to teaching, learning and memory.
Other topics covered in this program include:
Current practices and legal standards related to technology in schools
Tech-based assessment systems
Technology learning theories
Multimedia teaching resources
Curriculum development for distance education
School-based technology and media leadership
One of the best ways to gain insight and stay updated with the latest trends is to learn directly from technology industry instructors.
The faculty at the College of Education have experience with:
Furthermore, the master’s degree program culminates with the creation of a professional development portfolio, outlining the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) to demonstrate expertise in supporting technology within the educational environment. You will outline how you intend to integrate technology at your school site.
This degree program from GCU is designed to prepare graduates to specialize in technology education leadership.
With the knowledge and leadership skills embedded in the courses, graduates of this program may pursue careers including:
Instructional coordinators
Library specialists
Development specialists
Training and development specialists
Since 1968, GCU has maintained institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, GCU is authorized by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education. These accreditations highlight the university's commitment to quality education, with its academic programs meeting established criteria and standards recognized by peer institutions.
Whether you are a current educator or looking to transition into the field of instructional design, read through these common questions about pursuing this graduate-level degree.
Instructional technology in education refers to the use of technology tools, resources and strategies to enhance teaching and learning processes. This is a dynamic field that continues to evolve with advancements in technology, shaping the future of education by making learning more accessible, interactive and effective.
As technology continues to transform the education landscape, an MS in Instructional Technology can equip educators with the necessary skills to create engaging and effective learning experiences using technology. Pursuing this degree can offer several benefits, including how to integrate cutting-edge technologies into your teaching practices, how to create engaging and dynamic learning experiences for your students, networking and developing a deeper understanding of how technology can enhance the learning experience.
Instructional design and instructional technology are related fields that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Instructional design is the process of creating effective and efficient learning experiences by identifying learning needs, developing learning objectives, designing instructional materials and evaluating the effectiveness of the learning experience. Instructional technology, on the other hand, focuses on the selection, implementation and integration of various technologies to enhance the learning experience, specifically related to K-12 environments.
While instructional design may involve the use of technology, it also encompasses non-technological approaches to create effective learning experiences. Instructional technology is primarily concerned with the use of technology to support learning.
The instructional technology field is diverse, with opportunities for professionals to work in various settings, such as K-12 education, higher education, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and corporate training. As an interdisciplinary field, skills such as instructional design, instructional technology, multimedia development and project management make this an engaging and dynamic field for professionals who enjoy continuous learning and growth. Furthermore, while the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide specific job growth information for instructional technologists in particular, instructional coordinator is a common career path for aspiring instructional technology professionals. According to the BLS, 4,100 new jobs are estimated to open for instructional coordinators from 2023 to 2033.1
Take the next step in your professional journey and make an impact in instructional technology.
If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).
1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook Instructional Coordinators, retrieved on Aug. 30, 2024.
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
