Instructional designers are responsible for improving learning outcomes in many industries. Think of a field where people need training or enhanced education to excel at their jobs or benefit their organizations. You will find instructional designer (ID) roles behind many of those programs.
Although not a new profession, instructional design has transformed dramatically since the turn of the century. The Internet, advent of personal computers, and affordability of mobile devices have changed the nature of training and education. We can expect this field to continue to evolve. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, has upended many traditional notions about work and learning. Instructional designers are poised to be at the forefront of this and other workplace shifts and adaptations.
Instructional Coordinator growth is projected at 6%, and Training and Development Specialist is projected to grow at around 9% by 2029
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the instructional design field was projected to grow even before the pandemic. For example, Instructional Coordinator and Training and Development Specialist are two job categories cited by the BLS to be poised for above average future growth; Instructional Coordinator growth is projected at 6%, and Training and Development Specialist is projected to grow at around 9% by 2029.
Employers expect ID job candidates to possess expertise in several critical areas such as learning theories and principles, training paradigms, multimedia production, project management, program evaluation, and various web technologies. They must also have the capacity to understand instructional design as an evolving field and must assimilate other skills and concepts as they emerge.
With such an eclectic skillset, you will find instructional designers working in many diverse fields such as major corporations, higher education, manufacturing, and positions within state and federal government, nonprofit organizations, as well as military and military/government contractors. Additionally, the latest trends suggest instructional designers are increasingly self-employed on a freelance basis.
Eastern Kentucky University’s online Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology prepares competent, capable creators of learning solutions across the professional landscape. The degree provides relevant, real-world course content, experienced faculty, practical experiences, and portfolio preparation to showcase your skills and abilities to hiring decision-makers in the 21st-century workplace.
Earn your online master’s degree from a regionally accredited university that has been an online education leader for more than 15 years. Complete the form to learn more about how you can earn your master’s in instructional design and learning technology and give yourself a competitive edge in the job market. Contact us today to get started.