The School of Education and Human Development has launched a new, fully-online Master of Arts in Instructional Design program for professionals who want to excel in the field of online learning. Ideal for both working professionals and recent graduates, candidates will master the design, development, and implementation of online learning units. The ISTE-certified program specializes in the instruction of online learning design for adult learners and places emphasis on the understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the context of digital learning. 

“Instructional design skills are in demand and employers are looking to hire professionals who can design and implement online learning units in both the public and non-profit sectors,” said Josh Elliott, EdD, associate dean and director of educational technology and instructional design. “Graduates of our new program will master key skills including curriculum development and project management, to become leaders in their field of choice including corporate, academic, non-profit, government, and medical.” 

Ranked among the Best Online Master’s in Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report, Fairfield University provides students with a supportive and collaborative learning environment, with small online classes and one-on-one attention from expert faculty. Graduates of the program will acquire the skills to design, develop, implement, and evaluate online instructional design, as well as lead and manage large and small-scale projects from start to finish. Fairfield faculty provide students with the support and guidance necessary to achieve their goals so they can confidently navigate what’s next for them in their careers.

“Our new Instructional Design program is a perfect fit for Fairfield, where intentional pedagogy is the foundation for so many of our graduate programs, particularly those led by our Educational Technology faculty,” said Walter Rankin, PhD, vice provost for graduate, continuing, and professional studies. “One of the hallmarks of our online programs is that Fairfield has never outsourced the development of our courses. Our faculty are experts in their fields and also take part in training to help them create coursework that connects their objectives to the needs of various industries.”

Applications are now being accepted for fall, 2023. Candidates who are interested in the program are encouraged to attend an information session. To register for the next information session visit fairfield.edu/info. To learn more about the new MA in Instructional Design and to request more information visit fairfield.edu/instructional-design. To learn more about Fairfield University's online graduate programs visit fairfield.edu/online.