2 answers
Sophie
Student
1
Question
Updated
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How important is M.S.Ed. program name recognition in Instructional Design?
I would like to get a Master's degree in instructional design, with the goal of getting skills for being hired.
How important would it be to pursue a program with a well-known, prestigious program, like Purdue? Are employers just looking for the presence of a Master's degree, or are they looking for degrees from specific universities?
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2 answers
James Washok, M.Ed., M.S. IDT
Instructional Designer
12
Answers
Hurst, Texas
Updated
James’s Answer
I have two Master's Degrees: one in Curriculum Development and Instructional Design, and another in Instructional Design Technology. Both have been key to my success and have helped me secure positions with companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, the Department of Homeland Security, other government contracts, D.R. Horton Homebuilders, and many more.
The school's names didn't factor in the equation; it was the experience and the final "piece of paper" that hiring managers and organizations were looking for.
These degrees provided essential knowledge in areas such as teaching methods, content development, and the application of theory. While they didn't focus much on specific tools that companies often seek, that's understandable since tools can vary. However, experience with popular tools like Articulate is often beneficial.
The capstone projects were great for preparing new instructional designers for real-world projects, though they could have included more on project management and working with subject matter experts. Adding these skills would be a valuable improvement to the programs.
There are many "boot camps" and "academies" claiming to prepare you for a career in instructional design, but they often don't deliver on their promises. Instead, accredited certificate programs might offer more value and help you get hired.
Research the university you are planning on attending and see what courses, exactly, they offer in an ID program
Don't waste money on "quick" fix programs, boot camps, or the IDOL Academy
Prepare your skills with tools...MASTER at the very least PowerPoint, as Storyline is built on that look/layout for a reason; don't skimp on graphic design and video editing
Realize that, at the moment, the market is FLOODED with instructional designers at every level - from the want-to-be ID to the experienced, so it's a battle
The school's names didn't factor in the equation; it was the experience and the final "piece of paper" that hiring managers and organizations were looking for.
These degrees provided essential knowledge in areas such as teaching methods, content development, and the application of theory. While they didn't focus much on specific tools that companies often seek, that's understandable since tools can vary. However, experience with popular tools like Articulate is often beneficial.
The capstone projects were great for preparing new instructional designers for real-world projects, though they could have included more on project management and working with subject matter experts. Adding these skills would be a valuable improvement to the programs.
There are many "boot camps" and "academies" claiming to prepare you for a career in instructional design, but they often don't deliver on their promises. Instead, accredited certificate programs might offer more value and help you get hired.
James recommends the following next steps:
J Huff
56
Answers
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
Updated
J’s Answer
Good day,
The short answer is that employers want someone who can do the job well and make an impact in instructional design.
Program name recognition may help in some cases, but it will not replace a strong résumé, relevant experience, a solid portfolio, and the ability to communicate effectively. Colleges and universities, for example, often look for instructional designers who can work with faculty and staff, support students across populations, apply universal design principles, and adapt to new tools, including AI when appropriate.
As you plan your education, try to find ways to apply what you are learning. You might want to connect with a former high school, a local college, a nonprofit, or an online teaching platform to help with course design, workshops, or interactive learning materials. These experiences can help you build practical skills and strengthen your portfolio.
In short, the school name can matter, but your skills, experience, and ability to show your value matter much more.
I hope this helps.
The short answer is that employers want someone who can do the job well and make an impact in instructional design.
Program name recognition may help in some cases, but it will not replace a strong résumé, relevant experience, a solid portfolio, and the ability to communicate effectively. Colleges and universities, for example, often look for instructional designers who can work with faculty and staff, support students across populations, apply universal design principles, and adapt to new tools, including AI when appropriate.
As you plan your education, try to find ways to apply what you are learning. You might want to connect with a former high school, a local college, a nonprofit, or an online teaching platform to help with course design, workshops, or interactive learning materials. These experiences can help you build practical skills and strengthen your portfolio.
In short, the school name can matter, but your skills, experience, and ability to show your value matter much more.
I hope this helps.