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Master of Science in Education Instructional Design and Educational Technology courses
Instructional Design and Educational Technology coursework overview
Coursework tailored to your learning preferences
- Capella sets the deadlines
- Weekly online interactions
- Learn on your time
- Online
Planning for your degree
- total quarter credits: 46
- Quarter length: 10 weeks
- Course length: 10 weeks
- Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Course requirements
- Core 4 courses
- Specialization 5 courses
- Elective 1 course
- Capstone 1 course
Example program course sequence
This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.
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ED5010
Core Foundations of Master's Studies in Education
4 quarter credits
This course provides learners with opportunities to acquire and use graduate-level skills, including the ability to critically examine and apply relevant educational theory to professional practice. Learners develop expertise in scholarly writing as well as explore the importance of multicultural perspectives and diversity in professional contexts. Finally, learners articulate and examine their professional purpose and its alignment with their specialization and career aspirations. Must be taken alone during the first quarter by learners who have been admitted to the MS in Education program. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ED5146
Core Assessment and Evaluation in Education
4 quarter credits
Learners examine the background, context, and practice of assessment of student learning and evaluation of educational programs. They apply their knowledge to design an equitable and inclusive assessment plan that can be implemented in the classroom; and school or organizational level to promote improvement and accountability.
4 quarter credits
ED5343
Core Multicultural and Inclusive Education
4 quarter credits
Learners evaluate multicultural theories by analyzing topics, such as cultural identity, cultural awareness, cultural competence, and apply these concepts to educational settings.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7860
Core Survey of Research Methods
4 quarter credits
Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest.
4 quarter credits
Specialization Elective Choose an Elective Course
4 quarter credits
ED6484
Specialization Course Application of Learning Theories to Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
This course presents theories of learning and instruction providing empirical guidance for designing effective instructional solutions that target specific learning outcomes. Learners engage in a variety of readings, activities, discussions, and assignments to further develop an understanding of the foundational theories of learning and instruction and their applications to instructional design. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5343 or ED5342. Does not apply to MS Instructional Design for Online learning learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5130
Specialization Course Competency-Based Curriculum and Design
4 quarter credits
Learners gain an understanding of the differences between professional standards, outcomes, and competencies, and how they can be integrated into curriculum design. Learners build on this understanding, mapping competencies to outcomes and aligning standards to competencies and outcomes. Learners practice integrating competency-based curriculum and instructional content with best-practice instructional approaches to develop an environment that values diverse voices. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484. ED6484 does not apply to MS Educ Innov and Tech learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5813
Specialization Course Principles and Strategies of Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
Learners examine the process of instructional design and apply design research and theory while developing instructional strategies. Learners examine the systematic process of addressing the needs of the student, structuring the content, and applying principles of learning and instruction to create effective instructional content. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ED5130; ED6484. ED6484 does not apply to MS Educ Innov and Tech learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5805
Specialization Course Assessment and Analytics for Differentiated Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
Learners apply theories of constructivism, neurodiversity, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to assess student achievement in a competency-based, online learning setting. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484
4 quarter credits
ED5808
Specialization Course Leading in Instructional Design and Technology
4 quarter credits
Learners acquire project management skills such as planning, evaluating, communicating, anticipating risks, applying ethical standards, and managing collaborative partnerships. Learners identify and apply the tools, methods, and processes used to effectively budget, implement, and manage e-learning development projects. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484
4 quarter credits
ED6950
Capstone Capstone for Master of Science in Education
6 quarter credits
In the capstone course, learners demonstrate proficiency in the programs competencies by integrating learning from required courses to complete a final project. Must be taken during the learners final quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5538 or ED5730 or ED5440 or ED5712 or ED5808 or ED5570 or ED5574. For learners in MEd in Teaching & Learning ED5306 or RSCH7860, MS in Education innovation and Technology learners EDT5142 or ED5146.
6 quarter credits
Total
At least 46 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
This specialization is not designed to lead to license, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
Specialization course requirements
Complete at least 15 program points from the specialization courses shown below.
Show all descriptions
ED6484
Specialization Course Application of Learning Theories to Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
This course presents theories of learning and instruction providing empirical guidance for designing effective instructional solutions that target specific learning outcomes. Learners engage in a variety of readings, activities, discussions, and assignments to further develop an understanding of the foundational theories of learning and instruction and their applications to instructional design. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5343 or ED5342. Does not apply to MS Instructional Design for Online learning learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5808
Specialization Course Leading in Instructional Design and Technology
4 quarter credits
Learners acquire project management skills such as planning, evaluating, communicating, anticipating risks, applying ethical standards, and managing collaborative partnerships. Learners identify and apply the tools, methods, and processes used to effectively budget, implement, and manage e-learning development projects. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484
4 quarter credits
ED5813
Specialization Course Principles and Strategies of Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
Learners examine the process of instructional design and apply design research and theory while developing instructional strategies. Learners examine the systematic process of addressing the needs of the student, structuring the content, and applying principles of learning and instruction to create effective instructional content. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in ED5130; ED6484. ED6484 does not apply to MS Educ Innov and Tech learners.
4 quarter credits
ED6503
Specialization Elective Instructional Design Technologies
4 quarter credits
Learners apply theories and principles of instructional design and cognitive learning utilizing instructional media strategies. Learners also identify ethical, legal, and political implications of design in the workplace. Finally, learners examine software tools that developers and instructional designers use to create innovative e-learning experiences. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ED5340
Specialization Elective Theories and Principles of Adult Learning
4 quarter credits
Learners assess learning theories, models, and principles and their application to instructional processes for adult learners. Learners analyze the instructor's role in enhancing adult learning and evaluate their personal philosophy, dispositions, and ethics relative to teaching adult learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5130
Specialization Course Competency-Based Curriculum and Design
4 quarter credits
Learners gain an understanding of the differences between professional standards, outcomes, and competencies, and how they can be integrated into curriculum design. Learners build on this understanding, mapping competencies to outcomes and aligning standards to competencies and outcomes. Learners practice integrating competency-based curriculum and instructional content with best-practice instructional approaches to develop an environment that values diverse voices. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite(s): ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484. ED6484 does not apply to MS Educ Innov and Tech learners.
4 quarter credits
ED5805
Specialization Course Assessment and Analytics for Differentiated Instructional Design
4 quarter credits
Learners apply theories of constructivism, neurodiversity, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to assess student achievement in a competency-based, online learning setting. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5813 or ED5803 or EDT5104 or EDT5126; ED6484
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 45 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in Education, Reading and Literacy specialization from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.
Capstone courses
In your final quarter, complete a capstone course for a total of 6 quarter credits.
Show all descriptions
ED6950
Capstone Capstone for Master of Science in Education
6 quarter credits
In the capstone course, learners demonstrate proficiency in the programs competencies by integrating learning from required courses to complete a final project. Must be taken during the learners final quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning. Prerequisite: ED5538 or ED5730 or ED5440 or ED5712 or ED5808 or ED5570 or ED5574. For learners in MEd in Teaching & Learning ED5306 or RSCH7860, MS in Education innovation and Technology learners EDT5142 or ED5146.
6 quarter credits
Total
At least 46 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
This specialization is not designed to lead to license, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.
Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)
Core course requirements
Complete at least 24 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.
Show all descriptions
ED5146
Core Assessment and Evaluation in Education
4 quarter credits
Learners examine the background, context, and practice of assessment of student learning and evaluation of educational programs. They apply their knowledge to design an equitable and inclusive assessment plan that can be implemented in the classroom; and school or organizational level to promote improvement and accountability.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7860
Core Survey of Research Methods
4 quarter credits
Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest.
4 quarter credits
ED5010
Core Foundations of Master's Studies in Education
4 quarter credits
This course provides learners with opportunities to acquire and use graduate-level skills, including the ability to critically examine and apply relevant educational theory to professional practice. Learners develop expertise in scholarly writing as well as explore the importance of multicultural perspectives and diversity in professional contexts. Finally, learners articulate and examine their professional purpose and its alignment with their specialization and career aspirations. Must be taken alone during the first quarter by learners who have been admitted to the MS in Education program. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
ED5343
Core Multicultural and Inclusive Education
4 quarter credits
Learners evaluate multicultural theories by analyzing topics, such as cultural identity, cultural awareness, cultural competence, and apply these concepts to educational settings.
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 45 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in Education, Reading and Literacy specialization from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.
What can I expect in the courseroom?
Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.
Explore the Capella courseroom ->
How will I be graded?
Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.