Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning, Design, and Technology – Research-Oriented Learning Design
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning, Design, and Technology – Research-Oriented Learning Design
I’m passionate about teaching because it allows me to share my enthusiasm for learning experience design while guiding students toward meaningful and impactful careers.
Associate Professor
Overview
Gain the skills you need to advance your career with the University of Georgia’s online Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology degree program. The M.Ed. in Learning, Design, and Technology supports students in learning the latest technologies and tools to design and implement lessons and training programs.
The program prepares professionals to identify and analyze learning problems and then create and implement more effective designs for learning to address these needs. The research and development-oriented master’s degree track is designed to prepare candidates for doctoral-level study in educational technology research and for careers in academia and research.
UGA’s distinguished Learning, Design, and Technology faculty demonstrate the art and science of using emerging technologies and media to develop highly effective instruction tools and support materials for face-to-face and online learning environments.
How Long Does It Take To Earn A Research-Oriented Master’s In Learning, Design, and Technology?
Students pursuing the degree full-time can complete the degree in four semesters. This 100% online M.Ed is offered in a cohort structure and consists of a minimum of 36 semester hours.
What Are The Benefits Of A Research-Oriented Master’s In Learning, Design, and Technology?
This online research-oriented master’s degree in learning, design, and technology provides a flexible and convenient way to earn a degree while still meeting the demands of your busy schedule.
By earning an online master’s, you can change the trajectory of your career, pursue advancement in your current role, or continue on to doctoral studies.
As a student in the online research-oriented learning, design, and technology master’s program, you will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of products that reflects the skills you have developed and the knowledge you have gained within the program. By the time you graduate, you will have accumulated several artifacts that you can use to showcase your work or be better prepared to enter a doctoral program in learning, design, and technology.
What Can I Do With A Research-Oriented Master’s In Learning, Design, and Technology?
Graduates of the University of Georgia’s online research-oriented learning, design, and technology degree program are prepared to pursue doctoral studies and careers such as:
- Instructional Designer
- Learning Scientist
- Educational Researcher
- Director of Training and Development
- Director of Teaching and Learning
Why Choose UGA’s Research-Oriented Master’s In Learning, Design, and Technology?
Offered through the Mary Frances Early College of Education, the online M.Ed. in Learning, Design, & Technology program was ranked #3 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in 2023, and the University of Georgia’s online Master’s in Education programs are ranked #7 in the nation by the same publication.
As an online graduate of the University of Georgia, you become part of an extensive alumni network and a longstanding tradition of striving for excellence in every pursuit.
For over two hundred years, we have been on a mission of leadership and service, and today, we are ranked #16 among the nation’s top public institutions by U.S. News & World Report.
Online students are granted the same access to online resources, career services, library services, and technical support as all enrolled University of Georgia students to help ensure that you are equipped for success in every way.
Accreditations
The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. The University of Georgia also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Georgia may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Admissions
The Research-Oriented Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology is accepting applications for Fall 2027.
Credit and Transfer
Total Hours Required to Earn Degree: 36 (credit hours)
Maximum Hours Transferable into Program: 6
Master’s In Instructional Design and Technology – Instructional Design & Development Admission Requirements
Students are admitted in the fall and spring semesters. All students holding a bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by the proper regional accrediting association are eligible to apply to the research-oriented Learning, Design, and Technology program. Applicants need to be fluent in basic computer skills and have proficient English language communication skills.
1. Application – Submit the Graduate School Admissions online. Application fee: $75 (waived for US veterans).
2. Select Campus – Online
3. Select Intended Program – MED, Learning, Design, & Technology [MED_LEDT_ONL]
4. Select Area of Emphasis – Research-Oriented Learning Design (ROLD)
5. Résumé or curriculum vitae – Upload to the Graduate School application.
6. Goal Statement – Submit online to the Graduate School. The applicants should provide an overview of who you are (e.g., your background, interests, etc.), why you want the Research-Oriented Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology, what you plan/hope to do as a result of having the degree and how you see this degree contributing to your professional and personal goals. Be sure to describe your current research interests.
6. Official GRE scores.
7. Transcripts – Upload unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended to the Graduate School application. Send official transcripts after you are offered admission.
8. Letters of Recommendation – Submit three letters of recommendation online to graduate school. Letters should be from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s scholarly ability and potential for success in a graduate program. Preferably, at least two of them are from faculty who have instructed the applicant in a previous program of study. The application will prompt your recommenders to submit their letters electronically.
9. International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Have official entrance exam scores sent to the UGA Graduate School by the testing service. Specify UGA as the recipient of the scores, institutional code for ETS reporting: 5813
Application Deadlines
Domestic Applicants
Fall: July 1
Spring: November 1
International Applicants
Fall: April 15
Spring: October 15
Cost
Tuition & Fees
Please use the Estimated Cost Calculator on the Bursar’s Office website to calculate one academic (Fall/Spring) year’s tuition.
Fees for those students enrolled in exclusively online programs are $422 per semester.
Potential additional costs include:
- Textbooks
- Exam proctoring fees
- Technology upgrades
The complete cost of attendance can be found at the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Financial Aid
Visit the Office of Student Financial Aid for information about financial assistance.
Corporate Assistance
Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.
Military Assistance
Active-duty military, veterans, and military families should visit Veterans Educational Benefits to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.
University System of Georgia Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
The purpose of TAP is to foster the professional growth and development of eligible employees. For more information, see Tuition Assistance (refer to the Distance Learning section).
Technology Requirements
- Computer with current operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux). Additional peripherals such as webcam, headphones, and microphone are required.
- High-speed internet access.
Curriculum
Students must maintain a 3.0 average in all graduate courses in their program of study.
Research-Oriented Learning, Design, and Technology Courses
Students seeking this degree will take the following courses:
| Course | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| EDIT 6170E | Introduction to Instructional Systems Design | 3 |
| EDIT 6190E | Design Thinking and Development Tools | 3 |
| EDIT 6900E | Research Methods in Instructional Technology | 3 |
| EDIT 7150E | Human Performance Technology and Analysis | 3 |
| EDIT 7190E | Design Thinking and Innovation in Learning, Design, and Technology | 3 |
| EDIT 7350E | Evaluation and Analytics in Instructional Design | 3 |
| EDIT 7520E | Online Teaching and Learning | 3 |
| EDIT 7630E | Review of Educational Technology Research | 3 |
| EDIT 6300E | Applied Statistical Methods in Education | 3 |
| EDIT 7000E | Masters Research | 6 |
Research Elective: Students must choose 1 course from the following:
| Course | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ERSHA 6600E | Applied Educational Assessment | 3 |
| ETAP (QUAL) (ERSH) 7500E | Action Research | 3 |
| ERSH 7600E | Construction of Educational Measuring Instruments | 3 |
| Total | 36 |
Faculty
News & Events
Upcoming Virtual Info Sessions for UGA’s Learning, Design, and Technology Programs
April 13, 2026If you’re considering an online graduate program in Learning, Design, and Technology, these upcoming virtual information sessions are a great place to start. Each session offers a brief (40–60 minute) overview of the Ed.D. and M.Ed. programs with an emphasis in Instructional Design and Development. Sessions are held online and led by LDT faculty involved in the programs.
UGA Online Programs Ranked Among 2025 Best by U.S. News and World Report
January 23, 2025The University of Georgia’s online degree programs are among the nation’s best, according to U.S. News and World Report’s 2025 Best Online Programs rankings released Jan. 21. Several of UGA’s programs placed in the top 10 in the annual survey, which recognizes bachelor’s and master’s degree programs as well as specialties within certain programs. The survey ranks higher education institutions on criteria including engagement, services and technology, faculty credentials and peer assessment.
US News Ranks UGA Online Programs Among Nation’s Best
February 7, 2024U.S. News & World Report released their 2024 Best Online Programs rankings with several of the University of Georgia online programs in the top 10.
Contact Information
Complete the Request for Information form below, and your request will be sent to Jill Stefaniak, Ph.D. Program Coordinator for the Learning, Design, & Technology program.
Contact us using the request for information form or call 706-452-7940.