How to Become an Instructional Designer (2024)

Everyone working in the field of education develops individual skills and attributes during their careers. Some educators discover a particular interest in designing educational experiences through creating curriculums and instructional materials. They also may enjoy overseeing teacher training and helping to introduce new learning technologies. The work of these instructional designers, also known as instructional coordinators or curriculum specialists, is informed by analyses of test scores and other data, often targeted at maintaining and improving learning standards.

If you want to know how to become an instructional designer, a master’s degree in education can be the first step. Consider earning an advanced degree online to prepare you for this career. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an M.A. in Education program that can be completed in two years.

Instructional designers usually have a master’s degree in education or a related field, as well as experience as teachers. The master’s in education program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers online students the option to specialize in curriculum and instruction.

When instructional designers work in a specific area, such as reading or biology, they may be required to have an academic degree in that field, depending on their employer. Usually, they have already earned a bachelor’s degree and have gained experience teaching and in school systems. Some have published research related to instructional design, providing analysis and theories related to program effectiveness. To advance in the field, they must have developed a portfolio with examples of their work that illustrate their accomplishments.

If working in public school systems, instructional designers or coordinators may be required to have a license. Each state imposes different standards and regulations.

These education professionals may specialize in specific age groups, including adult learners. Other areas of specialization include subject matter, types of learning platforms, curriculum oversight, and a focus on training the trainer. Instructional designers may work collaboratively with other education professionals, or they may develop programs on their own, using a variety of skill sets.

Instructional designers find work in public and private school systems, higher education, and in corporate settings. They may be employees of learning technology companies, or any other enterprise that designs online instructional materials to train consumers in the use of products and services.

Here are some typical duties and responsibilities of instructional designers:

• Plan curriculums for classes or programs of study and develop implementation strategies
• Assess current curriculums as they pertain to educational goals
• Evaluate the effectiveness of teaching techniques and lesson content
• Discuss standards with school officials, administrators, and teachers
• Organize conferences and workshops for training teachers and instructors
• Review available educational materials and make recommendations
• Research and propose options for educational technology
• Improve teacher skills through coaching and mentoring
• Introduce new educational programs to teaching staff
• Analyze data related to testing and test scores
• Determine the learning needs of specific groups
• Develop subject matter content for instructional materials

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