MEd in Learning Media and Technology

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Program Overview

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning, Media, & Technology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst prepares students to understand, evaluate, design and improve the use of technology and media in teaching and learning. The program combines learning theories, instructional design and emerging technologies, including robotics, computational media, 3D printing, social media and multimedia, helping students develop innovative educational experiences for schools, universities, organizations and corporate environments.

Curriculum Structure:

The program requires 33 credit hours of coursework and a culminating master's project. Students work with a faculty advisor to develop a flexible program of study based on their academic interests and career goals. The curriculum includes two core courses, electives and advanced project work.

Year 1 – Foundations of Learning and Educational Technology:

Students build a strong understanding of learning theories and educational practices through EDUC 692K: Foundations & Theories of Learning, which explores psychological and sociocultural approaches to human learning. They also develop practical digital media skills through EDUC 615X: Designing Digital Media for Teaching & Learning, exploring instructional design models, multimedia principles, educational videos, animations, podcasts and interactive websites.

Year 2 – Specialization and Applied Learning:

Students expand their technical and instructional design expertise through electives such as EDUC 612: Educational Web Design: Creation & Evaluation, focusing on accessible educational websites and online learning modules, and EDUC 615GR: Teaching & Learning with Technology, examining how emerging technologies influence teaching and learning. They can also explore EDUC 647M: Making & Makerspaces in Education, gaining hands-on experience with creative tools, 3D printing and technology-supported learning environments. Students complete the program through EDUC 890C: Culminating Projects for LMT & DMDM, applying research and theoretical knowledge to an independent project.

Focus Areas:

Educational Technology, Instructional Design, Digital Media Production, Learning Theories, Multimedia Learning, Online Education, Educational Web Design, Educational Robotics, Computational Media, 3D Printing, Makerspaces in Education, Digital Storytelling, Technology Integration, Interactive Learning, Social Media in Education.

Learning Outcomes:

Understand psychological and sociocultural learning theories, design technology-supported learning experiences, develop educational digital media and interactive content, apply instructional design principles, evaluate educational technologies, create accessible online learning environments, integrate emerging technologies into teaching, conduct educational research, and develop innovative solutions to improve teaching and learning.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The program emphasizes practical and research-based preparation in educational technology, instructional design and digital learning. Students develop professional competencies through hands-on design projects, multimedia development and a culminating master's project. The university's program information does not specify a separate professional accreditation for this particular master's degree.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition):

The University of Massachusetts Amherst's College of Education provides students with opportunities to develop expertise in educational technology and digital learning through faculty-guided research and practical design experiences.

Career opportunities: Graduates have progressed into roles such as instructional designers, educational media developers, online learning developers and technology integration specialists.
Higher education leadership: Alumni have pursued leadership positions, including Director of Online Teaching and Learning.
Industry opportunities: Graduates work across K–12 schools, community colleges, universities, educational organizations and corporate environments.
Research progression: The program also provides a foundation for students interested in pursuing doctoral studies in Mathematics, Science and Learning Technologies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the MEd in Learning Media and Technology program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that translate theory into practice. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that will enhance your learning and prepare you for a successful career in educational technology. The program emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, internships, and the use of innovative digital tools, ensuring that you gain practical skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Collaborative Projects: Engage in group projects that allow you to work alongside peers, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for the education field.

- Internships: Gain real-world experience through internships with local schools, educational organizations, or tech companies, providing you with valuable insights and networking opportunities.

- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Articulate Storyline, and various Learning Management Systems (LMS) to create engaging educational content.

- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to educational technology conferences and workshops, where you can learn from experts and see the latest innovations in action.

- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology for developing and testing educational media and technology solutions.

- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from the extensive resources available at the UMass Libraries, including access to a vast collection of digital media and educational technology research materials.

- Institute for Learning and Teaching: Collaborate with faculty and peers at the Institute for Learning and Teaching, which focuses on advancing educational practices through technology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MEd in Learning Media and Technology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst prepares graduates for a dynamic career in educational technology and media. With a strong emphasis on innovative teaching practices and digital learning environments, graduates often find themselves in roles such as Instructional Designer, Educational Technology Specialist, or Curriculum Developer. This program equips you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving field:

- University Services: The UMass Amherst Career Services offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for education and technology fields. Additionally, the Learning Resource Center provides access to cutting-edge tools and resources to enhance your learning experience.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the MEd program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for roles in educational technology ranges from $60,000 to $85,000, depending on experience and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: UMass Amherst has established partnerships with leading organizations in the education sector, such as the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and various tech companies. These collaborations provide students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEd in Learning Media and Technology is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards of quality and is recognized nationally.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work in diverse settings, including K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and corporate training environments, demonstrating the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MEd, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Education (EdD) or a PhD in Educational Technology. These advanced degrees can open doors to leadership positions in academia, research, or policy-making, allowing you to further influence the field of education and technology.