Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Boston College

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology at Boston College prepares students to design engaging, interactive, and technology-enhanced learning experiences for schools, businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. The 30-credit program combines learning sciences, instructional design, user experience design, educational technology, and applied research, making it suitable for students interested in transforming how people learn through innovative technologies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundational Studies: Students explore learning theories and design principles through Introduction to the Learning Sciences (FORM 7230), Design of Formative Experiences (FORM 7210), and Educating the Whole Person (FORM 7200). They also study Research Design in Formative Education (FORM 7340) and Experience Design (FORM 7320), developing skills in user research, prototyping, and learning environment design.

Year 2 – Specialization and Applied Practice: Students select electives in learning technologies, curriculum design, and research methods, including Tech Tools for Playful Learning (FORM 6150), Designing Learning Environments in a Social and Digital World (EDUC 7308), and Data Visualization and Storytelling (MESA 8417). They complete Applied Experiences in Learning, Design, and Technology (FORM 7360), a practical capstone involving research, product development, or learning environment design.

The program requires 30 credits across 10 courses and can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time. The university does not prescribe a fixed year-wise course sequence.

Focus Areas

Learning sciences, instructional design, user experience design, educational technology, digital learning environments, curriculum development, learning analytics, interactive learning, design thinking, educational research.

Learning Outcomes

Design technology-rich learning experiences, apply learning theories, develop interactive educational environments, conduct user research, create and evaluate prototypes, integrate emerging technologies, analyse educational research, improve learner engagement, lead educational innovation.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program follows an interdisciplinary approach combining learning sciences, technology, research, and human-centred design. It is STEM-designated and eligible for the STEM OPT extension for qualifying international students. Specific professional program accreditation is not stated.

Reputation (Employability)

Boston College reports approximately 35,400 projected annual U.S. job openings through 2032 in relevant educational and training occupations. The university also cites a $72,520+ median annual salary for educational training and development specialists in 2023, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data. These figures represent related occupational categories, not guaranteed program graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Boston College, the Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology program is designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences that bridge theory and practice. You'll have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge tools and technologies that are essential for modern learning environments. The program emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that you not only learn but also apply your knowledge in real-world contexts.

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

- Collaborative Projects: Work alongside peers on group projects that simulate real-world challenges in learning design and technology.
- Internships: Gain valuable experience through internships with local schools, educational organizations, and tech companies, allowing you to apply your skills in professional settings.
- 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 innovative educational institutions and tech companies, providing insights into the latest trends and practices in learning design.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated labs equipped with the latest technology for research and development in learning design, allowing you to experiment and innovate.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from the extensive resources available at the Boston College libraries, including access to academic journals, databases, and a wealth of materials related to education and technology.
- Institute for Learning and Teaching: Engage with the Institute for Learning and Teaching, which offers workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology at Boston College prepares graduates for a dynamic career landscape, equipping them with the skills to excel in various roles such as Instructional Designer, Educational Technology Specialist, and Learning Experience Designer. Graduates are well-positioned to make a significant impact in educational institutions, corporate training environments, and beyond:

- University Services: Boston College offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from this program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for roles in this field ranges from $60,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and location.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Boston College has established partnerships with leading organizations in education and technology, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), ensuring that the curriculum meets high standards and is recognized by employers.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work at prestigious institutions and companies, contributing to innovative projects that shape the future of learning.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology, students have the opportunity to pursue further studies, such as a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in Learning Technologies. This advanced education can open doors to leadership roles in academia, research, and policy-making, allowing graduates to influence the future of education on a larger scale.