Get the Skills You Need
With an increased demand for qualified adult educators, this program can help you obtain a certificate intended to increase the knowledge and competence in designing and developing educational programs that are mediated by technology for adult learners in a variety of areas that include community-based education, workplace learning, human resources, healthcare education and higher education.
The certificate in Instructional Design and Technology offers convenience and flexibility by being able to complete the entire certificate online. Courses are offered in an online format for students who have additional commitments such as child and family care and/or demanding work schedules. The online format follows the same rigorous curricula as on-campus options, leading to similar advancement opportunities for our graduates. The certificate offers rolling admissions so interested students can apply at any time and if accepted, enroll in courses any semester. In addition, most of our courses can be taken in any sequence, which allows you to take coursework on your preferred timeline.
Time to Complete
You can graduate with the certificate within three semesters by taking two courses each semester. Students who need more time for personal and/or professional reasons have the flexibility to complete the certificate within a timeframe that meets their needs.
Credits
5 courses totaling 15 credits
Program Highlights
The certificate in Instructional Design and Technology prepares professionals who reflect our commitment to educational excellence for adults through teaching, research, and service. We are focused on leadership, social justice, and partnerships in addressing contemporary urban needs and our program’s goals reflect the college mission.
- Academic Excellence — As an academic community, we create and disseminate knowledge through teaching, research, and service that reflects the highest standards of educational excellence; serve as an intellectual community of learner-scholars; and value academic freedom, shared decision-making, inquiry, and integrity.
- Community/Collaboration — We value a collaborative culture within the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education that fosters: communities of learner-scholars; relationships with diverse populations; and partnerships with the urban community.
- Integrity — We promote integrity through our commitment to improving the lives of others; expectation of honest, truthful, and ethical teaching, learning, research, and professional practice; and consideration of people’s feelings and needs in what we do.
- Rigorous Intellectual Exchange — We foster and encourage ourselves and our constituents to create new knowledge and research; exercise reflective beliefs and practices; model ethical behaviors; and promote critical thinking.
- Leadership — We strive to use our leadership and expertise to take risks; act as a catalyst for innovative change; and work to make a difference.
- Passion — We value our commitment to improving the quality of life in our community through actions that reflect equity, diversity, and social justice; and demonstrate respect and passion for the human condition.
Learning Methodology
Students take five required courses (15 credit hours) that help enhance skills in:
- Group/team work
- Program planning and evaluation
- Adult learning theory
- Online curriculum design and instruction
- Diversity
Coursework consists of student-centered approaches to teaching and learning. This includes collaborative learning opportunities and discussions, critical reflection, and research projects that focus on real world application of course content. Our certificate encourages an in-depth and challenging learning environment which can be applied to one’s immediate and future work and life context.
Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor's degree
- Apply for admission to Cleveland State University.
Courses
After discussing career goals with a faculty advisor, each student must take all of the courses that align with their chosen track of specialization. ALD 689 also satisfies the exit requirement (15 credits).
Required Courses
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ALD 631 | Group Dynamics for Educational Leadership | 3 Credits |
| ALD 663 | Planning Programs for Adult Learners | 3 Credits |
| ALD 664 | Teaching Methods for Adult Learners | 3 Credits |
| ETE 690 | Designing Online Instruction | 3 Credits |
| ETE 691 | eLearning Tools and Techniques | 3 Credits |
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition and financial aid for CSU programs are kept competitive so you can receive the education you deserve. Tuition for online programs and courses follows the same fee structure as traditional, on-campus programs and courses. Current CSU Graduate tuition costs can be found on the Bursar’s website.
Approximately 70% of CSU’s students receive some form of financial assistance. The University participates in or administers all the major federal and state grant and loan programs. In addition, CSU provides University grants and scholarships.
To begin the financial aid process, you will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You must file a FAFSA every year after January 1st to receive your financial aid. Cleveland State University’s financial aid school code is 003032.
If you have any questions, visit the Financial Aid section of CSU’s website, or contact the Financial Aid office.
Faculty
Our faculty are accomplished in the field of adult education, higher education, workplace learning, and healthcare education. They have published books, have numerous articles published in top tier journals, and presented at international and national conferences.
Our scholar–practitioners are here to help you succeed by providing a supportive learning environment within the classroom setting as well as through mentoring outside the classroom. Faculty are available face-to-face and virtually to help you meet your educational and career goals through advising and mentoring experiences.
Student Success Coaching
At CSU, you will be paired with a Student Success Coach to support you on your journey from acceptance into a program to graduation. Coaches help with:
- Time management
- Study strategies
- Focus techniques
- Work-life balance
- Academic support resources
- Navigating University policies and procedures
- Resolving issues and locating the right resources
Student Success Coaches will reach out to you for a welcome call early in your program. Coaches can help you create an academic success plan with strategies and goals that will help you be successful. Student Success Coaches are available to you throughout your program. Student Success Coaches do not replace academic advisors or other counselors, but rather work as a team with them to provide you with all the right resources.
Career Outcomes
The certificate in Instructional Design and Technology focuses on professionals who are interested in designing and developing educational programs that are mediated by technology. This includes educators who are engaged in online instruction in higher education, training, and development, or community-based education geared toward adult learners. Emphasis will be on adult learning theories, online learning, instructional design, and program evaluation.
Individuals who are interested in designing and developing educational programs that are mediated by technology should choose the certificate and/or master’s degree in Instructional Design and Technology. This includes educators who are engaged in online instruction in higher education, training, and development, or community-based education geared toward adult learners. Emphasis will be on adult learning theories, online learning, instructional design, and program evaluation.
Students who choose the instructional design and technology specialization may pursue a career as a(n):
- Instructional designer
- Learning consultant
- Content developer
- Learning content manager
- Learning and development specialist
- Digital Learning Coordinator
- Technology specialist
- eLearning developer
- Corporate training developer
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have a certain undergraduate degree to be accepted into program?
No, if you have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited university, you will be considered for admission into the program.
What can I do with this certificate? What kind of job can I get?
You can work with adult learners in a variety of areas that include community-based education, workplace learning, human resources, healthcare education and higher education, for example, GED/HS Equivalency instructor, Instructional designer, Training and development facilitator, Healthcare educator, College admissions counselor or Academic advisor.
How long will it take me to complete the program?
Typically, students enroll in 1-2 courses (3-6 credit hours) a semester. You can graduate from the APHE program within five semesters by taking two courses each semester. Students who need more time for personal and/or professional reasons have the flexibility to complete the program within a timeframe that meets their needs.
Does the program require a thesis?
No, however, completing a thesis is one of the exit options.
Do you offer graduate assistantships?
Yes, however, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available so students must go through an application process.