Instructional Technology and Media
The Master of Arts in Instructional Technology and Media provides an academically rich foundation for students who want to understand how digital tools, learning design, and modern media can be integrated to improve teaching and training outcomes. The curriculum emphasizes the relationship between theory and practice, enabling learners to explore instructional design models, data informed decision making, user experience considerations, and multimedia production techniques at an advanced level. Throughout the program, students develop instructional design, media literacy, digital pedagogy, and technology integration competencies that support innovation across educational and organizational settings.
This one year, full time and on campus program offers an immersive environment where students engage with faculty members who conduct research on educational media, cognitive learning processes, and the strategic use of technology in diverse learning contexts. Through collaborative coursework, hands on production activities, and research driven projects, learners gain practical insight into designing effective digital experiences for classrooms, training programs, and online platforms. The program’s structure encourages critical thinking, reflective practice, and the development of applied research, media creation, learning analysis, and digital strategy skills that equip graduates for evolving demands in technology enhanced education.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Instructional Technology and Media
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Information Technology (IT)
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Instructional Design and Educational Media
• Introduction to Instructional Technology
• Learning Theories and Design Principles
• Digital Media Production
• Research Methods in Education
Semester 2 – Advanced Applications and Integrated Development
• Technology Integration in Learning Environments
• Multimedia Design for Education
• Data Driven Instructional Improvement
• Capstone Project in Instructional Technology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program enter a field where the need for specialists who understand technology supported learning continues to grow, allowing them to pursue roles in instructional design, e learning development, training and development, digital curriculum design, and other technology centered educational pathways. Many graduates work in schools, universities, EdTech companies, corporate learning departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations where their ability to evaluate tools, design customized digital learning solutions, manage technology based projects, and analyze instructional needs provides a clear professional advantage. They may contribute to the creation of online courses, multimedia learning modules, assessment systems, or workforce training programs while applying knowledge in user experience, accessibility, content strategy, and interactive design. This background supports career advancement into senior design positions, educational leadership roles, consultancy, or research driven work that shapes how digital environments influence learning across global sectors.
Why Choose This Program
Students are drawn to this program because it merges advanced media practice, instructional design depth, research informed learning, and technology driven strategy within a concentrated academic format that balances theory with practical application. The curriculum encourages students to experiment with emerging technologies, refine their creative production abilities, and build a strong professional portfolio that demonstrates their capability in designing effective digital learning experiences. Guided by faculty who contribute to ongoing scholarship in digital education, students gain exposure to real world challenges and develop analytical perspectives that allow them to propose innovative solutions. The program also fosters collaboration, critical inquiry, and reflective practice, preparing graduates to become adaptable professionals capable of leading digital transformation efforts in educational institutions, corporate learning environments, and technology focused organizations worldwide.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
