MS in Learning Technologies and Design with Emphasis in Technology in Schools

About

For educators interested in upgrading their educational technology and leadership skills, the Master of Science in Learning Technologies and Design with Technology in Schools Emphasis explores the many ways technology can enrich the learning process. Courses introduce broader learning design theories, leadership strategies, and their applications in education. You’ll strengthen your ability to design and implement technology-rich learning experiences, evaluate and select the most effective tools for your learners, and cultivate the vision and leadership skills to guide others in making informed, impactful technology decisions.   

The School of Information Science and Learning Technologies (SISLT) is a proud member of iSchools, an international coalition of leading information schools. 

Degree Requirements

The program consists of 30 credit hours: 16 hours of required core courses, 6 hours of courses focused on the development of learning technologies and systems, and 8 hours of electives. Must include 15 credit hours of 9000-level courses. 

Required Core Courses16
IS_LT 7366Technology Leadership3
IS_LT 9467Technology to Enhance Learning3
IS_LT 9417Action Research3
IS_LT 9471Instructional Systems Design3
IS_LT 9450Research Methods in Information Science and Learning Technologies3
IS_LT 7378Technology in Schools and Learning Technology Portfolio Development1
Development Courses. Subject to advisor approval. Sample courses:6
IS_LT 7355Web Design and Development3
IS_LT 7361Introduction to Digital Media3
IS_LT 7383Rapid Prototyping for Learning and Information Systems3
Elective Courses. Subject to advisor approval, must be Learning Technologies & Design courses. 8
 

For additional information about planning your Program of Study, see theTechnology in Schools Emphasis (MS) andIS_LT courses pages. Classes are 100% online, but some classes have a synchronous (real-time interaction) component. Course registration materials will indicate whether a course has synchronous sessions and, if so, the meeting times.  

Sample Plan of Study

A student’s own plan of study will vary depending on their pace in the program and individual choices. A full-time graduate student takes 9 hours per semester, and part-time students may take 3 or 6 hours. Recommended first classes include IS_LT 9471 Instructional Systems Design and IS_LT 9450 Research Methods in Information Science and Learning Technologies, followed by other required courses. Some courses are offered biannually, so we recommend that students work with their advisor to create a plan of study that meets their expectations. The  Learning Technologies Tentative Course Rotation document indicates when each class will be offered. Program of Study (M-1) forms are available on the Learning Technologies Forms page.  

Thesis/Non-Thesis Requirements

No thesis is required for the MS in Learning Technologies and Design. 

Comprehensive Examination Process

Prior to graduation, all students must complete a Graduate Examination requiring them to demonstrate mastery of theLearning Technologies Program Outcomes. The assessment is the ePortfolio. ePortfolios support students’ ability to demonstrate thoughtful reflection on their time in the Program and what they learned. Students will include artifacts created as part of their coursework during the program and reflect on how each relates to their understanding of the program outcomes.Students enroll in IS_LT 7378 in their last semester to develop their ePortfolio.   

Admissions

For inquiries about the program or admissions process, contact our Student Services Office: 303 Townsend Hall, Columbia, MO 65211. Email: sislt@missouri.edu Phone: 877-747-5868 or 573-882-4546. 

Admission Requirements 

  • A GPA of 3.0 or higher (A=4.0) on the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work 
  • English language proficiency (international applicants only): TOEFL score of 4.5, IELTS score of 6.5, or equivalent score on an equivalent test accepted by the University of Missouri Graduate School. Please consult with the Graduate School’s Exemptions list to see whether you might be eligible for a waiver. 
  • GRE testing is not required 
  • If you don’t meet these standards, you might be admitted on probation status, where you would have to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 during your first 12 hours of graduate course work, with no grade lower than a B. 

How to Apply 

  • Prepare electronic versions of your resume, statement of purpose (what you hope your degree will do for you), two letters of recommendation, and an official copy of your transcript. 
  • Apply using MU’s online Graduate Application system. Follow the instructions and upload the requested files. 

Deadlines 

  • May 1 for summer admission. 
  • July 1 for fall admission. 
  • September 1 for second 8-week fall courses. 
  • December 1 for spring admission. 
  • February 1 for second 8-week spring courses. 

Admission Decisions 

Once all your application materials are complete, we will review them and notify you of the decision. Most decisions are made within 1-2 months of the admissions deadline.