WMU revamps online master’s in educational and instructional technology emphasizing real-world design, AI and prior learning credit

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Western Michigan University has announced significant enhancements to its fully online Master of Arts in Educational and Instructional Technology program, strengthening its emphasis on project-based learning, hands-on technology application, practicum-style experiences, artificial intelligence integration and expanded opportunities for professionals to earn credit for prior learning.

The program’s continued innovation reflects the Western Michigan University College of Education and Human Development’s national recognition. Most recently, it was ranked No. 45 in the nation and No. 2 in the state of Michigan for Best Online Master’s in Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report.

The redesigned program centers on applied, real-world learning. Coursework is deeply project-based, allowing students to use their current professional roles as the foundation for assignments and practicum experiences. This flexible structure enables working professionals to implement meaningful changes within their organizations while earning graduate credit toward their degree.

A streamlined and cohesive core curriculum ensures students develop expertise in instructional design, online learning development, multimedia production, learner-centered strategies, leadership and practical application. In response to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in education and workplace learning, the program now includes one required AI-focused course and an additional AI elective, equipping graduates to ethically and effectively integrate emerging technologies into instructional practice.

A hallmark of the program is its practicum-style experience, which mirrors professional instructional design workflows and connects students with real organizational challenges. Students may have the opportunity to collaborate with corporate and community partners, gaining hands-on experience under the mentorship of industry professionals.

One such collaboration is the Zoetis Instructional Design Practicum, offered in partnership with Zoetis. In this corporate setting, graduate students conduct needs analyses, develop multimedia learning materials using tools such as Articulate 360 and Canva, and evaluate training effectiveness through data. Experiences like this build technical expertise, strengthen professional networks and prepare students for careers in instructional design and workplace learning. The program continues to expand its portfolio of industry partnerships to provide students with diverse applied learning opportunities.

In addition to its applied design focus, the program now offers expanded opportunities for professionals to receive graduate credit for knowledge and skills they have already developed through their careers. Through Prior Learning Assessment, students may be able to earn up to 15 of the program’s 30 required graduate credits by demonstrating prior professional learning and experience.

Prior Learning Assessment allows students to document competencies gained through workplace training, professional certifications, leadership roles or other significant learning experiences. This option can reduce time to degree completion and recognize the expertise many working professionals bring into the program.

“Our goal is to ensure that every graduate leaves not only with deep theoretical knowledge, but with a portfolio of meaningful, real-world work,” said Dr. Jessica Heybach, associate dean for graduate studies and interim chair of the Department of Educational Leadership, Research and Technology. “By integrating hands-on design, leadership development, intentional AI preparation and flexible pathways like prior learning credit into a fully online format, we are equipping professionals to lead innovation in schools, organizations and corporate learning environments.”

For more information about the Master of Arts in Educational and Instructional Technology program, visit wmich.edu/leadership/edtech/masters.

To learn more about Prior Learning Assessment opportunities, visit wmich.edu/education/priorlearning.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.