Educational Technology Leadership Programs
Integrating Strategic Leadership with Online Learning and Instructional Design Expertise
Technology has become a critical tool for effective teaching and for designing educational materials that cater to diverse learners across every learning environment (school systems, corporate training, government, etc.).
GW’s Educational Technology Leadership (ETL) program leads the way in preparing teachers, trainers, instructional designers, leaders, and other professionals to design and implement technology-enhanced learning experiences. Students will explore the organizational, cultural, ethical, and legal implications of technology use in education.
As a pioneer of distance-learning methods and a top-ranked program by U.S. News & World Report, our innovative online program provides a world-class education taught by expert faculty and the convenience of learning from your location.
Master's Degree in Educational Technology Leadership
This 30-credit hour program will equip you with the knowledge, skills and leadership abilities to drive educational innovation through technology integration. Course curriculum embeds core elements of emerging educational technology, educational research methods, instructional/curriculum design, project management, and leadership strategies that foster innovative and effective learning environments. Learn to promote digital citizenship, incorporating an understanding of data privacy and security concerns, among students, teachers, and other stakeholders.
Graduate Certificate in Educational Technology Leadership
Prepare to lead educational technology initiatives, evaluate their impact on learning outcomes, and create engaging learning environments that leverage the power of educational technology. This 12-credit hour certificate in ETL* is ideal for those who are ready to build on their foundational skills as an educator, instructional supervisor, or a similar background to advance in a role or leadership position in an ed tech environment.
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
Our 12-credit hour certificate in Instructional Design* will prepare you with the foundational knowledge and skills to lead all phases of instructional design projects in diverse organizational settings. Learn to assess needs, analyze learning objectives, and apply design theories, principles, models, tools and techniques to the development, implementation, evaluation, and ongoing management of effective instructional programs.
Dual Degree: Master's + Graduate Certificate
Select one of the graduate certificate programs to coincide with the master's program. The certificate is awarded after the completion of the required 12-credit hours, allowing you to gain credentials and advance in your field faster. Learn more about graduate certificates and the advantages of the dual degree program below.*
- * Graduate Certificate Overview
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A graduate certificate from GW is a short-term program of study that focuses on a specific area of knowledge or skill. It is designed for students who have already earned a bachelor's degree and want to acquire additional knowledge or credentials in a particular field. Graduate certificates require fewer courses and less time than a full master's degree program, and can often be completed in one year or less if your schedule allows. The GW certificate programs provide you with specialized knowledge and skills that can help you more quickly advance your career or pursue further education.
The Educational Technology Leadership (ETL) master's and graduate certificate programs share the same courses. Upon successful completion of a certificate, students may apply to the ETL master’s program, and if accepted and all requirements are met, transfer all credits earned. Since application requirements are somewhat different, acceptance to a certificate program does not guarantee acceptance to the master's program.
Students in graduate certificate programs are not eligible for GSEHD provided or federal funding, along with many other financial aid opportunities. However, you can enroll in a dual degree program to earn both a certificate and a master’s degree, allowing you to apply only once and to be eligible for federal funding for the entirety of the program.
Accessible + Accredited
The Educational Technology Leadership programs, accredited by the Middle States Commission of Higher Education, are offered fully online, providing flexibility for your busy schedule and making this program available to you wherever you are in the world.
Tradition of Excellence
As one of the first online programs in the U.S., our program is celebrating 30+ years in leading cutting edge developments in instructional design and technology. U.S. News & World Report ranked our program #13 for Best Online Educational/Instructional Media Design Programs.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Students gain practical experience by integrating coursework and hands-on projects with their day-to-day professional roles, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, students actively engage with other industry professionals in the development of instructional design proficiencies.
The GW Advantage
Our expert faculty ensure a dynamic curriculum and engaging online participation, along with a leadership emphasis, providing you with a cutting-edge education to prepare you for a career across diverse industries. You’ll gain real-world experience through applied projects, readying you to go beyond the role of technician, and become a manager and leader who is able to make important learning decisions.
Department:
Educational Leadership
Course Delivery:
Online
Program Entry:
Spring, Summer, Fall
- Degrees Awarded
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- Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in the Field of Educational Technology Leadership
- Dual Degree: Master of Arts in Education and Human Development and Graduate Certificate in the Field of Educational Technology Leadership
- Dual Degree: Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in the Field of Educational Technology Leadership and Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
- Graduate Certificate in Educational Technology Leadership
- Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
- Our Mission + Program Outcomes
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Our ETL programs provide students with leadership skills that allow alumni to successfully improve human performance and learning through technology. The curriculum is focused on teaching skills that will promote:
- The design, development, and delivery of truly effective learning experiences.
- The development of leaders in the global expansion of educational technology and distance education.
- An emphasis on practical technology applications in corporate, governmental, and educational settings.
- The effective management and leadership of projects, teams, and learning organizations.
As a graduate of our Educational Technology Leadership programs, you will:
- Lead your organization with a broad view of technologies and the results they can achieve.
- Solve complex challenges using systematic evidence-based approaches.
- Manage teams and projects that achieve meaningful results.
- Design solutions that leverage today's - and tomorrow's - technologies.
- Curriculum: Master's + Dual Degree
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The following requirements must be fulfilled: 30 credits, including 24 credits in required courses and 6 credits in elective courses.
Course List Code Title Required EDUC 6114 Introduction to Quantitative Research EDUC 6368 Leadership and Education EDUC 6401 Foundations in Educational Technology EDUC 6402 Trends and Issues in Emerging Technologies EDUC 6403 Educational Hardware Systems EDUC 6404 Computer Applications and Project Management EDUC 6405 Designing Digital Learning EDUC 6406 Instructional Design Electives Select two of the following: EDUC 6422 Instructional Needs Assessment and Analysis EDUC 6425 Developing Effective Training with Technology EDUC 6426 Computer Interface Design for Learning EDUC 6427 Advanced Instructional Design EDUC 6428 Developing Digital Professional Portfolios - Curriculum: Graduate Certificate in Educational Technology Leadership
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The following requirements must be fulfilled: 12 credit hours in required courses.
Course List Code Title Required EDUC 6401 Foundations in Educational Technology EDUC 6406 Instructional Design EDUC 6404 Computer Applications and Project Management or EDUC 6428 Developing Digital Professional Portfolios or EDUC 6425 Developing Effective Training with Technology or EDUC 6403 Educational Hardware Systems EDUC 6405 Designing Digital Learning or EDUC 6402 Trends and Issues in Emerging Technologies or EDUC 6368 Leadership and Education - Curriculum: Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
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The following requirements must be fulfilled: 12 credit hours in required courses.
Course List Code Title Required EDUC 6405 Designing Digital Learning EDUC 6406 Instructional Design EDUC 6422 Instructional Needs Assessment and Analysis or EDUC 6426 Computer Interface Design for Learning EDUC 6427 Advanced Instructional Design
Apply Now
GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at education@gwu.edu or 202-994-9283.
| Apply Now | Schedule Consultation with Admissions Counselor |
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To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.
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Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
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Resume
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Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
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Statement of Purpose
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One Letter of Recommendation (preferably from a faculty member or professional supervisor)
*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants.
View more details about requirements:
- Master's/Dual Degree Programs
- Graduate Certificate in ETL
- Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
For more information on any of these requirements, please visit our Admissions FAQs page.
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Applications are now being accepted for Spring 2024. For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at education@gwu.edu or 202-994-9283.
| Application Timeline | Spring | Summer | Fall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Deadline | Aug 1 | Nov 1 | Nov 1 |
| Round 1 Deadline | Sept 15 | Dec 15 | Dec 15 |
| Round 2 Deadline | Nov 1 | Jan 16 | Jan 16 |
| Round 3 Deadline | Dec 15 | March 1 | March 1 |
| Round 4 Deadline | N/A | May 1 | May 1 |
| Round 5 Deadline | N/A | N/A | June 15 |
| Round 6 Deadline | N/A | N/A | Aug 1 |
Tuition & Financial Aid
We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.
Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.
The tuition rate* for the online programs in Educational Technology Leadership program is $950 per credit hour.
- The Master's degree and the dual Master's/GC programs require 30 credits.
- The Graduate Certificate in ETL requires 12 credits.
- The Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design requires 12 credits.
Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.
*Summer 2023, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Scholarships are available to eligible admitted students for the master's and dual degree programs. Scholarships are not offered for students only enrolled in a graduate certificate program. Review eligibility requirements and learn more about funding your education >
The fact that GSEHD’s ETL program is completely online provides accessibility and quality to individuals who want to pursue more education without leaving their paid, full-time or part-time positions.
JULIE LINDSAY
Founder and CEO | Flat Connections
Master’s in Education and Human Development, Educational Technology Leadership
Career Outlook
To reach today's learners effectively, educators need foundational knowledge and skills in how to integrate technology into instruction to enhance student learning, knowledge and skills. With a curriculum that is founded on the latest research-based approaches to education, technology and leadership, this program will equip you with the necessary skills to navigate the rapidly changing global environment of jobs in educational technology and to successfully guide the future of learning and technology in your organization.
- ETL Career Opportunities
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Training and Development Manager
Professionals in this position examine training and educational programs available to their company’s employees. Once they’ve chosen the most beneficial options, they are responsible for planning and executing the programs to ensure all employees have the proper knowledge to succeed in their careers.- Earned a median $120,130 annual salary in 20211
Instructional Coordinator
These professionals develop effective curriculums and teaching materials to be utilized by educators and principles in elementary, middle and high schools. Their roles often involve analyzing data to determine the effectiveness of academic programs and materials.- Earned a median $63,740 annual salary in 20212
Additional Career Opportunities
- Curriculum developer
- Director or manager of e-learning, training or instructional services
- Educational technology specialist/coordinator for a school, county or district
- E-learning developer or specialist
- HR training specialist
- Instructional designer
- Instructional technology supervisor
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Training and Development Managers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/training-and-development-managers.htm (visited March 16, 2023).
2Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Instructional Coordinators, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm (visited March 16, 2023).
- Instructional Design Career Opportunities
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- Instructional designer
- Curriculum developer
- Technical writer: Practitioners earned a median $78,060 per year in 2021.3
3Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Technical Writers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/technical-writers.htm (visited March 03, 2023).
- Potential Employment Settings
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- Companies/Organizations/Associations
- PreK-12 Schools and Districts
- Colleges and Universities
- Non-profit Organizations
- Government Agencies
- Military/Armed Forces
