Ed.D. Instructional Design and Technology
Choose a concentration in Performance Technology or Instructional Technology.
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Request InfoInstructional Design and Technology, Ed.D. Overview
The University of West Florida’s newly expanded, fully online Doctor of Education in Instructional Design and Technology is for professionals who want to effectively apply research and theory to achieve educational goals and improve performance in a variety of settings. This program prepares graduates to fulfill leadership roles related to organizational development, technology integration and workplace learning across sectors.
UWF’s online doctorate in instructional design and technology offers two concentrations: Performance Technology and Instructional Technology. The Performance Technology concentration investigates how organizational analysis, the principles of change management and systems thinking can be used to improve performance and learning in various organizational settings. The Instructional Technology concentration helps to develop expertise in the theoretical constructs and best practices associated with the design, development, implementation, evaluation and administration of instructional systems.
Core coursework provides foundational knowledge related to the theory and practice of instructional design and technology. Courses will guide you through analyzing the organizational learning system; determining the instructional goals; designing, developing and implementing solutions for reaching those goals and evaluating the effectiveness of those solutions. Built-in residencies allow you to foster personal relationships with faculty, fellow students and others in the industry. Despite the fully online nature of this program, you will feel fully engaged in an active learning community.
Ideal for working professionals, the instructional design and technology Ed.D. complements current job responsibilities while providing expanded career options. In addition to careers in K–12 and higher education, graduates from UWF’s online Ed.D. in instructional design and technology program are prepared for roles in healthcare, government, U.S. military, business and corporate positions or any setting where there is a need to improve organizational performance, integrate technology and/or facilitate workplace learning.
Candidates for This Program Include:
- Education and training professionals
- Community college, state college and university personnel
- Social and health-related personnel
- Community civic leaders
You Will Be Able To:
- Apply theoretical and empirical best practices to create solutions that resolve complex organizational and individual performance problems
- Generate action research studies utilizing appropriate quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods strategies
- Diagnose and conceptualize solutions for individual and organizational performance problems
- Critically evaluate inferences drawn from empirical research and practice in the field of instructional design and technology
- Apply ethical practices in professional interactions and when conducting research studies
- Develop logical, well-reasoned arguments to guide future research endeavors and projects in the field
- Disseminate research findings and recommendations to culturally diverse stakeholders using appropriate modalities
The University of West Florida is a member institution of the Carnegie Project for the Education Doctorate (CPED). This selective membership includes colleges and universities committed to undertaking a critical examination on the education doctorate through dialog, experimentation, critical feedback, and evaluation.
Courses and Requirements
The program consists of 48 credit hours of coursework (plus 18 hours of dissertation credit hours). Coursework includes 18 credit hours in the instructional design and technology core and 18 credit hours of research core courses. This common core provides you with foundational knowledge related to the theory and practice of instructional design and technology. Students select the remaining 12 hours of coursework from one of two areas of emphasis: Performance Technology or Instructional Technology. To complete your degree, you will write a dissertation that will be reviewed by a committee of faculty.
- EME 7609 - Principles of Instructional Systems Design
3 Credit Hours
Principles of Instructional Systems Design
Students will examine the use of instructional systems design models to create instruction that is appropriate from a pedagogical and practical viewpoint. Theories and models to support the design of instruction for use in a variety of instructional formats will be emphasized. Focus areas will include analysis, instructional goals and objectives, assessment, instructional strategies and the role of formative evaluation in instructional design. Students will apply theories and best practices to design a pedagogically sound instructional product.
- EME 7676 - Theoretical Foundations of ID, IT and PT
3 Credit Hours
Theoretical Foundations of ID, IT and PT
Examination of the theoretical foundations of the fields of instructional design, instructional technology, and performance technology. Students will research, discuss, and critique systems, communication, and learning theories and their relationships to instructional and performance technology research and practice. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to select and apply appropriate theories to solve instructional and performance technology related problems.
- EME 7685 - Research-Based Models of ID, IT and PT
3 Credit Hours
Research-Based Models of ID, IT and PT
Examination of the research-based models that guide practice in the fields of instructional design, instructional technology, and performance technology. Students will research, discuss, and critique instructional design models, technology integration models, and performance technology models and their applications. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to select and apply appropriate models to solve instructional and performance technology related problems.
- EME 7692 - Doctoral Seminar—Scholarly Writing in IDT
3 Credit Hours
Doctoral Seminar—Scholarly Writing in IDT
Focuses on the development of individual scholarly writing skills using structured feedback in a peer review process. Students will work individually to build writing competency by creating a literature review. Students will then review and critique individual writings by working in small peer groups, facilitated by faculty scholars and academic writing coaches.
- EME 8608 - IDT Foundations, Issues and Trends
3.0 Credit Hours
IDT Foundations, Issues and Trends
Examines the history and evolution of the field of instructional design and technology and its relationship to the related fields of educational technology and human performance technology. Examines current issues and trends influencing the field. Focuses heavily on research, critical thinking and communication skills.
- EME 8693 - Doctoral Seminar—Analysis and Dissemination of IDT Research
3 Credit Hours
Doctoral Seminar—Analysis and Dissemination of IDT Research
Critical examination of strategies used to structure research studies and disseminate findings in the field of IDT. Students will examine published journal articles, conference proposals, and conference presentations to identify best-practices related to the dissemination of research in IDT. This course will include a residency requirement, to be held in conjunction with a professional conference/convention, allowing students to observe multiple research presentations and interact with scholars in their field. Following the residency students will develop a proposal to be submitted for presentation at a future conference.
- EME 7609 - Principles of Instructional Systems Design
- EDF 7404 - Quantitative Methods and Educational Statistics I
3.0 Credit Hours
Quantitative Methods and Educational Statistics I
Designed as an entry-level course in statistics and covers both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to solve applied research problems. Emphasis is also placed on using statistical software packages and will cover the most widely used statistical procedures in education. This course presumes an understanding of basic statistics. Thus, students should complete the online statistics tutorial before enrolling. Prerequisite: EDF 7938
- EDF 7407 - Quantitative Methods and Educational Statistics II
3.0 Credit Hours
Quantitative Methods and Educational Statistics II
This course is designed as an intermediate statistics course for students who work in applied settings in education and the social sciences. Prerequisite: EDF 7404
- EDF 7475 - Qualitative Research I - Methods
3.0 Credit Hours
Qualitative Research I - Methods
This course is to prepare doctoral students for the process of designing scholarly research in general and their dissertation in particular. This course will guide students in constructing a qualitative design methodology section and developing the necessary skills required for critical evaluation of published research in their area of expertise. In addition, this course will provide insight to conducting ethical research and will guide students in identifying and designing a study using qualitative methods approach. The course focuses on the design and implementation of research that utilizes qualitative data collection and analysis.
- EDF 7489 - Mixed Methods Research Design
3.0 Credit Hours
Mixed Methods Research Design
Identify a potential dissertation topic, analyze and synthesize research on the topic, and produce a concept paper for the dissertation to be presented to the dissertation committee. Study the application of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies towards addressing a research problem. Apply concepts from educational research in synthesizing current research articles for the development of a research project. Gain expertise in educational research that will facilitate student research agendas for action research, thesis research, and dissertation research.
- EME 7618 - Instructional Design and Technology Research
3 Credit Hours
Instructional Design and Technology Research
This course provides an introduction to the design of research studies in the field of instructional design and technology. Aspects of research design and associated methodologies will be explored. Critical analysis of the research literature will highlight trends for problems and issues warranting further investigation. The quality and rigor of research will be emphasized, including research validity, methods of data collection and analysis, conclusions drawn from evidence, and ethical standards.
- EME 7695 - Action Research in IDT
3 Credit Hours
Action Research in IDT
This course will prepare students to conduct IDT related action research in their individual organizational settings. Students will examine the concepts, processes, and components of action research studies, including problem identification, study design, data source identification, data analysis, and results reporting. Action research is presented as a disciplined process of inquiry for the dissertation in practice.
- EDF 7404 - Quantitative Methods and Educational Statistics I
*Tracks, options, and concentrations are an informal designation used by graduate programs to indicate areas of emphasis and research, but have no formal significance. They do not appear on the student transcript and diploma.
Instructional Technology Track (12 credit hours)
- EME 7067 - Emerging Technologies—Analysis and Implementation
3 Credit Hours
Emerging Technologies—Analysis and Implementation
Students will investigate various emerging technologies and explore how those technologies can be integrated into instructional settings. Explorations will include the technologies available, which technology is most appropriate for given instructional situations, how to effectively use the technology to support instruction, and the impact of the technology on instruction.
- EME 7068 - Technology-Based Learning Theory and Research
3 Credit Hours
Technology-Based Learning Theory and Research
Students develop a comprehensive picture of the research and theory related to the field of technology-based learning. Theoretical, historical, empirical, and philosophical perspectives are investigated as students delve into the various aspects of technology-based learning and related research. Students learn to critically analyze how theory and research influence practice.
- EME 7075 - Distance Learning Design and Development Leadership
3 Credit Hours
Distance Learning Design and Development Leadership
Students will develop a systems perspective of the design and development of distance learning, exploring the associated risks and constraints and ways to mitigate these risks and constraints, particularly with regard to planning for distance learning. Students will investigate the processes and best practices associated with designing and developing distance learning and will develop skills and knowledge to provide leadership in distance learning.
- EME 7079 - Distance Learning Implementation and Evaluation
3 Credit Hours
Distance Learning Implementation and Evaluation
Students will develop the knowledge and skills to be leaders in the implementation of distance learning into educational and training environments. As part of this process, students will develop a plan for implementing and evaluating distance learning and will consider all needed aspects of this kind of plan, including human and financial resources. Students will take a systems approach to implementing and evaluating distance learning, considering the impact of the implementation on the system.
Performance Technology Track (12 credit hours)
- EME 7015 - Analysis in Human Performance Technology
3 Credit Hours
Analysis in Human Performance Technology
Students investigate the role of analysis in Human Performance Technology and examine theories, models, and philosophical perspectives related to the performance, gap, and cause analysis processes that guide the practice of HPT. Students will integrate theory and practice to design theoretically sound analysis plans to identify root causes of organizational performance issues in various settings.
- EME 7353 - Leading Intervention Implementation and Evaluation
3 Credit Hours
Leading Intervention Implementation and Evaluation
Students examine strategies for leading the implementation and evaluation of Human Performance Technology interventions. Students will analyze change management and evaluation models and develop the skills necessary to select and implement appropriate approaches to facilitate intervention implementation and evaluation efforts aligned with the planned change, the available resources, and the constraints of the organization.
- EME 7357 - Intervention Selection, Design and Development Leadership
3 Credit Hours
Intervention Selection, Design and Development Leadership
Students will critically examine a wide range of potential performance improvement interventions to determine which solutions are best suited for various situations. Students will focus on aligning solutions with identified problems and organizational constraints and effectively communicating recommendations to stakeholders. Students will apply research, theory, and best practices to lead intervention design and development projects.
- EME 7365 - Human Performance Technology Theory and Research
3 Credit Hours
Human Performance Technology Theory and Research
Students examine the theoretical and conceptual foundations of the field of Human Performance Technology through a comprehensive review and critical examination of the literature of the field. Students will develop knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to apply research and theory to practice to improve organizational performance.
- EME 7067 - Emerging Technologies—Analysis and Implementation
- 8695 - Doctoral Seminar - Coursework Capstone Experience
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
Doctoral Seminar - Coursework Capstone Experience
This seminar will take place upon completion of all required coursework. Students will demonstrate attainment of program level learning outcomes and readiness to advance to the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. The course will be presented primarily online; however, it will also include a short residency to be completed on campus.
- EME 8609 - IDT Research Design
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
IDT Research Design
Students should enroll in this course after successfully completing the Coursework Capstone Experience. This course guides students through the development of the dissertation-in-practice proposal. Students will work with the instructor and peers to identify an appropriate research opportunity and design the key components of the study, preparing them to work with their individual committees throughout the remainder of the program to develop and defend a proposal, conduct a study, and finalize and defend the dissertation.
Prerequisite: EME 8695 - EME 8981 - Dissertation in Practice-Phase 1
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
Dissertation in Practice-Phase 1
The first in a series of four courses structured to support students as they progress through the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. Students must complete all required coursework, the Coursework Capstone Experience, and IDT Research Design prior to enrolling. This course focuses on the development and defense of the dissertation proposal. Students will work under the guidance of a dissertation committee to craft the dissertation in practice proposal and then successfully defend this proposal in an oral defense.
Prerequisite: EME 8609 - EME 8982 - Dissertation in Practice-Phase 2
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
Dissertation in Practice-Phase 2
The second in a series of four courses structured to support students as they progress through the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. Students must successfully complete Phase 1 prior to enrolling in Phase 2. Under the direction of the dissertation committee, students will implement their approved research proposals, collecting and analyzing data. Students will apply for and receive IRB approval prior to collecting data. Upon approval they will collect data, analyze data, and identify appropriate strategies for presenting findings in the dissertation document.
Prerequisite: EME 8981 - EME 8983 - Dissertation in Practice-Phase 3
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
Dissertation in Practice-Phase 3
The third in a series of four courses structured to support students as they progress through the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. Students must successfully complete Phase 2 prior to enrolling in Phase 3. Under the direction of the doctoral committee the student will assemble the final dissertation document using the provided tools to ensure that the document aligns with established requirements. The document will demonstrate exceptional research, critical thinking, and writing skills per established program guidelines.
Prerequisite: EME 8982 - EME 8984 - Dissertation in Practice-Phase 4
3 (may not be repeated for credit) Credit Hours
Dissertation in Practice-Phase 4
The fourth in a series of four courses structured to support students as they progress through the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. Students must successfully complete Phase 3 prior to enrolling in Phase 4. Under the direction of the doctoral committee students will complete the dissertation phase of the doctoral program. Students will obtain all required approvals of the written document and present and successfully defend their work.
Prerequisite: EME 8983
- 8695 - Doctoral Seminar - Coursework Capstone Experience
Three residencies are embedded in the online doctorate in instructional design and technology. These residencies help build a professional learning community among faculty and peers by allowing you to interact in a face-to-face environment.
- The first residency occurs over a long weekend during the first year of coursework and focuses on scholarly writing.
- The second residency occurs during the second year of coursework and is held on location, in conjunction with a professional conference. This residency allows you to examine different strategies for designing, conducting and disseminating research.
- The third and final residency takes place at the end of your coursework, during a long weekend, as part of the coursework capstone experience.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to UWF’s online Ed.D. program in instructional design, you must have a graduate degree from an accredited institution. Other criteria for successful admission includes a GPA of 3.5 or higher on the most recent graduate degree from an accredited institution.
How to Apply
To apply for this program, you first need to submit an application for graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission to the University of West Florida. In addition, you must:
- Submit GRE or MAT scores (may be waived for applicants with a GPA of 3.75 or higher on the most recently completed graduate degree from an accredited institution).
- Submit a professional résumé.
- Submit three professional references.
- A minimum of two of the three references must be able to speak to your likelihood for academic success at the doctoral level (for example, past professors).
- Participate in an online interview.
- Submit a letter of intent addressing academic and professional experiences and goals.
Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Contact our graduate admissions team at gradadmissions@uwf.edu.
Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 10) | $384.60 per credit hour | $21,537.60 |
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $384.60 per credit hour | $25,383.60 |
| In-State Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 3) | $384.60 per credit hour | $24,229.80 |
| Full Out-of-State Tuition | $1,044.24 per credit hour | $68,919.84 |
| 90% Out-of-State Tuition Waiver | $478.83 per credit hour | $31,602.78 |
Tuition waivers may cover up to 90 percent of non-resident tuition and are available to non-Florida residents (including international students) admitted to online programs and registered for online courses in active pursuit of that degree or certificate. You must pay all other assessed tuition and fees.
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and transfer credits, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to 48 months to complete, excluding dissertation hours and depending on course availability.
* Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Alabama Differential Out-of-State Tuition
Residents of Alabama are eligible for Alabama Differential Tuition, a reduced out-of-state tuition rate. For more information and to verify residency status for tuition purposes, new undergraduate students should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and new graduate students should contact the Graduate School. Current students should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Active Duty Military
All active-duty members of the U.S. military who are residing or are stationed outside the state of Florida shall have all (100%) out-of-state fees waived by the university. Contact the Military & Veterans Resource Center to apply for the Active Duty Military Out-of-State Waiver.
UWF Short-Term Financial Assistance
The University of West Florida provides eligible students with an alternative to paying the full amount of tuition at the beginning of each term in the form of an installment payment plan or a short-term loan.
Military Students
UWF is a Military FriendlyⓇ School proudly serving active-duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.
Financial Aid
Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.
Learn More About Financial AidCareer Outcomes
Upon completion of our online Ed.D. in Instructional Design and Technology, you can pursue a variety of positions in many industries.
* Salary and job outlook information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale.
Training and Development Specialists
Training and development specialists plan and administer programs that improve the skills and knowledge of their employees. Technology-driven solutions are a cornerstone of this position. The median annual salary is $60,870, and jobs are expected to grow 9 percent through 2028.
Instructional Designers and Coordinators
These instructional professionals develop curricula and instructional material and manage teaching standards. They analyze student data, evaluate curriculum effectiveness and train teachers and staff on new school programs. Through 2028, employment for this career is projected to increase 6 percent, and the median annual salary is $64,450.
Curriculum Developers
Curriculum developers’ duties include authoring educational training material and developing programs of instruction in industries such as education, government, business and communications. They offer expertise in online educational programming, usage metrics and course design. Their average annual salary is $61,130.