Certificate in Learning Design and Technology
Now Enrolling for March 2026
- 3 Courses
- 100% Online
- Certificate + Digital Badge
- 225 Clock hours
Shape Engaging Learning Experiences
Villanova University’s online Learning Design & Technology Certificate equips professionals with the skills to design and deliver effective, technology-enhanced learning experiences. Whether you're a current educator, career changer, instructional designer or corporate trainer, this program provides a strong foundation in learning science, instructional design and educational technologies.
Through three hands-on courses, you’ll learn to build engaging online learning environments rooted in proven learning theories and instructional design models. You’ll explore tools and technologies that support collaboration, accessibility and learner engagement.
This program is eligible for 225 Act 48 credits for PA-certified Educators. Each course is eligible for 75 Act 48 Credits.
Register to Join us for a Zoom Info Session
Want to Enroll a Team or Group?
Save on tuition when you enroll 5 or more students.
92%
projected spend increase in the Global Learning Software market by 20301
45%
of higher ed students wish faculty would integrate AI tools into coursework2
$30 ROI
average ROI for $1 spent when adopting eLearning2
According to Grand View Horizon1, Vista Point Advisors2
ENROLLMENT OPTIONS
Learning Design and Technology Certificate 3 courses | 6 weeks per course 12.5 hours per week
|
15% savings |
Single Course Each single course is made up of a Principles asynchronous micro-course and a Practice live virtual micro-course. |
10% savings See courses to enroll. |
LEARNING DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATE COURSES
Complete the required three courses.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the conceptual and theoretical foundations of learning design, emphasizing the latest terminology and practices in learning science. It delves into the history and evolution of learning design, various models, and core theories and principles of adult and online learning. The course also covers the essentials of creating high-quality online learning experiences, focusing on course alignment, learning outcomes, engaging activities and effective assessment strategies. Students will gain insights into best practices for online teaching and the creation of universal learning designs.
In this course, students will explore the role of technology in online learning and examine both the latest and essential technologies used in online learning environments. Students will learn how to apply technology integration models in selection, design and development of learning technologies to achieve learning outcomes and promote learning experiences. Further, students will develop skills in utilizing technology to enhance communication and collaboration to create engaging learning environments.
This hands-on workshop bridges theory and practice in online learning design. Students will apply instructional design principles to create technology-enhanced learning experiences tailored to their professional interests. Emphasizing iterative design, peer feedback and evidence-based refinement, the course culminates in a robust portfolio showcasing each participant’s ability to develop engaging, effective online learning.
Prerequisites: Designing Effective Learning Experiences and Technology Tools for Learning
FLEXIBLE BY DESIGN
Our programs are built for busy adult learners. Each course requires a one-hour live session one evening per week. Additional coursework can be done whenever is most convenient for you. You'll follow a structured weekly rhythm, supported by a learning experience that blends faculty-led guidance, peer engagement and applied work to help you connect concepts to your professional context. In addition, career management resources are available to support goal-setting, professional materials and next-step planning.
PRINCIPLES + PRACTICE LEARNING MODEL
Principles serves as the foundation for each course, providing essential knowledge to help you expand your skill set and deepen your expertise. Through independently paced online coursework, you’ll watch videos and complete weekly assignments on your schedule. This flexible format ensures you can build your expertise at a pace that works for you.
Practice builds upon Principles through collaboration and real-world application. Weekly, live faculty-led sessions further enhance learning by fostering open dialogue and connecting you with peers across multiple industries. These interactive sessions provide opportunities to discuss workplace challenges, share insights and receive valuable feedback.
WHO SHOULD ENROLL?
- Educators & Academic Professionals
- Corporate Trainers & Workplace Learning Professionals
- Instructional Designers & Learning Experience Designers
- Technology & E-Learning Professionals
- Instructional Coordinators & Curriculum Specialists
- Professionals looking to transition into education roles, particularly instructional design, training and educational development.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
- Design and develop effective learning experiences
- Integrate technology into instructional design
- Apply theories of learning and instruction to develop innovative and effective educational solutions.
LEARNING THAT ADAPTS TO YOU
No two professionals learn the same way, and your experience shouldn’t feel one-size-fits-all. At Villanova, we offer multiple paths to mastery, so you can lean into the learning methods that work best for you while still benefiting from live faculty guidance and a collaborative cohort. The result is a learning experience that meets you where you are and helps you translate new knowledge into impact at work.
Engage in discussion boards that turn course concepts into real-world dialogue and shared perspectives.
Leverage the vast resources of the Falvey Library online to explore readings, optional resources and additional materials that let you go deeper on your own schedule.
Join weekly faculty office hours to ask questions, workshop ideas and connect course content to your work.
Apply what you're learning through practical projects, with optional or expanded project opportunities when you want to stretch further.
THE VILLANOVA DIFFERENCE
The College of Professional Studies has cultivated a distinguished reputation for delivering the hallmark Villanova experience — academically rigorous, top-quality and innovative programs within a supportive community — to students who are pursuing higher education amidst busy professional and personal lives. As an internationally recognized institution, Villanova is proud of its vibrant community of alumni, faculty, students and staff who are dedicated to driving meaningful impact and transformative change within their communities.
At Villanova, we believe where you've been is just the beginning.
Pursue the Next You.™
FUNDING YOUR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION
EdAssist by Bright Horizons
Villanova University has partnered with EdAssist by Bright Horizons to help you take the next step in your education journey. Employees of participating organizations receive 15% in tuition savings and waived application fees on eligible Villanova programs.
Employee Tuition Reimbursement
Many organizations offer tuition reimbursement for professional education programs. Check with your employer to learn about available opportunities. To support your request, you can also reference our library of supervisor request letters.
Please consult with your employer to determine eligibility and specific reimbursement procedures, including any required documentation.
Military service members and veterans may be eligible for tuition payment/assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill® or other benefits.
Resources available to help you navigate your military and veteran benefits:
- Villanova Military Savings: active-duty, veterans and military-connected spouses and dependents are eligible to receive 15% savings per professional education certificate course.
- Military Tuition Assistance
- VA Education Benefits (including GI Bill®)
Please visit the Office of Veterans and Military Service Members' webpage for more information.
Villanova supports the continued education and professional development of Boeing's employees. Learn more about education benefits and tuition savings information for Boeing employees.
CPS students enrolled in a non-credit program and/or any individual non-credit course may participate in a payment plan.
Payment plans are offered through Nelnet Campus Commerce and students are encouraged to reach out to Nelnet directly through the NCC website.
Please note:
- Payment plans are available for fall, spring and summer.
- Payments must be made over the course of 2-5 months, depending on when you enroll in the plan.
- There is an additional $45 payment plan fee for each semester.
Personal Loans
Students may use any loan provider they prefer. One option is Salle Mae's Career Training Loan, a credit-based loan that offers flexible repayment plans.
Deferred payment for professional education is available. Please contact a member of the enrollment team to learn more about deferment and to coordinate a plan.
Learn more about Villanova University's professional education enrollment terms and conditions.
CONTACT US
Our enrollment counselors are happy to answer any questions you have about our certificate programs.
Our hours are M-Th. 9 am - 7 pm | Fri. 9 am - 5 pm
profedenrollment@villanova.edu
Give us a call
Schedule a meeting