Executive Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology Online Foster Positive Learning Environments

21

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the certificate total

Next Start Dates: February 16, 2026 | March 23, 2026 | May 18, 2026

If you enjoy studying how people learn, a curriculum design certificate may be the program for you! An instructional design (ID) program can help you build the knowledge and skills for designing lessons, courses, and training programs. When you confer Liberty University’s 100% online Executive Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology, you can explore advanced training in instructional design. You can apply the skills you gain in schools, universities, workplaces, or even military settings. 

Many professionals reach a point where they want more profound knowledge but are not yet ready to commit to a full doctoral program. That’s why Liberty University offers Executive Certificates – so you can continue your academic and professional growth beyond the master’s level without taking on the load of a doctoral degree.

A doctoral-level instructional design certificate offers:

  • A clear path to help build advanced skills
  • An academic credential that fits alongside work and family responsibilities
  • Exposure to current research
  • Flexible options for advanced learning

Even with a significant amount of experience and graduate studies in instructional design, you might eventually need a PhD in Education. A doctoral degree aims to help you advance your career path in instructional design to the highest level. That is why Liberty University’s Executive Certificate online programs also align with Liberty’s PhD programs. This Executive Certificate aligns with Liberty’s PhD in Education – Instructional Design and Technology, allowing you to potentially transfer in up to 21 credit hours toward your doctorate.

Regardless of whether or not you eventually pursue a full doctoral degree, this Executive Certificate gives you the chance to improve your understanding of learning theory, teaching systems, and educational technology. These studies can help you prepare for future leadership or further study.


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What Sets Us Apart?

  • Private Nonprofit University
  • 600+ Online Degrees
  • No Standardized Testing for Admission
  • Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
  • Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

An online learning design certificate offers doctoral-level study in a shorter format, fast-tracking your education! You’ll complete 21 credit hours online, with courses that fit into a busy schedule. This flexibility makes the certificate a manageable option for working professionals. 

Courses last 8 weeks and do not require specific login times. This format can help you balance your schoolwork with jobs, family, and community activities. The curriculum builds on prior graduate education and professional experience. 

Throughout the program, you can explore advanced concepts in learning design, instructional systems, and educational technology. This approach allows you to work on strengthening existing skills, all while developing new perspectives on teaching, learning, and training.

If you decide to pursue a PhD later, some completed coursework from this Executive Certificate may be eligible for transfer, based on program requirements and policies. This structure can help you move forward with confidence while maintaining long-term academic goals in mind.


The Executive Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology focuses on advanced topics that support effective learning design and system development. You’ll study different styles of learning. You can also see how instructional design and technology help meet the unique needs of students and teachers. Additionally, you’ll explore how learning design theories and performance principles work together to support learning outcomes. 

An online instructional design and technology certificate can help you survey how learning styles, learning environments, and technology shape learning experiences. Coursework emphasizes thoughtful design, research-informed decision-making, and evaluation of instructional effectiveness. Through the design and technology program, you can develop a better understanding of the following:

  • Advanced instructional design theory and models
  • Current issues and trends in learning technologies
  • Evaluation and improvement of learning systems
  • Instructional systems design and analysis
  • Principles of human performance technology

These areas of exposure support professionals working in education, training, and organizational development. The program encourages you to apply concepts to real-world learning challenges, which helps to bridge theory and practice.

Certificate Completion Plan


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At Liberty University, a private Christian education is less expensive than you think. Over the last 10 years, Liberty University’s Online Program has only raised its standard tuition costs by less than 5% – and most of our online tuition rates rank in the top 35% for affordability for 2025 when compared to our leading online competitors.

Doctoral Full Time $610/Credit
Doctoral Part Time $675/Credit

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $375/credit hour (learn more).

These rates are reflective of academic year 2025-2026. Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.


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Military

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

  • Active Duty
  • Reserve/National Guard
  • Veterans/Retirees
  • Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
  • Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

  • Tuition discounts – $375 per credit hour for education Executive Certificate courses*
  • Roll credits into the corresponding doctoral degree
  • 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*The $375/credit hour rate only applies to select education Executive Certificates.

These rates are reflective of academic year 2025-2026. Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Learning Design Programs