Do You Need a Master's Degree to Be an ID in 2024?

TL;DR

Getting a master's in instructional design may not increase salary significantly, but can open up more job opportunities.

Transcript

Robbie: Should you go back to school and get a degree to transition into instructional design? Maybe you already have a degree, but it isn't in instructional design. Or perhaps you just have a bachelor's and want to know if you need a master's. If you're transitioning into this industry and considering investing in a master's program, then you're g... Read More

Key Insights

• ➕ Employers prefer candidates with bachelor's degrees but value master's degrees as a plus, not a necessity.
• ⌛ The return on investment for a master's degree in instructional design may not always justify the financial and time investment.
• 🥶 Alternatives like free resources, courses, and bootcamps can provide comparable skills and knowledge without the need for a master's degree.

Questions & Answers

Q: Do employers require a master's degree in instructional design?

Employers commonly require a bachelor's degree, with master's degrees being preferred but not mandatory. Only a small percentage of employers require a master's degree.

Q: Does having a master's degree significantly increase earning potential in instructional design?

Contrary to common belief, there is no statistical significance in salaries between instructional designers with bachelor's or master's degrees. The earning potential is not significantly higher with a master's.

Q: Are there alternative ways to gain the necessary knowledge and skills for instructional design without getting a master's degree?

Yes, alternatives include free resources, standalone courses, graduate certificates, and specialized programs like the Devlin Peck Bootcamp, which offer a more affordable and quicker path to becoming an instructional designer.

Q: Is a master's degree in a related field necessary to succeed in instructional design?

No, a degree in instructional design or related fields is not essential. Practical skills, experience, and dedication to learning the required knowledge can also pave the way to a successful career in instructional design.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Employers value candidates with bachelor's degrees the most, with master's degrees being preferred but not required.

• Getting a master's degree may qualify you for 15% more jobs and make you preferred by half of the employers.

• The return on investment for a master's degree in instructional design may not always justify the cost.