Application Materials
You'll need to submit:
- Your application to the Graduate School
- Your official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- A written statement of your goals
- Academic writing sample
Ph.D. in Instructional Technology
Prepare for leadership roles in research and development of new knowledge and applications.
We're a dynamic and collaborative community of scholars, with one-third of our students coming from other countries for full-time study. With a doctorate in instructional technology, you’ll explore issues and advances in performance, instruction, computer-based and distance-learning environments.
We stress competence and originality as we build on the practical competencies of your master's program to prepare you for the integration of theory and skills as the base for original research. We're the state's largest public university producer of educational technology graduates. Our graduates have gone on to work in all levels of education, industry and government as well as the nonprofit sector.
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Accreditation
Our program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, and our curriculum is fully aligned with professional standards set by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology.
How Can Earning a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology Advance My Career?
Our graduates are able to organize theory and research, employ appropriate research methodologies, and synthesize past experiences and training in instructional technology applications. You'll be prepared to apply these skills to the development of theoretical constructs for new or better applications, leading to enhanced professional opportunities.
At a Glance
63 credit hours
Hybrid
Full time
Start in the fall, spring or summer semester
How to Apply
You’ll apply through the Graduate School.
- Fall application deadline: April 1
- Spring deadline: October 1
- Summer deadline: April 1
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.
Assistantships
Many NIU graduate students have an assistantship, which provides financial support (typically a tuition waiver and stipend), as well as career preparation.
Curriculum and Requirements
At 63 credits, it will take approximately two to three years to complete your degree.
All of our courses can be taken online except for the doctoral seminar courses, which are blended with an average of three to five face-to-face meetings. You'll take five seminar courses in sequential order (one per semester).
To work online, you will need regular access to a computer that meets certain minimum requirements to successfully complete that coursework.
Visit go.niu.edu/niuonline to take a browser test to see whether your computer will work and an online course readiness survey/sample online lesson to learn if online courses are a good fit for you.
Learning Outcomes
During your program of study, you will:
- Review and synthesize theory, research and practice in instructional technology.
- Engage in instructional technology research.
- Demonstrate mastery of research design and techniques.
- Demonstrate mastery of theory relevant to instructional technology.
- Integrate theory, research and practice while developing an appreciation for diverse perspective.
- Engage in ethical researches and practices.
- Apply research and evaluation techniques to measure student learning and the effectiveness of instructional technologybased products and programs.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
The Candidacy Examination
The candidacy examination, administered each term by the faculty in instructional technology, includes sections on research skills and learning theory as well as the major area of study. Early contact with the program advisor to discuss the examination is highly recommended. If your first attempt at the candidacy examination is unsuccessful, the advisory committee will determine what remediation appears warranted and when you can attempt the examination again.
Faculty
Our faculty bring diverse experiences, backgrounds, scholarship and expertise across the field of instructional technology. They’re committed to supporting and collaborating with students in their scholarly and research endeavors.
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Contact Us
Department of Learning Innovation, Leadership and Technology
Graham 223
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-9339
lilt@niu.edu