About this Program
E-learning has gone mainstream. The impact of technology on learning and training is enormous at traditional educational institutions, large companies and small businesses alike. The resulting changes are accelerating as the spread of high-speed internet access and powerful tech devices create a high demand for experienced professionals in this field.
In this four-course certificate program, you’ll get a complete immersion in the art and science of e-learning and instructional design. We’ll cover the essentials of e-learning and the tools and techniques for developing and managing courses and programs. You’ll explore different ways to assess program quality and effectiveness. It all comes together in a final special project that you can add to your professional portfolio.
▸ Related Article: How to Become an Instructional Designer
DESIGNED FOR
Professionals who work with e-learning content and those in education and training roles who want to enter the field.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Two years of college
One year of work experience in education or training
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 7 to 9 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid . To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer or laptop with a recent operating system (Windows 11, Windows 10 (32-bit or 64-bit mainstream supported versions , or macOS on Intel processors or Apple M-series chips)
Latest web browser version (Microsoft Edge (not IE), Google Chrome, Firefox or Safari)
Articulate 360 Teams software (license provided)
Microsoft Office 365 software (desktop apps) to author with Word and/or PowerPoint (free to UW students through UW IT Connect)
High-speed internet connection
Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
Video Overview
Instructors for the Certificate in E-Learning Instructional Design explain how the program can help students forge a successful career in this growing field.
Duration: 03:35
Play
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Methods for selecting the appropriate technology and course structure
How to evaluate delivery formats for cost and efficiency, and troubleshoot scheduling, budgeting and planning challenges
Standard and emerging tools and technologies for creating, delivering and accessing course materials, including authoring with Articulate 360 Teams and best practices for harnessing generative AI
How to repurpose existing materials for interactivity and online delivery
Key concepts for quantitative and qualitative evaluation and assessment
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
You’ll produce your own e-learning curriculum or training module and give an online presentation of your work.
EARN DIGITAL BADGES
You can earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These badges can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges .
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.
Career Stats
63%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
Amazon, University of Washington, Microsoft, City of Seattle, various educational institutions
18%
Projected job growth for training and development specialists in Washington state (2020-30)
$77,090
Average salary for training and development specialists in Washington state (2023)
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options .