University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

This master's programme combines theoretical foundations in learning and cognition with practical skills in designing, developing and evaluating technology-enhanced learning. Students typically follow a mix of core and elective modules and choose between a project-based or research-led pathway.

• Core topics: instructional design models, learning theory and cognition, educational research methods (qualitative and quantitative), and ethics in educational technology.
• Design and development: multimedia production for learning, authoring tools and learning management systems, rapid prototyping, and usability testing.
• Implementation and evaluation: programme evaluation, learning analytics and assessment design, accessibility and inclusive practice, and evidence-based approaches to adoption of technology in classrooms and organisations.
• Electives and specialisations: mobile learning, game-based learning, blended and online course design, Indigenous pedagogies and digital storytelling, or policy and leadership in educational technology.
• Capstone options: an applied design project or curriculum implementing and evaluating a technology-enhanced intervention, or a thesis involving original research under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a four-year bachelor's degree or equivalent in education or a related discipline. Candidates with a three-year degree plus relevant professional experience may also be considered. Admissions are based on academic record, relevance of prior study or work experience, and the suitability of the applicant's goals for the programme.

• Required documentation typically includes official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or professional interests, and academic or professional references.
• Applicants for the thesis stream may be asked to provide a brief research proposal and to identify a potential supervisor.
• International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide recognised test results or equivalent evidence of English competence.
• Relevant professional experience in teaching, instructional design, learning technology or training is advantageous but not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles across education, corporate learning and the edtech sector. The programme emphasises practical design skills and evaluation, making alumni attractive to employers seeking evidence-based approaches to learning.

• Instructional designer / learning experience designer
• Educational technologist or e-learning developer in K–12 and higher education
• Corporate training and talent development specialist
• Learning analytics and assessment specialist
• Educational consultant or project lead for edtech implementation
• Product roles in edtech companies (content design, user research)
• Pathways to further academic research and doctoral study in education or learning sciences

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan is a research-intensive institution with a College of Education that supports interdisciplinary work across technology, pedagogy and Indigenous knowledges. Students benefit from access to faculty with expertise in instructional design, learning analytics and inclusive education, as well as applied partnerships with local school divisions and community organisations.

• Opportunities to engage in applied projects with K–12 and higher education partners across the province, supporting real-world implementation and evaluation.
• Support for distance and part-time study, enabling practising educators and professionals to combine study with work.
• Access to campus digital media facilities, research centres and library resources to support design and research activity.
• A programme focus that encourages culturally responsive design and integration of Indigenous perspectives in educational technology practice.