Abu Dhabi University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research and hands-on practice to develop advanced competence in educational technology, instructional design and the pedagogical application of artificial intelligence. You will study a mix of core and elective modules, and complete a research dissertation or applied capstone project that addresses an authentic educational problem.

• Foundations of Learning and Instruction: contemporary learning theories, cognitive and socio-cultural perspectives, and implications for technology-mediated instruction.
• Instructional Design for Digital Learning: systematic design models, multimedia learning principles, authoring tools and course development workflows.
• Educational Technologies and Platforms: evaluation and integration of LMS, mobile learning, virtual/augmented reality and collaborative tools in classroom and online settings.
• AI in Education: fundamentals of machine learning and AI as applied to personalised learning, intelligent tutoring systems, automated feedback and adaptive assessment.
• Learning Analytics and Data-Informed Practice: methods for collecting, analysing and visualising learner data to inform instructional decisions and improve learning outcomes.
• Research Methods in Education: qualitative and quantitative approaches, mixed methods designs and ethical considerations for conducting educational research.
• Assessment, Evaluation and Quality Assurance: designing reliable and valid assessments, programme evaluation techniques and standards for technology-enhanced provision.
• Ethics, Equity and Policy in EdTech: legal, ethical and equity issues around data privacy, algorithmic bias and inclusive design for diverse learner populations.
• Capstone Project or Dissertation: an applied project or thesis that demonstrates mastery by designing, implementing and evaluating a technology-rich intervention or conducting original research.

Delivery typically combines seminars, workshops, lab sessions and supervised research. Students engage with real classroom or institutional settings for practicum components and collaborate on multidisciplinary projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in education, educational technology, or a related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other fields who have relevant professional experience in teaching, instructional design or learning and development are also considered.

• Academic credential: a completed undergraduate degree from a recognised institution.
• Professional experience: relevant work experience in education or training is advantageous, particularly for applicants without a primary teaching qualification.
• English proficiency: evidence of academic English competence where previous study was not in English (university-recognised qualifications such as IELTS, TOEFL or other accepted equivalents).
• Supporting documents: a CV, a personal statement outlining your motivation and goals, and academic or professional references. Applicants may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for leadership roles that bridge pedagogy and technology across education and training sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Educational technology specialist or coordinator in schools and universities
• Instructional designer and learning experience designer for e-learning providers and corporate training teams
• Learning analytics or assessment specialist using data to inform curriculum and policy
• AI curriculum developer or consultant working on intelligent tutoring systems and adaptive learning products
• Education policy advisor or project manager for ministries, NGOs or international organisations focused on digital learning initiatives
• Researcher or PhD candidate in educational technology, learning sciences or AI in education

The programme emphasises practical skills and industry engagement, helping graduates move into roles that require both pedagogical insight and technical fluency.

Why study at Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University offers a regional hub for advanced study in educational technologies and AI, with access to modern teaching laboratories, collaborative research centres and partnerships across the Gulf education sector. The university’s faculty bring a mix of academic research and practical experience in instructional design, learning analytics and technology implementation.

• Industry connections and applied focus: opportunities for practicum placements and project work with schools, higher education institutions and corporate partners in the UAE and region.
• Contextualised learning: curriculum reflects both international best practice and the educational priorities of the Gulf, preparing graduates to work in multilingual and multicultural settings.
• Flexible study pathways: options for part-time study and a choice between research and practice-oriented capstone routes to suit career goals.
• Research and innovation support: access to research supervision, labs and funding opportunities for projects that address real-world challenges in digital learning and AI ethics.

Overall, the programme is designed to equip education professionals with the skills and knowledge to lead responsible, evidence-based innovation in teaching and learning through technology and AI.