Do I Need a Degree in Instructional Design? It Depends.

It’s a common question for those considering a career in instructional design: Do I need a degree to land a job? The answer? It depends.

Hiring managers aren’t just looking for a degree—they want proof that you have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed. In fact, most employers focus on 3 key factors when assessing candidates. You typically need at least 2 of these to be considered:

A Credential – A degree or certification in instructional design, learning experience design, or a related field.
Relevant Work Experience – Hands-on experience designing and developing learning solutions.
Proof of Abilities – A strong portfolio showcasing eLearning modules, course designs, or learning strategies.

The good news? You don’t have to spend years earning a degree to break into the field. If you’re resourceful, you can fast-track your way in through volunteer projects, contract work, and portfolio building.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or a working professional looking for your next opportunity, focusing on these key factors can help you stand out and get hired.

The Three Paths to Becoming an Instructional Designer

There is no single “right” way to transition into instructional design, but most successful professionals follow one of these three paths:

1. Earn a Degree + Build a Portfolio

Best for: Career changers with little to no background in instructional design.
How it works: Pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in instructional design, educational technology, or a related field. Many degree programs include hands-on projects, allowing you to build a portfolio along the way. Internships or early contract work can further strengthen your experience.
Considerations: Degrees can be expensive and time-consuming, so research programs carefully before committing.

Popular Degree Programs

Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology | Commonwealth University – Bloomsburg
Master’s in Education Learning Design, Innovation, and Technology | Harvard University
Master of Science in Educational Technology | Touro University

2. Earn a Non-Degree Credential

Best for:Professionals who already hold a Master’s degree in another field but need instructional design-specific training.
How it works: Enroll in a certificate program, bootcamp, or micro-credential in instructional design. This approach helps demonstrate formal learning without committing to a full degree.
Considerations: Ensure the program includes hands-on work and opportunities to develop portfolio pieces.

Popular Non-degree Programs

Applied Instructional Design Academy | Learning Strategy and Design
Learning & Development Basics | The L&D Academy
The Instructional Design Portfolio Bootcamp | Devlin Peck

3. Upskill Through Courses + Build Experience

Best for: Self-motivated learners and those looking for a flexible, cost-effective way to transition.
How it works: Take targeted online courses in instructional design tools and methods (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, learning theories). Build a portfolio by working on volunteer projects or junior contract roles.
Considerations: Without a formal credential, your portfolio and work experience need to be strong to stand out to hiring managers.

Popular Upskilling Resources

Curated Resources for Those Transitioning in Instructional Design | Holly Owens
Micro Course: Instructional Design Models | Instructional Design Central
Educational Technologies | iDesign

Which Path Is Right for You?

The best route depends on your background, skills, and career goals. If you’re unsure where to start, the Teamed Career Board can help you:

Compare degree programs – Evaluate costs, quality, and specializations.
Explore upskilling courses – Find cost-effective alternatives to a full degree.
Connect with experienced mentors – Get insider guidance from professionals in the field.
Engage with the instructional design community – Join networking groups and attend industry events to discover new opportunities.

Remember: Hiring managers typically look for at least 2 of the 3 key factors—a credential, relevant experience, and a strong portfolio. No matter which path you take, proving your abilities is essential to landing your first instructional design role.