The Foundations of Instructional Design Program is designed to provide you an introduction to the field of instructional design. Participants will learn, in a cohort model, about the background of instructional design as a discipline and career as well as theories and methodologies such as AGILE and backwards design.

Additionally, participants will learn how to determine project and learner's needs, how to use that information to create learning objectives, choose appropriate curricular methods, and how to manage a project. The program culminates in a capstone project in which participants can apply the knowledge and skills that they have learned in the previous courses.

Who Should Attend

This noncredit program is ideal for anyone interested in exploring the field of instructional design. Whether you are new to instructional design or seeking to enhance your skills, this program offers a comprehensive pathway to excellence in instructional design.

All courses are asynchronous with support and facilitation from VCU's experienced and seasoned instructional design team with expertise in online learning and teaching with technology. 

The courses include:

• Introduction to Instructional Design
• Theory and Models
• Needs Assessment and Learning Analysis
• Curricular Approaches and Learning Strategies
• Instructional Design Project Management
• Capstone Project

2025 Course Schedule

Participants can register for a full cohort or can elect to register for individual courses (with the exception of Capstone Project). All courses are asynchronous with no required live meetings. Each course is supported and facilitated by VCU's experience and seasoned instructional design team. Each course is open for one month and will take approximately 15-20 hours to complete.

Pricing & Registration

The Foundations of Instructional Design Program, comprising of all six (6) courses, totals $899 per participant. Individual courses are $175 each. Participants can register to join a cohort to complete all six (6) courses, or participants can elect to register for individual courses (with the exception of Capstone Project, which can only be taken as part of the complete cohort).  There is a discount for VCU faculty/staff.

Digital Badging

You will earn a digital badge for each eligible workshop that you successfully complete. Learn more about digital badging.

Questions?

For questions about the program, please contact ocpe@vcu.edu for assistance.