How long will it take me to earn my MALXD? 

The MALXD program is designed to be completed in 5 consecutive semesters, or 20 months. You will take 2 courses per semester and earn 3 graduate certificates as part of your master’s degree.

Who is the MALXD designed for? 

The MALXD program is designed for curious, creative, and critical individuals who are interested in developing a deeper understanding of designing learning experiences. We value a range of perspectives from those looking for entry into the field or work adjacent to the field, to seasoned designers who want to expand their knowledge and leadership opportunities. 

Our graduate certificate programs are designed for individuals who want to supplement their academic and/or professional knowledge in key areas related to learning design. 

Both programs are designed with full-time working professionals in mind and are context-rich so that learners have supported experience applying theory to their professional practice. 

A master’s degree and 3 graduate certificates: how does it work? 

During your time as an MALXD learner, you will concurrently earn 3 graduate certificates in addition to your MALXD degree: 

• Learning Sciences Graduate Certificate 
• Learning Design Graduate Certificate 
• Learning Design Leadership Gradate Certificate 

Learners who are not seeking a full master’s degree experience may also choose to enroll in a single graduate certificate (GC). Please visit our Apply page. 

Can I complete MALXD while working full-time? 

Yes. The program is fully online and has been thoughtfully designed for working professionals. Courses are primarily asynchronous, although there will be interactive opportunities to connect with fellow students and instructors in meaningful ways. On average, learners should plan to spend 9 hours per week, per course.

Is this program 100% online? 

Yes. Our program has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate learners from any location. Your courses will primarily be asynchronous, but there will be opportunities to connect directly with your instructors and fellow students in rich ways throughout your coursework.

Which courses will I take as part of the MALXD program? 

During your time as an MALXD student, you will take 10 courses through a strategically scaffolded approach. Explore our Courses page for more information. 

When is the annual application due date? 

All of our programs have rolling admissions. This means that you can apply any time before the due date and your application will be evaluated as it comes in. You will receive notice of your admission decision within 1-2 weeks of submitting your application. You can start your application online via MSU Office of Admissions at any time.

The annual application due date for the MALXD program is June 1 to begin your master’s degree in the fall (your classes will start in late August).

The application due dates for the MALXD graduate certificate (GC) programs are as follows:

• GC in Learning Sciences: July 1
• GC in Learning Design: December 1
• GC in Learning Design Leadership: July 1

When will I receive an admissions decision? 

We admit students to the MALXD program on a rolling basis, which means you can submit your application any time before the due date. You will receive confirmation of your admission decision 1-2 weeks after all of your application materials have been submitted and your application is considered complete.

What are the prerequisites to apply to MALXD? 

To apply to MALXD degree program, applicants must have earned a four-year undergraduate degree (B.A. or B.S.) from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0. 

To apply to a MALXD graduate certificate program, applicants must have earned a four-year undergraduate degree (B.A. or B.S.) from an accredited institution.

What are the application requirements? 

Applicants must submit their online application via MSU’s Office of Admissions and provide: 

• 3 Letters of Reference 
• Resume 
• Personal Statement 
• Official Undergraduate Transcripts 
• $65 Application Fee 

View the MALXD Application Guide for more information and contact Heather Williamson (MALXDegree@msu.edu) with questions. 

What is the cost of tuition for MALXD?

The total cost of tuition to earn your MALXD is $27,990 ($933 per credit hour), based on the 2022-23 tuition rate. Current rates are published on Controller’s Office website – scroll down to the line that reads On-line Education Masters. 

Are there scholarship opportunities for MALXD students? 

To support you, we have curated a list of funding opportunities for you to explore as you consider scholarship, grant, fellowship, and assistantships to fund your MALXD experience. One exciting opportunity of note is the MALXD Learner Insight Fellowship, which provides funding to our first cohort of students.

Are MALXD students eligible for financial aid? 

Yes. In most cases, federal financial aid is available for students who meet the eligibility requirements (contact the MSU Office of Financial Aid for more information).  

How do I know when to pay my tuition? 

Students and guests can make payments on balances via the MSU’s Student Information System (SIS). After logging in, students and guests should navigate to the Student Accounts tile to access their student account. Once inside the payment portal, students and guests can make payments on current and prior semester balances, view account details and bills, enroll in a payment plan, or sign up for direct deposit refunds. 

For more information about billing and payments, view the Student Accounts information on the MSU Office of the Controller’s website. 

Can international students apply to MALXD? 

Yes. Our courses are offered in a fully online format, and therefore residency in the US is not required to complete the degree program. Review the Information for International and Multilingual Applicants section on our Apply page for specific details.

Does MALXD provide F-1 or J-1 visas to international students? 

No. The MALXD program does not fulfill the academic requirements to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa. MALXD courses are all fully online, thus admission to the MALXD program does not qualify you for a student visa.