Educational Technology is also known as Instructional Technology. According to U.S. News, Educational Technology can be defined as "the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management, and evaluation of processes and resources for learning."
There are very few Bachelor's degree programs in Educational Technology. Earning a Bachelor's degree in Educational Technology typically takes about four years. Western Illinois University requires its Educational Technology students to take courses in the following areas: Web-based education, Developing Instructional Technology applications, Integrating multimedia in education programs and Instructional video production.
Earning a PhD in Educational Technology takes longer than a Bachelor's degree, but like the Bachelor's degree, there are a variety of programs that have online degree options available or blended curriculums that allow students to be on campus only part of the time, allowing a great deal of flexibility. These degree programs are typically aimed at professionals in education who are seeking leadership positions.
Bachelor's degree programs in Educational Technology often prepare students for entry-level jobs within the field. Graduates of Bachelor's degree programs design online curriculum and assist with technology-related issues in the classroom. According to GradSchools.com, "Graduates of instructional media & technology graduate programs can become media specialists, educational software developers, media/technology instructors, administrators and more."
Careers for those entering the job market with a Bachelor's degree in Educational Technology are projected to be as favorable as those entering the job market with PhD's in the same field. Emerging technologies and the increasing prevalence of online degree programs make instructional technology experts essential in the implementation of online courses and degree programs.
According to the 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Favorable job prospects are expected. Opportunities should be best for those who specialize in subjects targeted for improvement by the No Child Left Behind Act--reading, math, and science. There also will be a need for more instructional coordinators to show teachers how to use technology in the classroom."