• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Coursera
  • Online Degrees
  • Careers
  • Log In
  • Join for Free
    Coursera
    • Browse
    • Instructional Design

    Instructional Design Courses

    Instructional design courses can help you learn how to create effective learning experiences using educational theory, technology, and learner-centered strategies.

    Skip to search results

    Filter by

    Subject
    Required
     *

    Language
    Required
     *

    The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

    Learning Product
    Required
     *

    Build job-relevant skills in under 2 hours with hands-on tutorials.
    Learn from top instructors with graded assignments, videos, and discussion forums.
    Learn a new tool or skill in an interactive, hands-on environment.
    Get in-depth knowledge of a subject by completing a series of courses and projects.
    Earn career credentials from industry leaders that demonstrate your expertise.
    Earn career credentials while taking courses that count towards your Master’s degree.
    Earn your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree online for a fraction of the cost of in-person learning.
    Complete graduate-level learning without committing to a full degree program.
    Earn a university-issued career credential in a flexible, interactive format.
    Graduate level learning within reach.

    Level
    Required
     *

    Duration
    Required
     *

    Skills
    Required
     *

    Subtitles
    Required
     *

    Educator
    Required
     *

    Find the Best Instructional Design Course for Your Goals

    • M

      Microsoft

      Designing for User Experience

      Skills you'll gain: Storyboarding, User Research, Information Architecture, User Experience Design, Persona (User Experience), Design Research, Design Thinking, User Centered Design, Wireframing, Usability Testing, Prototyping, Innovation, Creativity

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      65 reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • J

      Johns Hopkins University

      Neuroscience and Neuroimaging

      Skills you'll gain: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Neurology, Medical Imaging, Anatomy, Radiology, Image Analysis, Data Analysis, X-Ray Computed Tomography, Analysis, Data Manipulation, Experimentation, R Programming, Statistical Analysis, Psychology, Network Analysis, Data Processing, Regression Analysis, Research Design, Scientific Visualization, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.2K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Embedding Sensors and Motors

      Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Process Control, Machine Controls, Embedded Systems, Electronic Systems, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Embedded Software, Electronics, Automation Engineering, Hardware Design, Statistical Process Controls, Manufacturing Processes, Basic Electrical Systems, Electronic Hardware, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Components, Electrical Systems, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Power Electronics, Three-Phase

      Build toward a degree

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2.8K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • D

      Duke University

      Java Programming: Solving Problems with Software

      Skills you'll gain: Debugging, Java, Algorithms, Statistical Analysis, Software Design, Computer Programming, Integrated Development Environments, Data Processing, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Analysis, Software Testing

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      8K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of California, Davis

      Introduction to Google SEO

      Skills you'll gain: Search Engine Optimization, Web Analytics and SEO, Target Audience, Keyword Research, Consumer Behaviour, Google Analytics, Marketing, Digital Marketing, User Research, Content Strategy, Web Content

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      10K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Textual Elements of Design: Fonts, Typography, and Spacing

      Skills you'll gain: Typography, Graphic and Visual Design, Design, Graphic Design, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Design Software, Design Elements And Principles

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      273 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • U

      University of Michigan

      Statistics with Python

      Skills you'll gain: Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Sampling (Statistics), Statistical Modeling, Statistical Methods, Statistical Inference, Statistics, Bayesian Statistics, Data Visualization, Matplotlib, Statistical Visualization, Probability & Statistics, Statistical Analysis, Jupyter, Statistical Programming, Regression Analysis, Data Visualization Software, Predictive Modeling, Data Analysis, Exploratory Data Analysis, Descriptive Statistics

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.3K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • I

      IE Business School

      Marketing Strategy

      Skills you'll gain: Survey Creation, Surveys, Marketing Planning, Market Research, Business Research, Product Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Value Propositions, Market Analysis, Marketing, Business Planning, Marketing Channel, Peer Review, Product Strategy, Target Market, Research Design, Data Analysis, Marketing Strategies, Marketing Communications, Strategic Marketing

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.1K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google Cloud

      Essential Google Cloud Infrastructure: Foundation

      Skills you'll gain: Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Storage, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Google Cloud Platform, Cloud Computing Architecture, Cloud Computing, Network Infrastructure, Virtual Machines, Cloud Management, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Command-Line Interface, Firewall

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      17K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • T

      The Museum of Modern Art

      Modern Art & Ideas

      Skills you'll gain: Art History, Aesthetics, Culture, Social Justice, Creativity, Storytelling, Design, Design Elements And Principles

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.6K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free
      Free
      U

      UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)

      Learning to Teach Online

      Skills you'll gain: Education Software and Technology, End User Training and Support, Technical Communication, Quality Assurance, Innovation, Digital Transformation, Emerging Technologies, Digital Communications

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.2K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free
      Free
      C

      Coursera Project Network

      Graphic design: pop your Linkedin with 3D effect using Canva

      Skills you'll gain: Canva (Software), LinkedIn, Graphic Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Computer Graphic Techniques, Social Media Content, Professional Networking, Design Elements And Principles

      4.4
      Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
      ·
      64 reviews

      Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

    Searches related to instructional design

    instructional design foundations and applications
    1…242526…379

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular instructional design courses

    • Designing for User Experience: Microsoft
    • Neuroscience and Neuroimaging: Johns Hopkins University
    • Embedding Sensors and Motors: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Java Programming: Solving Problems with Software: Duke University
    • Introduction to Google SEO: University of California, Davis
    • Textual Elements of Design: Fonts, Typography, and Spacing: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Statistics with Python: University of Michigan
    • Marketing Strategy: IE Business School
    • Essential Google Cloud Infrastructure: Foundation: Google Cloud
    • Modern Art & Ideas: The Museum of Modern Art

    Why Learn Instructional Design?

    Instructional design focuses on developing educational content and experiences that help people learn effectively—whether in classrooms, online platforms, or workplace training. It blends learning science, curriculum development, and digital tools to support meaningful outcomes. Learning instructional design can prepare you to create engaging learning solutions across education, business, and nonprofit sectors.

    Skills you can learn in Business Essentials

    Analytics (37)
    Presentation (33)
    Modeling (29)
    Business Analytics (27)
    Language (26)
    Microsoft Excel (26)
    Writing (26)
    Speech (18)
    Plan (17)
    Business Communication (16)
    Decision-making (16)
    Leadership (15)

    Frequently Asked Questions about Instructional Design

    Instructional design courses cover a variety of topics essential for creating effective educational programs and materials. These include the fundamentals of learning theories, instructional strategies, and curriculum development. Learners will explore topics such as needs assessment, learning objectives, and the use of technology in education. Advanced courses might cover e-learning design, multimedia development, and assessment techniques. Practical projects and case studies help learners apply these concepts to design and evaluate instructional materials for different learning environments.‎

    Choosing the right instructional design course depends on your current skill level and career aspirations. Beginners should look for courses that introduce the basics of instructional design, including learning theories, instructional strategies, and curriculum development. Those with some experience might benefit from intermediate courses focusing on e-learning design, multimedia development, and the use of technology in education. Advanced learners or professionals seeking specialized knowledge might consider courses on instructional design for specific contexts, such as corporate training or higher education, or preparing for certifications like CPTD (Certified Professional in Talent Development). Reviewing course content, instructor expertise, and learner feedback can help ensure the course aligns with your goals.‎

    A certificate in instructional design can open up various career opportunities in education, corporate training, and e-learning development. Common roles include instructional designer, e-learning developer, training specialist, and curriculum designer. These positions involve creating and evaluating educational programs, developing online courses, and designing training materials for various audiences. With the growing importance of effective learning solutions in both educational and professional settings, earning a certificate in instructional design can significantly enhance your career prospects and opportunities for advancement in fields such as education, corporate training, healthcare, and government.‎

    Yes, Coursera offers a variety of free courses across many topics, including instructional design. While you can access most course materials for free by auditing the courses, this does not include graded assignments or a completion certificate. For those looking to obtain a certificate to showcase their learning or enhance their professional profile, Coursera provides the option to purchase the course. Additionally, Coursera offers free trials or financial aid to learners who qualify, making certifications more accessible to everyone.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

    Other topics to explore

    Arts and Humanities
    338 courses
    Business
    1095 courses
    Computer Science
    668 courses
    Data Science
    425 courses
    Information Technology
    145 courses
    Health
    471 courses
    Math and Logic
    70 courses
    Personal Development
    137 courses
    Physical Science and Engineering
    413 courses
    Social Sciences
    401 courses
    Language Learning
    150 courses

    Coursera Footer

    Technical Skills

    • ChatGPT
    • Coding
    • Computer Science
    • Cybersecurity
    • DevOps
    • Ethical Hacking
    • Generative AI
    • Java Programming
    • Python
    • Web Development

    Analytical Skills

    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Big Data
    • Business Analysis
    • Data Analytics
    • Data Science
    • Financial Modeling
    • Machine Learning
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Power BI
    • SQL

    Business Skills

    • Accounting
    • Digital Marketing
    • E-commerce
    • Finance
    • Google
    • Graphic Design
    • IBM
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Social Media Marketing

    Career Resources

    • Essential IT Certifications
    • High-Income Skills to Learn
    • How to Get a PMP Certification
    • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
    • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
    • Popular Data Analytics Certifications
    • What Does a Data Analyst Do?
    • Career Development Resources
    • Career Aptitude Test
    • Share your Coursera Learning Story

    Coursera

    • About
    • What We Offer
    • Leadership
    • Careers
    • Catalog
    • Coursera Plus
    • Professional Certificates
    • MasterTrack® Certificates
    • Degrees
    • For Enterprise
    • For Government
    • For Campus
    • Become a Partner
    • Social Impact
    • Free Courses
    • ECTS Credit Recommendations

    Community

    • Learners
    • Partners
    • Beta Testers
    • Blog
    • The Coursera Podcast
    • Tech Blog
    • Teaching Center

    More

    • Press
    • Investors
    • Terms
    • Privacy
    • Help
    • Accessibility
    • Contact
    • Articles
    • Directory
    • Affiliates
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Do Not Sell/Share
    Learn Anywhere
    Download on the App Store
    Get it on Google Play
    Logo of Certified B Corporation
    © 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
    • Coursera Facebook
    • Coursera Linkedin
    • Coursera Twitter
    • Coursera YouTube
    • Coursera Instagram
    • Coursera TikTok