14 Top-Rated AI Instructional Design Courses (Free/Paid in 2025)

Are you passionate about creating engaging and transformative learning experiences? Do you aspire to become an instructional design professional?

Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top instructional design courses to boost your learning design skills and advance your career.

With a variety of free and paid instructional design courses, as well as certificate programs and master’s degrees, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to embark on a learning journey that will accelerate your skills and open doors to new opportunities! Let's go through the following together:

• Explore top-notch free and paid instructional design courses, certificate courses, and master's programs from renowned institutions and course providers to gain fundamental knowledge and skills in instructional design.
• Equip yourself with the essential tools & resources to be successful in the field. With Disco's learning platform, you are fully equipped to take this exciting journey of becoming an Instructional Design Professional.

Top-Rated AI in Instructional Design Courses

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing instructional design by offering innovative solutions for creating engaging and efficient learning experiences.

As the demand for personalized and automated educational content grows, AI provides instructional designers with the tools to enhance their design process and deliver impactful learning.

This section explores top-rated AI courses that equip professionals with the skills needed to integrate AI into their instructional design toolkit, paving the way for a transformative approach to education.

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#1. "The AI Game-Changer for L&D" by Uplimit

What you'll learn:

• Gain a comprehensive introduction to AI, including its history, evolution, and implications in Learning and Development (L&D).
• Understand the practical applications of AI in instructional design to enhance learning experiences, improve engagement, and optimize outcomes.
• Explore ethical considerations of using AI in L&D to navigate potential challenges and controversies.
• Learn how AI can be leveraged to revolutionize learning experiences for instructional designers, educators, and those interested in the field.

The course is included in the Uplimit membership.

#2. AI for Instructional Design Workshop by ATD

Participants will leave with actionable skills for integrating AI into instructional design projects, improving course efficiency, and staying ahead in the competitive e-learning space.

What You’ll Learn:

• Gain foundational knowledge of AI and its impact on learning and development.
• Explore AI tools like ChatGPT and other generative AI models to streamline content creation and personalize learning experiences.
• Learn to design AI-powered learning interventions, automate routine instructional design tasks, and enhance learner engagement.

Pricing for members is set at $895, while non-members can access the course for $1,145.

#3. AI for Course Design (Coursera - University of Colorado Boulder)

This course allows you to seamlessly use AI to design scalable, efficient, and learner-centered courses. It is ideal for beginners and experienced educators looking to innovate their processes.

What You’ll Learn:

• Hands-on guidance for using AI tools to generate learning content, assessments, and feedback mechanisms.
• Explore strategies to adapt AI-driven tools for diverse learner profiles and educational settings.
• Understand ethical considerations and limitations when incorporating AI into educational experiences.

Enroll for free!

#4. Learning Design with Artificial Intelligence (UC Online)

Learners will acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical insights to transform their instructional design practices with AI innovations.

What You’ll Learn:

• Deep dive into the role of AI in modern instructional design and learning technologies.
• Use AI to analyze learner data and create adaptive, personalized learning pathways.
• Discover cutting-edge AI-driven tools and platforms for rapid course prototyping and iterative design.

The pricing for domestic learners is $654, including GST, where applicable. International learners pay $1,440, also including GST, where applicable.

#5. "Instructional Design using ChatGPT Prompt Writer" by Udemy.

This unique Udemy course blends instructional design with AI. It provides valuable insights into using ChatGPT to create engaging and effective learning experiences.

This course is a great asset for educators looking to leverage AI in their instructional design process. By taking this ID using the ChatGPT Prompt Writer course, you'll understand how AI can personalize and enhance learning experiences.

It will also guide you through integrating AI into your instructional design process, providing practical examples and case studies. So, if you're an educator who wants to stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of AI in your work, this course is a must-try.

Pricing: $10

Best Instructional Design Courses [FREE]

Instructional design is a highly sought-after skill in today’s rapidly evolving world of online education. To kickstart your journey, we’ve compiled a list of the best free instructional design courses available today.

These will give you the fundamental knowledge and skills to thrive in this industry. Offered by the finest institutions, these courses cover a wide range of instructional theories, enabling you to create collaborative learning experiences for students.

#6. Free Online Instructional Design Courses by Alison

What you'll learn:

• Understand the foundational principles of instructional design and their application in creating effective learning experiences.
• Explore a range of instructional theories and eLearning concepts essential for developing engaging educational content.
• Gain insights into the art of teaching and how to apply instructional design principles to enhance your career.
• Complete a comprehensive program consisting of seven courses, each focusing on different aspects of instructional design.
• Achieve a solid foundation in instructional design, culminating in an online certificate accredited by CPD.

It's a free course.

#7. "Online Learning Design for Educators" by Coursera

Coursera offers a highly specialized free online course, Online Learning Design for Educators.

This course is ideal for educators who want to transition their teaching skills to an online environment. It is divided into three main sections: the foundations of online teaching, creating online content, and using digital tools for online teaching.

Free for every learner.

#8. Coursera's "Learning to Teach Online" course

Explore the realm of educational technology and online teaching strategies through Coursera’s Learning to Teach Online course, an excellent resource for educators aiming to adapt their teaching skills to an online environment.

This comprehensive course equips participants with strategies for creating engaging online content and utilizing digital tools effectively for online teaching. It also offers a professional graduate certificate for an additional fee, providing a valuable addition to your resume.

A free course from Coursera.

#9. Learning Design Basics: Pedagogy into Practice by OpenLearning

If you’re keen on mastering effective learning design principles, OpenLearning’s Learning Design Basics course is an excellent launchpad.

With a focus on various teaching formats, including face-to-face, online, and blended learning, this free course will equip you with the know-how to create captivating learning experiences.

A free course from Open Learning.

Top Instructional Design Courses [Paid]

Should you be prepared to further your instructional design skills and crave a more thorough learning experience, you might consider enrolling in a premium instructional design course.

These courses offer in-depth knowledge and practical experience that will enhance your instructional design expertise. From eLearning design to instructional design academies, there are various options to choose from based on your needs and budget.

#10. "Introduction to Instructional Design" by Harvard University

Harvard University’s Introduction to Instructional Design course offers a project-based approach to learning instructional design theories and frameworks. This prestigious course, priced at $3,220, will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to create effective learning experiences in both formal and informal settings.

With a focus on pedagogy and learning outcomes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an instructional design pro by following the instructional design process.

Pricing: $3,220

Best Certificate Programs in Instructional Design

Aspiring to escalate your career? Enrolling in a top-tier instructional design certificate program could be an excellent move. These programs offer a more structured learning path and an official certificate upon completion, significantly boosting your job prospects.

From Georgetown University to the University of Wisconsin-Stout, these programs provide comprehensive coverage of instructional design skills that will make you an attractive candidate in the job market.

#11. "Online Certificate in Instructional Design" by Georgetown University

Emphasizing social impact and mission-driven organizations, Georgetown University’s Online Certificate in Instructional Design is a 4-month program that teaches the essentials of e-learning and the tools necessary for developing courses and programs.

As a technology graduate certificate, it ensures that students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in instructional design.

Priced at USD 4,990, this program offers an excellent opportunity to gain expertise in e-learning instructional design and make a difference in the world of education.

#12. "Instructional Design Certificate" by University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers a 4-online course program focusing on instructional design, content development, and project management.

Priced at $5,712, this program delves into topics such as learning theory, computer-based training, video production, and analytics.

With a duration of 9 months, you’ll have ample time to master the skills needed to succeed in the instructional design field.

Top Master's Degrees for Instructional Designers

Aiming for a holistic learning experience? A master’s degree in instructional design might be worth considering.

These programs offer in-depth knowledge and practical experience, preparing you for a successful career in the instructional design field.

#13. "Instructional Design and Technology" MicroMasters Program by EdX

EdX offers an innovative MicroMasters Program in Instructional Design and Technology. This program is a collaboration between the University System of Maryland (USMX) and the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC).

The program is divided into four graduate-level courses, each lasting about ten weeks.

Upon completion, students will have a robust understanding of the instructional design process, be able to create engaging and effective learning experiences, and utilize technology to enhance learning outcomes.

The MicroMasters program also provides a pathway to credit in a full Master's program at UMGC. So, if you're seeking a comprehensive, flexible, and affordable learning experience in instructional design, this MicroMasters is definitely worth considering.

#14. "Master of Professional Studies in Learning Experience Design and Technology" by Northeastern University

Northeastern University’s Master of Professional Studies in Learning Experience Design and Technology is a cutting-edge program that equips students with the skills to design, develop, and implement effective and innovative learning experiences.

This online master's program is designed for professionals who are passionate about improving the learning experience through technology. It focuses on the latest trends and technologies in the field, providing students with a deep understanding of learning theories, design processes, and technologies that can enhance learning.

Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with the skills to design and implement effective learning experiences in various settings, from K-12 and higher education to corporate and non-profit environments.

Tuition cost: USD 38,000

Tips on Choosing the Right Instructional Design Course

Selecting the right instructional design course involves considering your career aspirations, budget, and learning preferences. Ensure to evaluate the comprehensive coverage of ID skills, portfolio creation, and job outcomes when assessing different courses.

Remember, investing in a quality course or degree program can be truly beneficial in becoming a highly skilled specialist in instructional design. Ultimately, the right course for you depends on your needs and aspirations.

In summary, having a strong foundation in these tools and resources and the conceptual and theoretical foundations will ensure you’re fully prepared to excel in the instructional design field.

Don't forget to consider your career goals, budget, and learning preferences when selecting the right course. The world of instructional design awaits – take the first step today and make a lasting impact on the learning experiences of others.

Equipping yourself with critical tools and resources is necessary for instructional designers to craft effective online learning experiences.

Disco: The AI Learning Platform for Every Instructional Designer

If you want to improve your online courses and training programs, consider exploring Disco, the leading and complete learning platform for instructional designers. Disco provides a comprehensive suite of tools and features specifically tailored to the needs of instructional design professionals.

The Highlight: Our learning platform offers a collaborative environment where you can work with other instructional designers, share ideas, and learn from each other. This feature makes Disco a tool and a community for instructional design professionals.

So, if you want to enhance your instructional design skills and deliver a high-quality learning experience, it is worth trying. Explore Disco today and see how it can transform your instructional design process.