Delivered 100% online, the NC State Graduate Certificate in Teaching, Training, & Educational Technology consists of five 3-credit courses focused on teaching, training, and the use of technology in a variety of educational environments. Students can tailor the program to meet their needs and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to design and deliver course-related content though face-to-face, technology-enhanced, and e-learning environments.
Program Description
The program is designed for mid-career individuals who may be without academic preparation for their current positions, or for those choosing to increase their knowledge and for future job opportunities.
Students may choose one of the following specialty areas described below.To be awarded the Certificate, all required courses must be taken and one elective is allowed. Transfer credit from other institutions is not allowed.
Admission Requirements
We accept students from a wide range of educational backgrounds.To qualify for admissions, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in any field. International applicants must also have a TOEFL score of 80 or higher. Admission decisions are made based on several criteria including undergraduate GPA, work history, and interest in the field.
The Certificate is a “Graduate” certificate program, meaning applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year college or university. Students with Associates degrees from two-year community colleges are not eligible. It may help to think of the certificate as a step between an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree (although those already holding a graduate degree are welcome to apply). Up to 12 hours of course work taken in the certificate program may be applied, under certain circumstances, to a graduate degree at NC State. Admission to the certificate program, however, carries no guarantee that a student will be admitted to the Graduate School in any degree program. Such decisions are made separately from the certificate admissions process. Graduate students at NC State who are already enrolled in a degree program are eligible to earn the certificate in addition to their degree.
Curriculum
The core curriculum for the program will depend on the Certificate Specialization:
A tentative schedule of course offerings can be found on the Course Offering Schedule which can help in the planning process.
Specializations
Talent Development
The specialization emphasizes the operational components of workplace learning and development addressing organizational needs, the design of instructional systems, methods and techniques of training, evaluation of learning, and organizational change. The specialization is tailored to individuals who are, or aspire to be, business owners, consultants, c-level decision makers, managers, and training specialists in a variety of organizational settings.
If you still have questions contact us at awcpe_program@ncsu.edu.
Required Courses:
- EAC 559 – The Adult Learner
- EAC 582 – Organization and Operation of Training & Development Programs
- EAC 586 – Methods and Techniques of Training & Development
- EAC 692 –TTET Capstone project
Elective Courses (Choose 1):
- EAC 556 – Organization Change in HRD: Theory & Practice
- EAC 580 – Designing Instructional Systems in Training & Development
- EAC 584 – Evaluating Training Transfer & Effectiveness
Instructional Design
The specialization emphasizes the design of instructional content using a variety of models (e.g., ADDIE and SAM) in different learning contexts (e.g., rapid design, online, etc.). The program develops skills in needs assessment, designing instruction, and evaluation of instructional content. The specialization is tailored to individuals who will be designing course content in organizations or higher educational environments.
If you still have questions contact us at awcpe_program@ncsu.edu.
Required Courses:
- EAC 580 – Designing Instructional Systems in Training & Development
- EAC 581 – Advanced Instructional Design in Training & Development
- EAC 583 – Needs Assessment and Task Analysis in Training & Development
- EAC 692 – TTET Capstone project
Elective Courses (Choose 1):
- EAC 559 – The Adult Learner
- EAC 584 – Evaluating Training Transfer & Effectiveness
- EAC 585 – Integrating Technology into Training Programs
E-Learning/Educational Technology
The specialization emphasizes the design of instructional systems, the integration of technology into learning environments, and the evaluation of learning in technology-enhanced learning environments. The specialization focuses on developing key skills and strategies for innovative e-learning design and development, and enhancing professional practice across all educational settings.
If you still have questions contact us at awcpe_program@ncsu.edu.
Required Courses:
- EAC 539 – Teaching in the Online Environment
- EAC 580 – Designing Instructional Systems in Training & Development
- EAC 585 – Integrating Technology into Training Programs
- EAC 692 – TTET Capstone project
Elective Courses (Choose 1):
- EAC 581 – Advanced Instructional Design in Training & Development
- EAC 583 – Needs Assessment and Task Analysis in Training & Development
- EAC 560/584 – Assessment & Evaluation
Community College Teaching
The specialization emphasizes teaching and learning in community college settings and focuses on teaching and learning theories, strategies, assessment and evaluation, and becoming adept in both face-to-face and technology-rich educational formats. The specialization is targeted to current and aspiring post-secondary teachers.
If you still have questions contact us at awcpe_program@ncsu.edu.
Required Courses:
- EAC 538 – Instructional Strategies in Adult & Higher Education
- EAC 559 – The Adult Learner
- EAC 560 – Assessment & Evaluation in Adult & Higher Education
- EAC 692 – TTET Capstone project
Elective Courses (Choose 1):
- EAC 539 – Teaching in the Online Environment
- EAC 700 – Community College and Two-Year Postsecondary Education
Community College Leadership
The specialization focuses on leadership theories and structures to address the unique needs of the community college and technical education system.
Required Courses:
- EAC 595 – Special Topics (Leadership)
- EAC 556 – Organization Change in HRD: Theory & Practice
- EAC 517 – Current Issues in Higher Education
- EAC 692 – Capstone Project
Elective Courses (Choose 1):
- EAC 555 Ethics in the Workplace and Education
- EAC 602 – Seminar in Adult & Higher Education, Leadership for Student Success
Teaching Career and Technical Education
Required Courses:
EAC 559 – The Adult Learner (3 hours)
An inquiry into the characteristics and background, learning processes, motivation and participation of adult learners in a variety of educational contexts. Emphasis on adult learning theories, models, principles and their application to educational design and delivery.
EAC 692 – TTET Capstone project (3 hours)
A project or problem in research in education for graduate students, supervised by members of graduate faculty. Choice of research on basis of individual students’ interests and not to be a part of thesis or dissertation research.
TED 530 – Foundations for Teaching Technology (3 hours)
Three topics related to teaching technology at the secondary and post-secondary levels: philosophical and historical foundations; methodology and curriculum development; and current trends and issues. Emphasis is on developing critical thinking skills, research, technology skill development, and writing procedures.
TED 556 – Laboratory Management and Safety in TED (3 hours)
Laboratory management, planning, and safety considerations for technology education. Analysis of recent research, environmental factors, development of a safety system, safety education, and legal implications. Use of student leaders in management of a safe learning environment. Offered by Distance Education Only.
TED 641 – Internship in Technology Education (3 hours)
Classroom teachers will document products of learning to include: content pedagogy, student development, multiple instructional strategies, motivation and management, professional growth and community involvement.
Testimonials
“As someone who is making a transition into Instructional Design, I highly recommend the online TTET program at NCSU. The program is designed to cater to professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds and varying experience levels. This makes for excellent discussions in classes and not to forget, networking opportunities. The instructors in the program are excellent and there is as much to learn from the way they design and facilitate their classes as there is from the course content. With a good mix of independent and group work, there is plenty of opportunity for interaction with your peers. This program is Distance Education at its finest.”
– Aarti Ramanathan, TTET Graduate Certificate Student
“One of the best things about NCSU’s TTET program is it has a unique focus in training and development and offers the instructional design track, whereas other programs typically have an instructional technology track. Through this program I was able to learn the skills necessary to secure my next position and grow as a librarian. What I most enjoyed about this program is the ability to learn not only from experienced faculty members, but also from my classmates who come from a variety of work environments. Using real-world problems, and speaking with practicing professionals, for class projects has been the most memorable thing about this program because I wanted more than a theory heavy program. I wanted to implement the skills I was learning in my place of work right away. NCSU’s TTET understands that its students are working adults and the flexibility of the classes has been wonderful. I’m very happy with choosing in NCSU’s graduate certificate and would do it again if I had to choose.”
– Ronunda Claiborne, TTET Graduate Certificate Student
“I really enjoyed my time both in the Certificate Program for TTET and Masters Program for Training and Development here at NC State. Working toward those goals, I gained more confidence, ability and know-how to pursue new and challenging opportunities in my job. In fact, I often was able to turn classroom activities into real projects at work! The faculty and staff in both the Certificate and Masters Program were extremely knowledgable, kind and welcoming. As a full-time working mom, I couldn’t have asked for a better learning environment that truly provided a meaningful, relevant experience. I would encourage anyone who is seeking personal or professional growth to absolutely explore distance learning and the TTET Online Programs.”
– Samantha McCuen, TTET Graduate Certificate Alum
Additional Information
Costs for the program are based on the Graduate Flexible Access Distance Education fee schedule and North Carolina Residency Status. Tuition and Fee costs are reviewed each academic year.
The Graduate Certificate does not qualify for financial aid or scholarships. However, we do recommend that you contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid to learn about other possible forms of financial assistance. Most required reading materials are available at no cost through the NC State library system, however, you may need to purchase a textbook depending on the course design. On average textbooks cost $50 to $150. Other costs may include some hardware and software you will need, depending on the status of your computer.
FAQ
Is this a cohort-based program?
A cohort is a group of students admitted at the same time into a program and enroll in all of their courses together. Although building an online learning community is very important in distance education, we realize that all students may not be able to maintain a schedule of more than one course per term. For this reason, the program is NOT a cohort-based program.
Is on-campus attendance required?
No on-campus attendance is required to complete the program. All courses are delivered via the Internet and can be accessed anywhere from a viable Internet connection.
Is synchronous attendance required?
Some courses in the program do require students to meet online at the same time to participate in synchronous whole-class or small group activities. Any required meetings will be announced in each individual class.
What hardware/software is required to participate in the program?
At a minimum, participants must have ready access to a desktop or laptop computer that meets or (preferably) exceeds the NC State recommendations for computers you already own. While this configuration is sufficient, we recommend that students upgrade their current machine or consider purchasing a computer that meets (or exceeds) the recommendations for new computer purchases.
Connectivity: At a minimum, students must have dial-up access with a 56k modem. To improve access speed and enhance the playback quality of video/audio materials, we strongly suggest that students who are accessing courses from home consider investing in a high speed Internet service.
Educationally priced software is available for purchase at the NC State Bookstores. Students must have access to a Web browser. Several browser plug-ins are required for each course (Acrobat Reader, Flash, RealPlayer, etc.). You will be informed of the plug-in requirements in each course.
Which course management systems or platforms are graduate certificate courses taught through?
Students will be using Moodle and the Blackboard Collaborate two-way audio conferencing tool.
Does the application process require taking an admissions test such as the GRE?
No, because the certificate is a non-degree program, an admissions test is not required.
Does the application process require a fee?
Yes, a $25 fee is charged to apply.
What are the costs involved in enrolling in the online program?
Current tuition information can be obtained through the office of Distance Education. You can access information about the cost of current distance courses at NC State Distance Graduate Tuition under the flexible access option.
In addition to tuition costs, you can expect an average of $50 to $150 per course in textbooks. Other costs may include some hardware and software you will need, depending on the status of your computer.
Is financial aid available to students enrolled in the certificate program?
Students enrolled in non-degree certificate programs are generally not eligible for financial assistance. To be eligible for financial aid, students must be enrolled in degree programs offered by the University. However, we recommend that you contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid to find out if other options are available.
Is there a certain sequence or order in which courses must be taken?
The Capstone course (EAC 692) must be taken last. Other than that, courses may be taken in any order. No course is a prerequisite for any other course in the program.
How long will it take me to complete the coursework for the certificate?
Because the certificate is not sequenced, you have choices of how many courses to take per term and which courses to take. Most students are employed full-time and therefore try to take one or two courses each term, completing the certificate in 9-18 months. Students have up to 2 1/2 years to complete the program. Students are required to maintain continuous enrollment in the Fall and Spring semesters, but are not required to enroll in more than one course per term.
I went to register for a course, but it was full. Do I have to wait a year to take the course?
We cannot guarantee enrollment in a “closed” course that is full to capacity. Many online courses are capped at about 20-25 students to maintain the quality of student-instructor and student-student communication. Students should pay close attention to enrollment calendars to be sure they register when courses first open. This will help ensure you get into the courses you want without running into a “closed” course. A tentative Course Offering Schedule is provided to help you plan when you take your courses.
If I have to take a semester off or can’t get into a course I need, what happens?
It’s very important that students maintain continuous enrollment and take at least one course every fall/spring semester (excluding summer terms). If a student must take a fall/spring semester off for personal reasons or because they can’t get into a course that is needed, their account will automatically be placed on “inactive” status by the Registrar’s office. The student will be unable to register for future courses until they contact the program coordinator who must request the student’s account be reactivated through the Graduate School. If a student is inactive for a year or less, they will not have to reapply, just request their account be reactivated. If a student is inactive for more than a year, there is no way to reactivate their account and they must reapply to the certificate program.
After I’ve completed the required coursework, what do I do?
When all certificate coursework is completed, the student will apply to graduate through MyPackPortal as early as possible in the final semester of coursework. The certificate will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks following the graduation date for each semester.
Can I transfer classes from my graduate certificate into a degree program?
Up to 12 hours of course work taken in the certificate program may be applied, under certain circumstances, to a graduate degree. Admission to a certificate program, however, carries no guarantee that the student will be admitted to the graduate school in any degree classification. Students who earn credits in a certificate program and are interested in transferring these credits to a graduate degree at NC State should contact the Program Coordinator in the degree program of interest.