MS Instructional Science and Technology

A Unique Instructional Design Program

The MIST Program is an interdisciplinary MS and/or certificate program that combines the fields of instructional design, education technology, and corporate training, focused on enhancing learning in any teaching or training environment.

In 2023, CSUMB and the MIST program were rated as one of the best options for obtaining a degree online in California.

MIST responds to the increasing demand for professionals who understand learning theory, instructional design and technology, interactive media design and development, as well as assessment and research. Whether a corporate trainer, classroom educator or a person developing coursework for those professionals, the MIST program creates rich learning experiences to empower professionals to make a difference for those they serve.

Masters Program - The master’s program is available in fully online and blended delivery formats, with the blended option including residency weekends on campus.

Certificate Program - The postgraduate certificate is aimed at students who are looking to learn how to use new instructional technologies to solve their institutional learning problems.

Admissions - Review admission process, application deadlines, and application documents 

Why MIST?

Housed within the School of Computing and Design, the 16 month program emphasizes the use of technology to create effective and aesthetic web design, develops strong teaching skills, helps one to improve instructional coursework and training programs, and leads to the development of effective video production skills and programming-based design. As such, our students have done well in both private industry, public and private education, and many have gone on to doctoral programs as well.

We have had students go on or advance in their current careers as teachers, web designers, higher education professionals, corporate trainers, and multimedia specialists, which includes working at companies such as AutoDesk, Apple, National Geographic, McGraw-Hill, the Monterey County Office of Education, multiple CSU campuses, and within a myriad of other private and public sectors across the state and country. These opportunities are created through a robust instructional design internship experience tied into the program, which is required for graduation.

CSUMB and the MIST program are accredited by WASC and hold other state authorizations.

MIST Program - Online Information Sessions

Interested in learning more about the program? MIST faculty and staff are hosting information sessions through Zoom videoconferencing on the following dates:

*All of our information sessions run from 5:30-6:30pm PST.

Spring 2027 Cohort Information Sessions:

• October 15th, 2026

RSVP for Info Sessions