By: Mae Cornes
In recent years, the instructional design field has evolved from a niche area of academia to a critical component of corporate training and development. Organizations in various sectors are increasingly recognizing the value of well-structured learning programs to enhance their workforce’s skills and knowledge. This shift has created a growing demand for skilled instructional designers, leading to specialized educational platforms like IDOL courses. These platforms promise to equip students with the tools to excel in this burgeoning field.
Founded by Dr. Robin Sargent in 2018, IDOL courses offer a practical and flexible alternative to traditional degree programs. The centerpiece of its offerings, IDOL Academy, is a virtual vocational school designed to fast-track students into instructional design careers.
Dr. Sargent previously served as a large corporation’s Learning and Development director. She launched IDOL courses after identifying a significant gap in the availability of hands-on, real-world instructional design training.
“Instructional design is a career that can be learned through doing, not just through theory,” says Dr. Sargent. “IDOL Academy is built to immerse students in the work from day one, ensuring they are job-ready by the time they graduate.”
A Growing Industry
The instructional design market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by the increased demand for corporate training programs. According to a report by IBISWorld, the corporate training market in the U.S. alone is valued at over $150 billion, with instructional design playing a crucial role in developing and delivering these programs.
Experts expect this trend to continue, projecting the global eLearning market to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2024 to 2025.
As more companies embrace digital transformation, the need for customized, scalable training solutions is becoming more pronounced. Instructional designers are at the forefront of this shift, creating eLearning courses, virtual training sessions, and interactive modules catering to modern businesses’ diverse needs.
This has led to a surge in demand for professionals who can design effective educational experiences. Analysts project instructional design jobs to grow by 10-12% annually over the next few years.
IDOL Academy is designed to meet the growing demand for instructional design talent by offering a curriculum firmly rooted in practical experience. Each cohort is limited to 75 students, maintaining a 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio to ensure personalized attention and guidance. Students have opportunities to build real-world portfolios, participate in internships, and receive mentorship from experienced professionals in the field. IDOL Academy continually evolves its offerings to stay aligned with industry trends, preparing graduates for the ever-changing landscape of instructional design.
This hands-on method sets IDOL Academy apart from traditional academic programs, often emphasizing theory over practice.
A Career Without Boundaries
One of the most attractive aspects of a career in instructional design is its versatility. Instructional designers are not confined to a single industry; their skills are applicable across sectors ranging from healthcare and finance to technology and education.
This flexibility allows professionals to pursue various career paths and work environments, including remote positions, freelance opportunities, and full-time roles within corporations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for instructional designers is approximately $66,290, with top earners making over $100,000 per year. For many IDOL Academy graduates, the career’s financial benefits are immediate and substantial.
Dr. Sargent notes that “our graduates often see a significant increase in their income after completing the program, with some doubling their previous salaries within a year.”
Rachel doubled her income and only worked part-time.
“I interviewed with three companies within a few weeks of applying to no more than 30 jobs (easy clickable applications on LinkedIn). I was offered a contract position for 30-35 hours per week through the end of the year. Even though it’s not full-time, I doubled my income. I’m so thankful to IDOL Academy, the coaches, mentors, and other learners who helped teach me new skills and build my confidence to move forward as an ID.”
Rachael Hartman
Instructional Designer at The College of Health Care Professions
Moreover, the rise of remote work has further expanded the opportunities available to instructional designers. Many companies now offer fully remote positions, enabling professionals to work from anywhere globally. This trend has made instructional design attractive for individuals seeking financial stability and work-life balance.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the promising outlook, entering the field of instructional design takes time and effort. The competition can be intense, particularly for entry-level positions, and the expectations for job-ready skills are high. This is where IDOL Academy’s unique perspective on education becomes particularly valuable.
The program focuses on building a professional portfolio to give graduates a competitive edge in the job market. When students complete the program, they have a comprehensive portfolio showcasing their work, which they can present to potential employers. This practical experience is complemented by mentorship and career coaching, which help students navigate the complexities of the job search process.
“The instructional design field is competitive but gratifying,” says Dr. Sargent. “Our goal at IDOL Academy is to make certain that our students enter and thrive in the field. We provide them with the skills, support, and confidence they need to succeed.”
The challenges aspiring instructional designers face also present opportunities for growth and innovation. As the field continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for technically proficient, creative, and adaptable designers. IDOL Academy prepares its students to meet these demands by offering training in the latest tools and technologies and fostering a mindset of continuous learning.
This is where IDOL Talent, IDOL courses’ staffing agency, becomes a major benefit for students. Graduates not only leave with top-notch skills and real-world experience but also gain access to a direct pipeline of job opportunities through IDOL Talent. With flexible staffing options and connections to top companies, students have a fast track to landing instructional design roles, whether they’re looking for short-term projects or long-term positions.
The Future of Instructional Design
The ongoing digital transformation of businesses, coupled with the increasing need for effective corporate training programs, suggests that the demand for skilled instructional designers will continue to rise. Through its Academy and other offerings, IDOL courses are well-positioned to be a key player in this evolving landscape.
IDOL Academy is helping to shape the next generation of instructional designers by providing a practical, accessible, and career-focused education. For those looking to enter a high-paying, flexible, and dynamic career, IDOL courses offer a clear and direct path to success.
Published By: Aize Perez
