The field of Instructional Systems is concerned with the improvement of educational and training programs through the application of research and technology. Instructional Systems is a relatively new area of specialization which draws upon the fields of psychology, communications and management in order to improve human performance.

While materials development and the utilization of technology are core skills in the curriculum, students in the Instructional Systems program also study the theoretical basis for, and receive applied training in, the total design, development, implementation, and management of education and training programs. Skill areas range from needs assessment and job analysis through system design and evaluation. The use of computers in performance improvement receives significant emphasis in the program.

Students who enter the master's program usually have little or no previous training in Instructional Systems. They represent a wide range of undergraduate majors including such areas as psychology, sociology, and English, as well as art, music, and teacher education. In the master's program, students learn the skills that will prepare them to take positions in many types of organizations including business, industry, government, and education.

Those master's graduates who choose to continue in the doctoral program are joined by master's graduates from various related academic areas. The doctoral program builds upon the practitioner skills learned in the master's program and includes emphasis on research and management skills. Recent doctoral graduates have advanced rapidly in positions with universities and major industries. Numerous international students have been attracted to both the master's and doctoral programs in Instructional Systems.