Academic Instructional Designer information
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$51.3K - $58.5K
6% of jobs
$64.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$58.5K - $65.8K
20% of jobs
$65.8K - $73.1K
19% of jobs
The median wage is $74.2K / yr.
$73.1K - $80.4K
17% of jobs
$85.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$80.4K - $87.6K
15% of jobs
$87.6K - $94.9K
5% of jobs
$94.9K - $102.2K
6% of jobs
$102.2K - $109.5K
3% of jobs
$109.5K - $116.7K
4% of jobs
$116.7K - $124K
2% of jobs
How much do academic instructional designer jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic instructional designer in the United States is $79,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $88,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Academic Instructional Designers are education professionals who specialize in creating, developing, and improving instructional materials and learning experiences for academic institutions. They collaborate with faculty and subject matter experts to design curriculum, develop course content, and integrate educational technology to enhance student learning. Their work often involves applying learning theories and best practices in pedagogy to ensure that courses are engaging, effective, and accessible. Instructional designers may work on online, hybrid, or face-to-face courses, and are integral in supporting faculty with the adoption of new teaching strategies and tools.
Academic Instructional Designers frequently work closely with faculty and subject matter experts (SMEs) to develop engaging and effective course materials. This collaboration often involves conducting needs assessments, co-designing curriculum, and providing guidance on best practices for online and blended learning. Designers may facilitate workshops or one-on-one consultations, ensuring that instructional materials align with learning objectives and accreditation standards. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as Instructional Designers often bridge the gap between pedagogy, technology, and content expertise.
To thrive as an Academic Instructional Designer, you need expertise in curriculum development, learning theory, and instructional design, often supported by a degree in education or instructional design. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), authoring tools like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate, and experience with assessment technologies are typically required. Strong project management, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively work with faculty, subject matter experts, and stakeholders. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, effective, and accessible learning experiences that drive student success.
Academic instructional designers are still in demand as educational institutions and organizations seek to develop effective online and blended learning experiences. They often require skills in curriculum development, e-learning tools, and instructional design models, with opportunities available in higher education, corporate training, and e-learning companies.
Many academic instructional designers work remotely, especially those involved in e-learning development, curriculum design, and online course creation. Remote work often requires proficiency with digital collaboration tools and a strong understanding of learning management systems. However, some positions may require on-site presence for meetings or training sessions.
An academic instructional designer degree prepares individuals to develop and improve educational materials, online courses, and training programs using instructional design principles and tools like learning management systems. Graduates can work in higher education, corporate training, e-learning development, or educational technology roles, often requiring skills in curriculum development, multimedia design, and assessment strategies.
More about Academic Instructional Designer jobs What states have the most Academic Instructional Designer jobs?
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