Graduate Distance Learning Certificate Online

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Overview

Position Yourself To Lead in the Remote Education Field

The Graduate Certificate of Completion in Distance Learning at Grand Canyon University offers a flexible and convenient way to teach the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate remote education. With focused and concise training that can be completed remotely, you have the opportunity to enhance your professional qualifications at your own pace.

GCU’s graduate-level distance learning certificate is shorter than a graduate degree, allowing for a highly focused approach to advanced education. This online learning certificate program can prepare you with the tools necessary to provide your students with effective remote education.
 

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Why GCU

Benefits of Pursuing Your Online Distance Learning Certificate at GCU

The online distance learning graduate certificate program offers the same advanced level of academic rigor as standard graduate degree programs. Online distance education certificate courses are taught by the same faculty members who facilitate GCU’s graduate programs in education.

In addition to teaching comprehensive skills of distance learning, faculty in this certificate program will teach graduates from a distinct Christian perspective, allowing them to explore the integration of a Christian worldview within the realm of education. 
 


This Certificate Is Offered Online

What Is Distance Learning?

Distance learning is any type of instruction which is performed outside of the traditional face-to-face classroom environment. Distance learning can refer to the remote parts of blended instruction as well as courses which are facilitated entirely online.1

This form of instruction may also be referred to as online school, remote learning or distance learning.2 Remote education options may exist at all levels of education from Pre-K to PhD. As the capabilities of educational technology expand and increase, distance learning will become increasingly dynamic and effectual.3

Remote education will surely be a long-lasting trend, but that does not mean it is a perfect replacement for in-person instruction. Distance learning provides its own unique set of advantages and opportunities for both instructor and learner. However, fully benefiting from those advantages require specific skills, interventions and solutions.

Coursework

Online Distance Learning Certificate Courses and Topics

Throughout GCU’s graduate-level e-learning certificate programs, you will be taught foundational knowledge and skills which may be applied specifically to remote and distance learning contexts. 

Course topics include:

Organization and integration of multimedia tools and resources in school curricula

Instructional purposes and roles of technology and media in learning and teaching

Processes for selecting and implementing technologies, virtual tools and other electronic resources

Development of digital literacies in teaching and learning

Instructional theories and models in technology education, assessment and instructional technology

Multimedia instructional strategies and methods for engaging remote learning

Selection and evaluation of appropriate multimedia resources

Creation and management of distance learning software and tools for a variety of platforms

Technology standards for students and teachers

Careers

Career Opportunities for Online Distance Learning Certificate Holders

Online distance education certificate holders may have a range of career opportunities available. Completing an e-learning certificate program may serve as a valuable addition to you resume, demonstrating your expertise and commitment to the profession. 

Depending on the specific field and certificate program, you may have the opportunity to find employment in sectors such as:

Business

Digital marketing

Education

Healthcare

Technology

74.1%

Academic leaders who thought online education was equal to or superior to learning in a physical classroom4

70.8%

Chief academic officers believed online learning is a critical part of long-term education strategies4

FAQ

Online Distance Learning Certificate FAQs 

A graduate certificate can be a convenient and quick way to gain specialized knowledge and skills in a specific field. If you would like more information about this online distance learning certificate, we’ve prepared some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.

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1 TechSmith (n.d.). What is Distance Learning? The Complete Guide. Retrieved on May 26, 2023. 

2 Indeed Career Guide (2022, June 24). 13 Online Teacher Jobs To Consider Today. Retrieved on May 30, 2023.

3 Office of Educational Technology (2017 January). Reimagining the Role of Technology in Education: 2017 National Education Technology Plan Update. U.S. Department of Education. Retrieved on July 18, 2023. 

4 Allen, I. E., & Seaman, J. (2015, February). Grade Level: Tracking Online Education in the United States. Retrieved on June 9, 2023. 

5 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Education, Training and Library Occupations, retrieved on May 30, 2023. 

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