The Digital Learning Specialist (DLS) program at Plymouth State University prepares candidates to serve as instructional leaders in K–12 schools through the purposeful, ethical, and innovative use of technology.
Designed around the New Hampshire Department of Education (NHDOE) competencies and the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards, the program emphasizes instructional design, professional learning, equity of access, and the safe use of digital tools.
Program-at-a-glance
Coordinator: Dr. Pam Harland
Program Type: Part-time, Online
Time to Complete: 1 to 3 years
Estimated Cost: $643/cr In-State | $874/cr Out-State
Credits: 30
Application Deadline: Rolling Admission via PSU Application
Accreditation: NECHE
GPA Requirement: 3.0 or better
Career Outcomes:
- Meets NH Dept of Education Standards for K-12 Digital Learning Specialist Certification
- Prepared for jobs as a digital learning specialist, technology integrator, or digital learning coach
Curriculum & Requirements
Optional Concentrations in this Major
Digital Learning Specialist MEd, Non-Certification
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Core Component | ||
| ED 5000 | Understanding Social Behaviors | 3 |
| IN 5400 | Imagination, Creativity and Innovation | 3 |
| ED 5030 | Research Design | 3 |
| Education Component | ||
| ED 5060 | Exploring Learning Theories and Cognitive Growth | 3 |
| SE 5581 | Technology for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| Specialization Component | ||
| CE 5010 | Leadership & Management | 3 |
| CE 5040 | Technology & Innovation | 3 |
| CE 5050 | Media Literacy: Information Agency for Digital Citizens | 3 |
| CE 5120 | Digital Learning in K-12 Schools | 3 |
| Capstone Experience | ||
| ED 6900 | Graduate Capstone Project | 3 |
| Total Credits | 30 | |
Digital Learning Specialist MEd, K–12 Certification
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Core Component | ||
| ED 5000 | Understanding Social Behaviors | 3 |
| IN 5400 | Imagination, Creativity and Innovation | 3 |
| ED 5030 | Research Design | 3 |
| Education Component | ||
| ED 5060 | Exploring Learning Theories and Cognitive Growth | 3 |
| SE 5581 | Technology for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| Specialization Component | ||
| CE 5010 | Leadership & Management | 3 |
| CE 5040 | Technology & Innovation | 3 |
| CE 5050 | Media Literacy: Information Agency for Digital Citizens | 3 |
| CE 5120 | Digital Learning in K-12 Schools | 3 |
| Capstone Experience | ||
| CE 5960 | Digital Learning Specialist Teaching Internship | 3 |
| Total Credits | 30 | |
Digital Learning Specialist, K–12 Certification Only
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Education Component | ||
| ED 5060 | Exploring Learning Theories and Cognitive Growth | 3 |
| SE 5581 | Technology for Diverse Learners | 3 |
| Specialization Component | ||
| CE 5010 | Leadership & Management | 3 |
| CE 5040 | Technology & Innovation | 3 |
| CE 5050 | Media Literacy: Information Agency for Digital Citizens | 3 |
| CE 5120 | Digital Learning in K-12 Schools | 3 |
| Capstone Experience | ||
| CE 5960 | Digital Learning Specialist Teaching Internship | 3 |
| Total Credits | 21 | |
Digital Designer: Candidates will effectively use technology with differentiation, rigor, relevance, and engaging learning experiences in their practice of teaching, learning, and assessment.
Digital Learner: Candidates will continue to deepen knowledge and expertise with technological concepts and pedagogy.
Digital Citizen: Candidates will model responsible and safe participation in the digital world.
Collaborative Coach: Candidates will develop innovative professional learning opportunities and evaluate the impact on instructional practice and learner competencies.
Visionary Leader: Candidates will promote and participate in the development and implementation of collaborative strategies for the comprehensive integration of technology to foster excellence to support transformational change throughout the instructional environment.
Candidates in this Master's level online program are prepared to become digital learning specialists, technology integrators, and/or digital learning coaches. Candidates complete the program with certification as a Digital Learning Specialist in the state of NH.
Admission Information
Requirements
The Digital Learning Specialist programs require the following materials to be submitted through our online application
- Recommended 3.0 or better GPA in undergraduate coursework
- Official transcripts from any/all college level work
- One professional recommendation
- Current Resume
- Statement of interest
- NH Residency Verification form (NH residents only)
Deadlines
Students pursuing Digital Learning Specialist programs can apply for admission to any of the upcoming semesters. Here are the annual application deadlines:
- Fall semester – August 1
- Spring semester – Extended to December 31
- Summer semester – April 15
*We suggest submitting your documentation at least two weeks prior to the posted date to ensure your application is complete and can be reviewed by the deadline.
2025-26 Estimated Graduate Per Credit Tuition and Mandatory Fees
| New Hampshire Resident | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Mandatory Fees | Per Credit Total | ||
| Master’s Degrees/Certificates | $599 | $44 | $643 | |
| CAGS | $641 | $44 | $685 | |
| EDD | $698 | $44 | $742 | |
| Out-of-State Resident | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Mandatory Fees | Per Credit Total | ||
| Master’s Degrees/Certificates | $830 | $44 | $874 | |
| CAGS | $802 | $44 | $846 | |
| EDD | $888 | $44 | $932 | |
More information is available through the Student Financial Services Office.
Graduate students are eligible for financial aid in the form of student loans only. You will need to complete the FAFSA at least 30 days prior to the start of the semester you wish to begin taking classes. International students are not eligible for federal financial aid – please review our international admission requirements to learn more.
More information can be found on the Student Financial Services website.
Each year, Plymouth State offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships to admitted graduate students. Selection criteria include academic and professional achievements, commitment to graduate study, and achievement or pursuit of personal or professional goals. Visit the PSU Scholarship Opportunities webpage for additional information.
Explore Program Details
-
Clinical Associate ProfessorProgram Coordinator, Digital Learning Specialist; Library MediaEmail: pcharland@plymouth.eduPhone: (603) 535-3097
-
Explore Today.
Realize Tomorrow.
