The Master of Educational Technology and Applied Learning Sciences (METALS) program at Carnegie Mellon University is a prestigious, interdisciplinary graduate program that prepares students to become leaders in the educational technology and learning science industries. With an emphasis on both theoretical and practical knowledge, METALS combines principles from cognitive science, human-computer interaction (HCI), computer science, and design. The goal is to equip students with the tools to create innovative, research-backed learning environments and technologies that enhance education globally.
Program Overview
METALS is a one-year intensive program that blends academic theory with hands-on projects. Offered jointly by Carnegie Mellon’s Human-Computer Interaction Institute and the Department of Psychology, it stands out as one of the few programs that bring together learning science and technology development in a comprehensive way. The program attracts students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including education, psychology, computer science, design, and engineering. It is designed for those who want to transform how people learn by applying cutting-edge research and designing advanced educational tools, platforms, and environments.
Core Objectives
The METALS program is grounded in several core objectives: interdisciplinary learning, where students draw from multiple disciplines to solve complex educational problems; research-based design, which focuses on developing learning technologies supported by evidence from the learning sciences; real-world application, which prepares students to work on industry projects and collaborate with clients; and professional development, which cultivates the communication, collaboration, and technical skills required in modern workplaces.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured over three semesters: Summer, Fall, and Spring. It includes foundational courses, technical and design-oriented electives, and a capstone project with an external client. In the Summer Semester, students take foundational courses such as “Learning in Humans and Machines,” and either a programming or design bootcamp, depending on their background. The Fall Semester includes applied courses like “Design of Educational Games and Tools,” “Research Methods for Learning Environments,” and “Learning Media Design.” Students also start planning their capstone projects. In the Spring Semester, the focus shifts to advanced electives and the capstone project. Courses may include “Data-Driven Product Design,” “AI in Education,” “Cognitive Task Analysis,” and “Designing for Diverse Learners.” Professional development sessions also continue throughout the program.
Capstone Project
The capstone is a key feature of the METALS program. Spanning several months, it involves a team-based project with an external client—such as a tech company, nonprofit, or educational institution. Students conduct user research, design prototypes, test learning outcomes, and present final deliverables to the client and faculty. This real-world experience prepares students for industry roles upon graduation. Past capstone clients have included leading companies in educational technology, working in areas such as K-12 education, workplace learning, and language acquisition.
Faculty Expertise
The METALS program is led by renowned faculty from Carnegie Mellon’s top-ranked schools, including the Human-Computer Interaction Institute, the Department of Psychology, and the School of Computer Science. These faculty members bring expertise in areas such as learning science, human-computer interaction, UX/UI design, data analytics, AI in education, and cognitive psychology. Students benefit from personalized mentorship and a collaborative learning environment.
Career Outcomes
METALS graduates are in high demand across industries. Their interdisciplinary skill set qualifies them for roles such as learning experience designers, instructional designers, UX designers, curriculum developers, educational product managers, and data scientists in education. Alumni have been employed by major tech companies including Google, Amazon, Duolingo, and Khan Academy, as well as in academic and nonprofit settings. Some graduates also pursue Ph.D. programs or launch their own edtech startups.
Student Life
Despite its rigorous nature, METALS promotes a vibrant student life. Students participate in campus events, design showcases, and interdisciplinary hackathons. The cohort model fosters close collaboration, peer support, and networking. The program draws students from around the world, enriching discussions with diverse perspectives and global experiences.
Admissions Overview
Admission to METALS is competitive and holistic. While a background in computer science or design can be helpful, applicants from fields such as education, linguistics, and business are welcome. Requirements include a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, resume/CV, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency test scores for international students. Optional materials include a portfolio and GRE scores, which can enhance an application but are not mandatory.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
While the program does not offer universal scholarships, financial aid options are available. These include external scholarships, graduate assistantships, and employer sponsorships. U.S. students from underrepresented backgrounds may qualify for fellowships like the CMU Rales Fellows Program, which covers tuition and living costs.
Why Choose METALS?
Carnegie Mellon’s METALS program offers a unique blend of world-class reputation, real-world experience, interdisciplinary learning, and career-readiness. The curriculum prepares students to lead change in education by leveraging technology, design, and research. Whether you aim to influence classrooms, corporations, or educational startups, METALS equips you with the skills and connections to make a lasting impact.
Alumni Testimonials
Graduates often speak of the program’s transformative impact on their careers. Many highlight the strong mentorship, collaborative environment, and hands-on projects that helped them land meaningful roles in education and tech. One alumnus, now working as a learning experience designer, noted: “The METALS program gave me the perfect balance of design, research, and technology. The capstone project helped me build confidence in my abilities, and the connections I made helped me land a job I love.”
Future of Educational Technology
With AI, data analytics, and immersive technologies revolutionizing how people learn, the METALS program positions its graduates at the forefront of innovation. It trains professionals who are not only job-ready but capable of reshaping the future of learning and development across industries.
Final Thoughts
The METALS program at Carnegie Mellon University is a forward-thinking, immersive graduate program for those passionate about learning, design, and technology. It prepares students to make an immediate impact across education, tech, and beyond. Whether you’re an educator, a designer, or a technologist, METALS provides the tools, mentorship, and experiences to bring your vision for better learning to life.