Research and development careers are at the heart of innovation. Whether designing new learning solutions, improving performance systems or strengthening workplace culture, research and development professionals help make it happen. These roles require curiosity, analytical thinking and the ability to turn insights into action.
Boise State’s online Master of Science in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning goes beyond coursework by giving students opportunities to participate in 100% online labs led by expert faculty. While optional, these labs help you build the kind of portfolios that employers enthusiastically seek.
Here’s a breakdown of what research and development jobs look like, the career paths you can pursue through the Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning (OPWL) program and why hands-on learning is essential for success.
What are research and development jobs?
A broad definition of research and development encompasses the process of studying and innovating products, services or technologies, and utilizing this information to improve existing products or invent new ones. Research and development career paths that you can pursue through OPWL require collaboration and critical thinking skills for success and career advancement.
Research and development career paths to consider
With a projected growth of 6% through 2034 and a median salary of $127,090, research and development jobs are in high demand. Within the OPWL program, this demand translates into several promising career paths you can pursue. The addition of graduate certificates — which can easily be folded into the master’s degree plan or completed standalone — also provides an opportunity for growth and a more diverse portfolio when looking for a job after graduation.
Here are a few sample career paths you can consider based on your area of study:
Instructional design, learning and development and e-learning
- Instructional designer
- Learning and development specialist or manager
- E-learning designer
- Learning management system manager
Organizational development, performance improvement and consulting
- Organizational development specialist, manager or director
- Performance improvement specialist or consultant
- Chief people officer or head of culture
- External consultant
Human resources, talent and workforce development
- Human resources specialist or manager
- Talent development manager or director
- Workforce development specialist or manager
- Training specialist or manager
Why research and development careers require more than traditional coursework
Research and development work goes beyond textbook knowledge. It requires you to:
- Ask the right questions
- Communicate complex ideas clearly
- Collaborate with stakeholders
- Solve real-time problems
- Back up decisions with data
Employers increasingly value hands-on experience — not just what you know, but what you’ve done. That’s why Boise State’s OPWL program includes research labs where you can put theory into practice, build confidence and demonstrate impact.
How OPWL research and development labs build real-world skills
Employers are typically looking for candidates with impressive portfolios, project examples and clear evidence of impact. The hands-on, project-based learning environment of the OPWL program’s faculty-led research and development labs gives you the opportunity to build confidence, competence and an impressive portfolio of work.
“What I enjoy most is seeing students connect research to practice in ways that are both rigorous and relevant. In the Learning Systems and Design Lab, students are not just learning to ‘do’ design, they’re learning to ask thoughtful questions, consider ethical implications and contribute to scholarship that aims to bring real-world application. It’s especially rewarding to see them gain clarity on how they can make a difference, not just by delivering training, but by understanding how they can improve human performance,” OPWL Clinical Assistant Professor Victoria Abramenka-Lachheb said.
OPWL faculty and staff also help connect students with internships, research opportunities and full-time roles. Many employers, including some OPWL alumni, actively recruit students from the program.
Learn more about the OPWL program
Earning an online Master of Science in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online degree is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.