Program Overview
Delve into the scientific study of the biological, cognitive, and social development of young humans.
The Department of Psychology and Human Development is a group of scholars who work to increase understanding of basic psychological functioning in family, school, and other social contexts that influence development.
Psychology Programs
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Child Development
Focusing on children from infancy through adolescence and the contexts in which they live--including family, peer, school, community, and cultural influences--this program offers excellent preparation for graduate work in psychology, medicine, nursing, social work, education, or public policy. -
Child Studies
An interdisciplinary major with a broader focus than child development, child studies enables you to work with children outside formal educational settings. -
Cognitive Studies
If you are intrigued with the process of learning itself, this major will shed light on how people think, solve problems, and reason. The program frequently sends students on to graduate work in the social and behavioral sciences or areas such as medicine and law that stress inquiry and clear thinking. -
Language Sciences
If you are intrigued by the science of language, this major will provide insights into the scientific study of language structure, language use, and the methods used to generate that knowledge. Language science is an increasingly impactful field, driven by the growth of natural language processing tools and global trends like multilingualism and migration that create demands for language-related services in industry, healthcare, and education.
Psychology Minors
The minor in Child Psychology and Mental Health focuses on the development of psychopathology, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders; evidence-based assessment and treatment of psychological disorders in children and adolescents; and clinical science research methods. Because emotional and behavioral functioning are central to human life, these studies will be useful to those interested in the behavioral sciences and education and particularly relevant for those interested in clinical research careers.
The minor in Language Sciences emphasizes language theory and research in the behavioral sciences. A working knowledge of the basic processes involved in speaking, understanding, and reading will benefit students interested in the learning sciences.