Introduction

The Department of Human Development & Learning offers programs that focus on the application of developmental learning and other psychological principles in a wide variety of settings including home, school, workplace, and community. Teaching and Counselor programs leading to licensure are offered. Courses in teacher education and the behavioral sciences are provided both for majors and students in other academic areas. 

The Department is comprised of four programs: offering the following options within each program:

1. Counseling

a. EdS in Counseling Leadership

b . MA in Counseling (with concentrations in Community Mental Health Counseling, Higher Education, Couples and Family Therapy, and School Counseling)

2. Early Childhood

a. PhD in Early Childhood Education

b. MA Early Childhood Education (with concentration in Initial Licensure PreK-3, Master Teacher, or Researcher)

c. Bachelor of Science degree: Early Childhood Development (PreK-3 Licensure and Non-licensure degrees)

3. Foundations of Human Development & Learning

a. Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services (with focus on Human   Development, Social Services, Offender Services, or Health Services)

b. Opportunities are provided for students to directly impact the community and their education by engaging in experiential learning through Service-Learning and through Federal Work Study with the America Reads Challenge Program.

c. Educational Foundations courses are provided to support programs in the College of Education consistent with the college’s core requirements regarding knowledge, skills, and values deemed to be essential requisites for all of the college’s graduates.

4. Special Education

a. MEd in Special Education (Initial Licensure in Modified, Comprehensive, or Early Childhood Special Education, and Non-licensure Advanced Practitioner)

b. Bachelor of Science with Initial Licensure in Modified or Comprehensive Special Education

The Department offers individuals holding professional teaching certification an opportunity to add an endorsement in Early Childhood (PreK-3) and Special Education. 

Minors are also offered in Early Childhood, Special Education, Human Development and Learning, Education, Interdisciplinary Minor in Leadership Studies, and Family Studies.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Human Development and Learning is to apply scientifically-based knowledge to enhance the development of diverse peoples across the lifespan, and further to generate more knowledge and create models of service in the communities we serve.