Human Development

Human Development

The Human Development major combines theory with hands-on experience in the classroom and in the community. This practical, applied programming is interdisciplinary and includes coursework in psychology, education, philosophy, and sociology. The Human Development major offers three areas of concentration: child and adolescent development, aging studies, and lifespan development.

Career Opportunities in Human Development

Students pursue careers in areas such as child care, child welfare, child/adolescent/family therapy, school psychology, child protective services, court services, and mental health. Additionally, career opportunities in the field of aging are expected to experience great increase in the coming decades alone, far exceeding national averages. The fastest growing categories of employment will be those requiring a university degree or higher for entry level positions. The field of gerontology, specifically, will be creating new positions to meet the growing demand for services generated by the aging population. Graduates with a major in Human Development can pursue careers in a variety of areas including adult day care, assisted living communities, advocacy groups, case management, community organizations, counseling, elder law, government agencies, HMOs, hospitals, insurance companies, marketing, mental health, nursing homes, pharmaceutical companies, religious organizations, skilled nursing facilities, and transportation. 

Internships

Four credit hours of internship are required of human development majors. Internships are available in child care facilities, schools, hospitals, community centers, substance abuse centers, older adult programs and facilities, law enforcement agencies, community mental health agencies, hospice, human resources, and community action programs. Sites for internships are available with clients of all ages: children, adolescents, and adults.