Objectives
Our graduate program has three major objectives.
- Train students to critically evaluate theories and research about human development from conception to adulthood.
- Prepare students to conduct cutting-edge, programmatic research
- Help students acquire skills to be effective teachers and mentors for undergraduate and graduate students.
These objectives are achieved through a combination of course work, structured research experiences, occasional instructional responsibilities, and, especially, individualized mentoring by faculty members.
Key features
- Extensive involvement in research begins during the first year and continues throughout the graduate program to facilitate students’ development of a programmatic line of research in their own specific area of interest.
- Course work is largely “front loaded” to provide students with a background in developmental theory, research, and methods.
- Flexibility in course selection helps students build a background in their specific area of interest.
- Close mentoring by faculty advisors gives students increasing autonomy as their research skills develop.
- Opportunities to serve as a teaching assistant and/or course instructor allow students to gain teaching experience.