2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Dec 17, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Human Sciences (M.S.) - Developmental Sciences Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus, Online


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Program Coordinator/Contact

Amber Letcher, Professor
School of Education, Counseling and Human Development
Wenona Hall 314
605-688-4941

Program Information

The Human Sciences (M.S.) - Developmental Sciences (DS) Specialization provides students with graduate training in an interdisciplinary field that examines human development across the lifespan in cultural, social, and family contexts. Students will complete advanced coursework in the areas of child, adolescent, and adult development with an emphasis in multiculturalism, diverse learners, and learning sciences. The specialization provides advanced training for individuals working in outreach and advocacy, health, and human services, education, and businesses and corporations.

Course Delivery Format

Courses for the Developmental Sciences Specialization will be delivered on campus in Brookings and online.

Student Learning Outcomes


  • Human Development - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the major human development domains. 
  • Diversity - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of multicultural and pluralistic trends, including characteristics and concerns within and among diverse groups nationally and internationally.
  • Integration of Developmental Science - Utilizing practice, prevention, and policy, students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the developmental sciences. 
  • Communication - Students will demonstrate critical and innovative thinking. 

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Master of Science Option A - Thesis 36 Credit Hours
  Option C - Coursework Only 36 Credit Hours

Select one of the following options


Select one of the following options


Option A - Thesis


Option C - Coursework Only


  • Electives determined in consultation with advisor Credits: 6

Total Required Credits: 36 (Option A & C)


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

  • STEP 1: Applicant Applies to the Graduate School
    • Apply to the Graduate School at least two months before the program deadline to allow for processing.
    • Graduate School applications received after the program deadline will be denied and referred to the next semester.
    • The minimum GPA to apply is 2.75, however a 3.0 or higher is desired.
    • GRE is not required.
  • STEP 2: Applicant Applies to the Program 
    • Applicants to the program must submit the documents below by April 1 for fall admission or October 1 for spring admission. Late or incomplete applications will be denied.
    • Resume
    • A one page, typed goal statement explaining your professional goals and how completion of this degree will assist you in meeting those goals.
    • Two letters of recommendation prepared within the past year; one letter must come from an academic professor.
  • STEP 3: Admissions Decision
    • Complete admission files will be reviewed by faculty for an admissions decision. The Graduate School will notify the applicant via email about their admission status.

Accelerated Master’s Program


The accelerated master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to twelve (12) graduate level credits may apply to the undergraduate degree as major requirements or electives with approval from the student’s academic advisor, department head/school director, and college dean. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements


Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .