Mission Statement

The primary mission of the Human Developmental Sciences (HDS) program is to explore lifespan development from the perspective of how biological, psychological, and socio-cultural phenomena interact interdependently in developmental systems of great complexity. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the program, we recognize and address the central role of socio-cultural diversity and individual differences in small and large scale communities. The program promotes open inquiry, research and practice in understanding lifespan development, and strives to support its objectives by providing:

• A rigorous academic training emphasizing interdisciplinary preparation
• Opportunities for the development of applied research and practice skills
• Opportunities for shaping individual learning through close relations between students, instructors and staff
• Training in innovative technologies and analytic skills.
  
  _{Explore how HDS incorporates Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion issues in both scholarship and practice in our specialization and minor. Additionally, explore the HDS Program's novel lifespan specialization and minor on Healthy Aging}

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Students graduating with a degree in Human Developmental Sciences should be able to do the following:

• Successfully communicate through written language for informational, persuasive, and expressive purposes, by analyzing the major theoretical and analytical concepts of human development.
  
  
• Effectively articulate how the different facets of human development interact and are interdependent upon each other, and present findings relevant to the field.
  
  
• Collect, interpret, and analyze data obtained from experimental and observational studies of humans, to inform and solve issues and programs within the field of human development.
  
  
• Research and interpret information from literary, experimental, and observational research studies in human development, evaluating and using this information effectively and ethically.
  
  
• Critically evaluate issues and inquiries in all the facets of human development, ranging from biological underpinnings, cognitive and social functioning and the role of society and culture in shaping human development.
  
  
• Successfully collaborate with and seek involvement from people with diverse experiences and identities towards a common research goal, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, respect, and dignity for others.
  
  
• Demonstrate integrity, honesty, dependability and ethical responsibility, and accept direction and personal accountability.
  
  
• Demonstrate the ability to assess, articulate, and acknowledge skills and abilities that build across the curriculum. From making simple connections among ideas and experiences to synthesizing and transferring learning to new, complex situations within and beyond the campus.
  
  
• Access information and opportunities for career exploration, and understand and articulate the importance of transferable skills in the job search process.
  
  
• Participate in service/volunteer activities characterized by reciprocity, engage in critical reflection, and appropriately challenge unfair and unjust behavior to make a positive difference in the community.