华盛顿州立大学

Human development is the study of how children, youth, adults, and families develop, change, and face challenges throughout the life span.

Students who major in human development can receive certificates in these areas:

Early Childhood Education
Adolescence
Gerontology
Family studies

A degree in human development prepares for a successful career in a variety of human services and/or educational settings

Strengths of the program
Experience working with young children in WSU's Child Development Program.

Develop skills for working in a variety of human service and educational settings.
Gain a broad perspective on individual and family development by learning from professors who teach and research a wide range of disciplines and professional areas.
Acquire a focus on physical, social, cognitive, and affective development with an emphasis on development within the family.

Suggested strengths and interests

Desire to strengthen individuals, families, and communities
Interest in current social issues and policies that impact families or individual family members
Sensitivity to the valuable contributions and unique needs of all people
Desire to learn about the development of individuals, families, and communities
Desire to learn how a variety of educational approaches, social policies, and prevention/intervention strategies can influence the development of children, youth, and families

Careers in human development
Human development graduates are employed in community action centers, Head Start family services, domestic violence programs, family support centers, childcare centers, residential treatment centers, programs for the elderly, juvenile correction programs, and youth programs.

Students who earn a teaching certificate are qualified for jobs as teachers at the middle school, junior high, or high school levels.

Additionally, human development is excellent preparation for graduate school in family therapy and human development research.