Human Development and Family Science Programs

The Human Development and Family Science department at North Dakota State University offers a range of programs for students interested in studying human development across the lifespan.

Developmental Science Ph.D.

The Developmental Science Ph.D. program is an interdisciplinary field that studies human development across the lifespan in various family, social, and cultural contexts. The program has exciting, relevant, and flexible opportunities for study and research to help students reach their goals.

Program Overview

At NDSU, students will be surrounded by active scholars with cutting-edge research programs in a highly supportive environment designed to help develop their interests and skills in research, teaching, and outreach. Faculty genuinely care about students' welfare and are dedicated to helping them become the best professionals they can be.

Admission Requirements

Students may enter the program directly after earning a bachelor's degree, in which case they will earn a master's degree along the way to completing their doctoral degree. If students already have a relevant master's degree and have completed a research-based thesis, they are also eligible for the program.

Program Duration

Students entering with a bachelor's degree and enrolling full-time can expect to complete the program in 5 years. Students entering with a master's degree and enrolling full-time should be able to finish the program in 3 years.

Gerontology Doctorate Dual-degree Option

At NDSU, students can combine studies in developmental science with a Doctor of Philosophy dual-major option in gerontology. The mission of the option is to promote aging-related research and education that uses a discipline-based perspective that serves to enhance the length and quality of life.

Program Details

• Developmental Science Program Faculty: The program has a team of experienced faculty members with research expertise in various areas of developmental science.
• Careers in DS: The program prepares students for careers in research, teaching, and outreach in various settings, including academia, government, and non-profit organizations.
• Application: Students can apply to the program through the Graduate School at NDSU.
• FAQs: The program has a list of frequently asked questions that provide more information about the program, admission requirements, and career opportunities.

Research Areas

The Developmental Science Ph.D. program at NDSU has a range of research areas, including:

• Human development across the lifespan
• Family, social, and cultural contexts
• Aging-related research and education
• Discipline-based perspectives on human development

Student Resources

The program provides various resources to support students, including:

• Career planning and development
• Academic and course planning
• Field experience and research opportunities
• Student support services and scholarships

Graduate Certificates

The program offers several graduate certificates, including:

• Family Financial Planning Certificate
• Gerontology Graduate Certificate
• Youth Development Graduate Certificate
• Youth Program Management & Evaluation Certificate

Master's Degree

The program offers a Master's degree in several areas, including:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Family Financial Planning
• Gerontology
• School Counseling
• Youth Development

Developmental Science Ph.D. Faculty Research

The program faculty have research expertise in various areas of developmental science, including human development across the lifespan, family, social, and cultural contexts, and aging-related research and education.

Current Students' Research and Information

The program provides information about the research interests and projects of current students, as well as their career goals and aspirations.

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.