"If you are ready to challenge yourself, your preconceived notions, and the field, then Penn GSE is the place for you."
Lloyd M. Talley, Ph.D., GR'14
Providing an interdisciplinary foundation in developmental theory and research, preparing students for faculty positions and research careers.
With the freedom to craft an individualized plan of study, the Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development program allows students to explore their interests and graduate prepared for a career in academic research.
What Sets Us Apart
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December 1 Application Deadline
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Fall Entry Term
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Full-Time Enrollment Format
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16 Courses
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4 Years Fully Funded Dean's Fellowship and Research Apprenticeship
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On Campus Modality
Overview
The Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development Ph.D. program combines the study of social, emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of human development considered within cultural contexts and relevant to social policies.
Penn GSE’s commitment to urban education, as well as its West Philadelphia setting, offers students the opportunity to create a specialized program of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives of human development across the lifespan. Students work closely with their academic advisor to design an individualized course of study, allowing them to tailor their research and coursework to their specific interests within the broad field of human development.
Significant graduate-level preparation in human development or a master’s degree is recommended but not required for admission. Core areas of focus include developmental psychology, cognitive development, development in cultural contexts, and research design and analysis.
| This program qualifies for the STEM OPT extension for students on an F-1 visa. |
Take the Next Step
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Ph.D. Funding
Hear From Our Alumni
Hear From Our Alumni
Lloyd M. Talley, Ph.D., GR'14
Admissions Events
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Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
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Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Curriculum
Each student creates their own program of study in consultation with a faculty mentor. Most students are required to take these 4 courses: Human Development, Adolescent Development, Personality & Social Development, and Cognitive Development. These courses may be waived with permission from a faculty advisor. Up to 8 course units may be transferred from a master's program.
For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development Ph.D. program in the University Catalog.
Do you have questions about the coursework or faculty research?
We're happy to help! Contact the Administrative Coordinator, Dominic Homac, homac@upenn.edu
Outcomes
Graduates go on to take tenure track positions at research universities, postdoctoral fellowships, as well as research and leadership positions at nonprofit institutions.
Alumni Careers
- Assistant Professor and the Associate Director of Research for the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity, Duke University
- Assistant Professor of Psychology, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Assistant Professor, University of Virginia Curry School of Education and Human Development
- Consultation Director, HEARTS; Clinical Supervision Associate, Aurora Mental Health Center
- Instructor, Harvard Medical School
- Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Pennsylvania
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Yale University
- Program Evaluator and Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Pennsylvania
- Visiting Assistant Professor, Purdue University
- Assistant Professor, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Assistant Professor, University of Texas at Austin
- Principal Consultant, DiversiFYI Consulting
- Senior Project Administrator, Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs at Rutgers-Camden
Apply Now
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
Affiliated Faculty
Our affiliated faculty are valued members of the Penn GSE community and are leaders in their fields and disciplines across higher education and in the private sector. In addition to teaching students, many of our affiliated faculty also contribute to curricular development, research, and serve as student mentors.
Contact Us
Do you have questions about our programs, admissions requirements, or financial aid? We're here to help!
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