Deepening the understanding of human development across the lifespan.

The Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, M.S.Ed. program offers students the opportunity to design a personalized course of study that deepens their understanding of human development across the lifespan. 

Program Details

  • Fall Entry term

  • Full or Part-Time Enrollment Format

  • 1 Year Duration (Full-Time)

  • On Campus Modality

Overview

The Interdisciplinary Human Development, M.S.Ed. program offers students the flexibility to design a specialized course of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives on human development across the lifespan. Areas of focus may include traditional academic research, youth programming and services, urban and ethnic studies, adult development and learning, international programming (e.g., work with NGOs), foundation administration, and program development.

Designed for pre-professional training, the program prepares students to advance within their careers by developing a deeper understanding of human development issues. The Interdisciplinary Human Development, M.S.Ed. program also provides a strong foundation for those planning to pursue doctoral study in human development, family studies, and related fields.

This program qualifies for the STEM OPT extension for students on an F-1 visa.

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Application Requirements and Deadlines     Tuition and Fees     Financial Aid

Hear From Our Alumni

“I came to Penn GSE to learn how to use science-based evidence to empower children, families, practitioners, and policymakers.”

Zijin Zhang, M.S.Ed., GED'20

Hear From Our Alumni

Zijin Zhang, M.S.Ed., GED'20

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Curriculum

The Interdisciplinary Human Development, M.S.Ed. (ISHD) program offers flexibility, allowing students to complete the program at their own pace. Students can take 3-4 courses during the fall and spring semesters, 0-2 in the summer, and extend their studies for a master’s thesis. The program requires a total of 10 courses, which can be completed over one calendar year (two semesters and a summer term) or extended over two years. 

ISHD students integrate established psychological approaches with perspectives from various social sciences, including anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and social work. The program emphasizes Developmental Foundations, Social, Cultural & Policy Foundations, and both Quantitative and Qualitative Methods. All students participate in the Proseminar, which focuses on how research is conceptualized, designed, and conducted, with a strong emphasis on collecting, analyzing, and communicating developmental data.

As part of the ISHD program, students may choose an optional concentration in Applied Development and Counseling Skills. This concentration is designed for those interested in promoting human development through practical assessment and counseling techniques. Whether working with youth in schools and nonprofits, supporting college students in career counseling, or simply seeking to better understand workplace dynamics, students gain foundational communication and counseling skills that strengthen their ability to support others and lead effectively across diverse settings.

For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, M.S.Ed. program in the University Catalog.

The Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development program also offers dual majors with other Penn GSE programs. This option extends the program's length, requires additional courses, and requires approval from the second program after the student has matriculated into ISHD program and begun taking courses. Learn more about Dual and Joint Degrees at Penn GSE.

Do you have questions about the plan of study?

We're happy to help! Contact the Administrative Coordinator, Dominic Homac, homacd@upenn.edu.

Outcomes

Graduates typically seek careers in academic research, youth programming, urban and ethnic studies, research consultation, program evaluation, and advanced research. Many of our graduates go into doctoral programs in Human Development and Family Studies, and seek research and academic positions afterwards.

Alumni Careers 

  • Clinical Research Coordinator, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
  • Health Initiatives Coordinator, Cornell University
  • Research Associate, American Institutes for Research
  • Senior Research Associate, Alliance for Decision Education
  • Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Felton Institute
  • Student Services Advisor, UC Davis 

Doctoral Programs

  • Applied Human Development, Boston University
  • Educational and Counseling Psychology, McGill University
  • Human Development, Learning, and Teaching, Harvard Graduate School of Education
  • Learning Sciences and Human Development, University of Washington
  • Policy, Leadership, and Research Methods, University of California, Santa Barbara
  • Psychology and Neuroscience, St. Andrews University, Edinburgh

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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.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Our Faculty

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 the application, financial aid, or requirements? We're happy to help!

Office of Admissions and Financial Aid

Penn GSE

215-898-6415

admissions@gse.upenn.edu

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