Study human development abroad

Human development degrees examine the complex maturation processes of individuals across their lifespans. It’s an interdisciplinary program that mixes together sociology, biology, psychology, and anthropology.

As a human development student, you’ll cover a range of fascinating topics like child education, adolescence, parenting, and aging. You’ll get to grips with crucial theories and research methodologies, as well as building the professional skills needed to pursue a rewarding career in education, charity, criminal justice, or public policy.

Studying abroad is an eye-opening experience that will enrich your understanding of the human population. You’ll gain an appreciation of the social, cultural, psychological, and biological challenges faced by populations in different parts of the world, and learn how to work with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.

Bachelor’s degrees in human development normally last three years, or four years if you study in the US. Most American universities follow the liberal arts model of education where students complete two years of general education before focusing on major-specific modules.

A bachelor’s degree will also prepare you for further study on a postgraduate course. Master’s degrees typically take one year if you study full-time, or two years if you fit your studying around work or family commitments. You’ll focus on a particular area of human development to gain a more specialist understanding.

If you’re hoping to be at the forefront of exciting research, you might consider pursuing a master’s of philosophy or PhD. These doctorate degrees allow you to carry out your own research project and ordinarily take between four and six years to finish.

Every human development program will be taught slightly differently, but most combine lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials with guest presentations and field placements. This enables you to build both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience.

Since human development is such a vast field, students traditionally have lots of elective modules to choose from. This means tailoring your degree to suit your interests and aspirations is simple. That said, most institutions still run mandatory courses in the following core areas:

• Human development foundations
• Social and emotional growth in children
• Navigating adolescence
• Familial neglect and abuse
• Managing family resources and relationships
• Adult development and aging
• Social policy and planning
• Family services and counseling

With a degree in human development, you’ll have a variety of rewarding career choices at your fingertips. You can apply your insight and expertise to several fields, including education, public health, social work, and psychology.

Here are some of the most common graduate destinations amongst human development students:

• Social worker
• Special educational needs teacher
• Lawyer
• Occupational therapist
• Psychologist
• Community health worker
• Social and community service manager
• Public health advisor

Most universities have a career service that can help you, whatever your job plans and ambitions. They can support you when it comes to finding work experience, improving your interview techniques, and perfecting your resume.