BS/BA in developmental psychology
Study human development across the lifespan. Complete coursework in topic areas including social and emotional development, cognitive development, language development, emotional and behavioral disorders, biological development, and research methods.
Our developmental psychology (formerly called child psychology) undergraduate program is offered through the College of Liberal Arts (CLA).
- Take classes with field-leading faculty in the #1 ranked developmental psychology program in the nation (U.S. News and World Report, 2018).
- Prepare for graduate study or a career in a field that impacts the lives of children and youth.
- Have the opportunity to study abroad and experience child development across cultures through classes and internships in places like France, Denmark, London, or Australia.
- Join the Developmental Psychology Student Organization to connect with other developmental psychology students and engage with our surrounding community.
100%
of students complete directed research with a faculty member or an internship experience
Choose your degree path
Bachelor of arts (BA)
Build a liberal arts foundation that includes a second language requirement. Take courses in developmental psychology and complete an internship or directed experience to apply what you learn. Learn more
Bachelor of science (BS)
Pursue a degree with a stronger emphasis on research. Replace the second language requirement with additional courses in developmental psychology. Complete an internship and directed research experience. Learn more
Minor
Take classes in social and cognitive development. A minor in developmental psychology is often paired with majors like psychology, neuroscience, sociology, family social science, early childhood education, or business. Learn more
Meet your advisor
We're here to answer any questions you have about the program.
I meet with undergraduate students to discuss program requirements and career goals. I am excited to get to know you and help you along your path. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with questions.
Academic advisor: Meghan Allen Eliason
Get in touch: cpsyadvis@umn.edu
Declare or add a major
Schedule an advising appointment
Careers
With a degree in developmental psychology, you'll be prepared for graduate study or for a career in fields like health care, science, education, business, consulting, marketing, nonprofit, human services, and social justice.
Our alumni have pursued careers including:
- Behavioral Therapist Aide - Partners in Excellence
- Program Coordinator - Meridian Services
- Psychometrist (Neuropsychology) - Fraser
- Child Development Specialist - Recovery Resource Center
- Mental Health Practitioner and Registered Nurse - The Emily Program
- Special Education Paraprofessional - Independent School District 197
- Child Care Teacher - Encompass Early Education and Care
- Health & Benefits Consulting Analyst - Mercer
- Chief Operating Officer - East Side Neighborhood Services
- Occupational Therapist - University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics
- Human Resources Coordinator - Pentair
- Domestic And Sexual Violence Advocate - Cornerstone Advocacy Services
- Youth Response Center Leader - The Bridge for Youth
- Parks and Recreation Leader - City of Hopkins and Minnetonka
- Child Protection Social Worker - Hennepin County Child Protection
Tuition and funding
Visit OneStop Student Services to learn more about tuition and financing.
Visit the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) financial aid and scholarships page to find out more about CLA-specific opportunities.
Anne D. Pick Award for Outstanding Child Development Major
The Anne D. Pick Award honors Professor Anne Pick’s commitment to undergraduate students and their education. Students who major in developmental psychology are eligible to receive the Anne D. Pick award. Recipients of the award receive a certificate and a scholarship of $500 and up to $750 in travel/research funds. Students also have their name inscribed on a plaque at ICD. Students who have reached their maximum financial aid award aren't eligible for the $500 scholarship, but are eligible for up to $750 in travel/research funds. Learn more
Additional resources
- OneStop: Grants, education benefits, and tuition waivers or reductions
- Office of Admissions scholarship information
- Office of Admissions financial aid basics
- McNair Scholars program
- CLA scholarships for continuing students
- Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)
- Office for Equity and Diversity scholarships
- Disability Resource Center scholarship information
- Women’s Center scholarship information
Get started
First-year student admissions
First-year student admissions are handled through the University Admissions Office. You're considered a first-year student if you graduated high school and are starting your first-year of college at the U of M.
Transfer admissions
If you're interested in transferring to CLA, review their transfer admissions website.
You're considered a transfer student if you've registered or enrolled at a college, university, or any other school after graduating from high school. Current U of M students who are not in CLA are also considered transfer students.
Declare or add a major
Are you a current U of M student who would like to declare or add a developmental psychology major? Please visit our developmental psychology student resources Google site for further information (U of M login required).
If you'd like to add a minor in developmental psychology, visit our developmental psychology minor page for information on requirements and the declaration process.
Google site - U of M login required
Interested in taking an undergraduate developmental psychology course but aren't a student at the U of M? Visit OneStop Student Services to learn more about how to register.