Human Development
Want to understand why people do what they do—and build a career helping them?
The Bachelor of Science in Human Development at Stephens College provides a deep understanding of how people develop traits and behaviors across the lifespan.
With specialized tracks in Child Study and Psychology, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed for a meaningful career in counseling, education, or healthcare.
This human development degree is designed for students who want to combine scientific inquiry with practical application, benefiting from our on-campus laboratory school and a commitment to personalized study.
Real Behavior. Real Experience. Real Impact.
Stephens Human Development is built differently—and that’s the advantage.
- Two Specialized Tracks: Choose between Child Study or Psychology to align with your specific career goals.
- On-Campus Laboratory: Gain immediate experience at the Children’s School at Stephens College, serving students from pre-K through fifth grade.
- Strong Psychology Foundation: Examine complex issues in gender, forensic, and biological psychology.
- Pathway to Advanced Practice: Build the groundwork for our Master’s program in Counseling or other graduate studies.
Human Development is a versatile social science degree that prepares you to work with people of all ages—from early childhood intervention to geriatric care in retirement communities.
Industry Experience—Early and Often
You won’t just read about human behavior; you’ll observe and influence it in real-time.
- The Children’s School: Work alongside master-level teachers in our on-site laboratory school, gaining hands-on experience in child development and observation.
- Community-Wide Studies: Investigate human behavior through research projects that engage with the broader community.
- Case Study Analysis: Use a strong foundation in math and science to analyze and solve complex psychological case studies.
- Specialized Research: Explore niche areas like forensic psychology to find your specific calling.
What Can You Do With a Human Development Degree?
A BS in Human Development from Stephens College prepares you for a variety of high-impact fields:
- Child Study Track: Prepare for roles in schools and pre-K settings, or build a solid foundation for graduate work in child psychology or education.
- Psychology Track: Launch a career in healthcare working with adults, including roles in social services, retirement homes, or community health.
- Counseling & Psychology: Lay the groundwork for a Master’s in Counseling or a Ph.D. in Psychology.
- Research & Advocacy: Work for non-profits or agencies focused on human welfare and behavioral research.
Is This Major Right for You?
This program could be a great fit if you:
- Are fascinated by why people think and act the way they do
- Want to work with children in a laboratory school setting
- Are interested in a career in counseling or mental health
- Enjoy using science and data to solve human problems
- Want the flexibility to focus on either child development or adult psychology
- Want a career dedicated to improving the lives of others
The Stephens Advantage
- Personalized Mentorship: Benefit from Stephens’ commitment to personalized child study and small class sizes.
- On-Site Resources: Direct access to the Children’s School for observation and practicum hours.
- Professional Community: Join Psi Chi, the international psychology honor society, or SLATE, our student education club.
- Integrated Learning: A curriculum that bridges the gap between theoretical psychology and practical human development.
- A Women’s College Environment: Build the confidence and leadership skills necessary to excel in the social sciences and healthcare.
Facilities & Community
- The Children’s School at Stephens College: Our on-site laboratory school serves as a primary resource for students in the Child Study track, providing a controlled environment to observe and participate in early childhood and elementary education.
- Psychology Labs: Utilize modern resources to study physiological and forensic psychology.
- Psi Chi & SLATE: Engage with peer networks that provide professional development, networking, and community service opportunities.
I have been truly empowered. Stephens has given me so many opportunities to expand my education in an environment driven by women.
Desiree Fernandez ’21, Human Development Major
What does a block schedule look like?
Take a look at the below sample block schedule for a first-year Human Development major. The Block offers the rare opportunity to focus on what matters: learning, doing, and getting ready for your future. Want to know more? Contact an Advisor academicaffairs@stephens.edu.
Related programs
Contact Us
human development
Sean Travis Clouse, Adjunct Instructor
(573) 876-7261
(573) 876-7261
sclouse@stephens.eduWebb Child Study Center 102