Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture
September 26, 2026 2026-09-26 9:06Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture
An interdisciplinary graduate program designed to prepare professionals to understand and address human growth, learning processes, cultural influences, and social development across diverse communities and educational environments. The program integrates advanced theories of human development with learning sciences, psychology, culture, education, social systems, and applied research.
Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture
US$ 5,940
36 Credit Hours
18 Months
9–12 Months
3 Credit Hours
US$ 5,940
Understand Human Growth, Learning, and Culture
Integrate advanced theories of human development with learning sciences, psychology, culture, education, social systems, and applied research to support human potential across diverse communities.
The Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to prepare professionals to understand and address human growth, learning processes, cultural influences, and social development across diverse communities and educational environments. The program integrates advanced theories of human development with learning sciences, psychology, culture, education, social systems, and applied research.
Students examine human development across the lifespan, cognitive and social learning processes, cultural influences on behavior and education, identity formation, community development, diversity, and innovative approaches to supporting human potential. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary research, culturally responsive practices, inclusive learning environments, human-centered leadership, and the application of developmental knowledge to improve individual and community outcomes.
Graduates develop advanced competencies in human development, learning assessment, cultural analysis, educational practice, research, and program development, preparing them for careers in education, community organizations, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, research centers, human services, and organizational development.
Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture
18 Months — Traditional Learning Track
9–12 Months — Fast-Track Learning Program
3 Credit Hours per Course
US$ 5,940
Exclusive of applicable University administrative fees
Required Courses
The Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture requires 36 total credits.
| Course No. | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HLC 6000 | Foundations of Human Development and Learning Sciences | 3 |
| HLC 6010 | Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan | 3 |
| HLC 6020 | Culture, Identity, and Human Behavior | 3 |
| HLC 6030 | Cognitive Development and Learning Processes | 3 |
| HLC 6040 | Social and Emotional Development | 3 |
| HLC 6050 | Diversity, Equity, and Culturally Responsive Practice | 3 |
| HLC 6060 | Learning Environments and Human Development Applications | 3 |
| HLC 6070 | Research Methods in Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| HLC 6080 | Community Development and Social Change | 3 |
| HLC 6090 | Applied Human Development, Leadership, and Professional Practice | 3 |
| HLC 6100 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Course Descriptions
Select a course to view its description.
HLC 6000 – Foundations of Human Development and Learning Sciences
Introduces the interdisciplinary foundations of human development and learning sciences. Students examine theories, research approaches, and applications related to human growth, learning, behavior, and social development.
HLC 6010 – Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan
Examines physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development from childhood through adulthood. Students explore developmental theories and their implications for education, communities, and human services.
HLC 6020 – Culture, Identity, and Human Behavior
Explores the influence of culture, identity, social environments, and lived experiences on human behavior, learning, relationships, and personal development.
HLC 6030 – Cognitive Development and Learning Processes
Examines cognitive theories of learning, memory, motivation, problem-solving, intelligence, and the psychological processes that influence how individuals acquire knowledge and skills.
HLC 6040 – Social and Emotional Development
Analyzes social relationships, emotional development, resilience, communication, and factors influencing individual and collective well-being across developmental stages.
HLC 6050 – Diversity, Equity, and Culturally Responsive Practice
Examines diversity, inclusion, equity, cultural responsiveness, and strategies for creating supportive environments that respect varied identities and experiences.
HLC 6060 – Learning Environments and Human Development Applications
Explores educational, workplace, and community environments that influence human learning and development. Students examine strategies for designing effective and supportive learning experiences.
HLC 6070 – Research Methods in Human Development and Learning
Develops advanced research skills in human development, learning sciences, qualitative and quantitative methodologies, data analysis, and applying research findings to real-world challenges.
HLC 6080 – Community Development and Social Change
Examines community systems, social change processes, human services, empowerment approaches, and strategies for improving community well-being and development.
HLC 6090 – Applied Human Development, Leadership, and Professional Practice
Focuses on applying human development theories to leadership, organizational settings, education, counseling support services, and professional practice.
HLC 6100 – Master's Thesis
Students complete an original research thesis addressing a significant issue in human development, learning, culture, education, or social development. Under faculty supervision, students conduct research, analyze developmental challenges, and develop evidence-based recommendations for improving human outcomes.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for professional, research, educational, community, and organizational roles focused on human growth and development.
Employment Sectors
Graduates may pursue employment in educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, community development organizations, human services agencies, research institutions, training and development organizations, corporate learning and development departments, international development organizations, social service organizations, educational consulting firms, youth and family support programs, public administration organizations, healthcare and wellness organizations, diversity and inclusion offices, community-based organizations, policy and research centers, and global development organizations.
Ready to Understand Human Development, Learning, and Culture?
Explore the Master of Arts in Human Development, Learning and Culture and take the next step toward supporting human potential through interdisciplinary research, culturally responsive practice, and human-centered leadership.
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