MSc in Human Development: Scope, Universities, and Career

The field of Human Development is a captivating journey into understanding the complexities of human life, growth, and behavior. Human development is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and culture. Pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) Human Development opens doors to a world of knowledge that can lead to fulfilling careers. In this blog, we will walk through this domain and find out everything that we want to understand about the course.

What is Human Development?

Human Development is the study of how individuals grow, develop, and change over their lifespans. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for improving the quality of life and promoting well-being in diverse populations.

A MSc in Human Development (MSHD) is a postgraduate degree that provides students with the knowledge and skills to work with people of all ages to support their development and well-being. MSHD programs typically cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Developmental psychology
• Lifespan development
• Social and emotional development
• Cognitive development
• Physical development
• Family dynamics
• Cultural influences on development
• Research methods in human development

Also Read – MA in Development Studies

Why Study an MSc in Human Development?

There are many reasons to study human development. For one, it is a fascinating field that can help us to understand ourselves and others better. Human development also has important implications for public policy, education, and social work.

1. Impactful Careers: An MS in Human Development opens doors to careers in counseling, education, research, and policy-making.
2. Holistic Knowledge: Gain a holistic understanding of human growth and behavior.
3. Make a Difference: Apply your knowledge to improve the lives of individuals and communities.
4. Develop the skills to help people of all ages. Human development graduates are equipped to work with people of all ages, from infants to older adults. They can help people to overcome challenges, reach their full potential, and live happier and healthier lives.

Top Universities Offering MS in Human Development:

Here’s a list of renowned universities offering this program, along with approximate fees and course names:

Institutes	QS World University Ranking of 2024	Fees	Course Name
Harvard University	04	$50,000	Master of Education in Human Development
University of Michigan	33	$35,000	Master of Science in Human Development
University of Pennsylvania	12	$45,000	Master of Science in Education in Human Development
University of Oxford, UK	03	£39,900	MSc in Developmental Psychology
University of Toronto, Canada	21	CAD 21,000	Master of Science in Human Development
University of Melbourne, Australia	14	AU$35,000	Master of Human Development
University of Otago, New Zealand	206	NZ$35,000	Master of Science in Human Development
University of Auckland, New Zealand	68	NZ$39,000	Master of Science in Human Development
University of Queensland, Australia	43	AU$33,000	Master of Human Development
University of Maryland, College Park	169	$30,000	Master of Science in Human Development

Admission Procedure

The admission process for MS in Human Development varies from university to university. However, there are some general requirements that most programs share. These typically include a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as psychology, education, or social work. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for MS in Human Development, you must have –

• A bachelor’s degree in a related field
• You should also have a strong GPA score of up to 4.0 
• Proof of English Language Proficiency Test like IELTS score of about 8 bands and TOEFL upto 110 scores.
• Some programs may also require other standardized tests, such as the MAT.

Also Read – Career in Child Development

 Application Process: 

The application process for MSc Human Development varies from university to university. However, there are some general steps that most programs follow. These typically include:

1. Submitting an online application

2. Paying an application fee

3. Submitting official transcripts

4. Submitting GRE scores (if required)

5. Submitting letters of recommendation

6. Submitting a personal statement

7. Apply for a Visa

Documents Required: 

The documents required for MSc Human Development applications vary from university to university. However, most programs require the following:

• Official transcripts
• GRE/MAT scores (if required)
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Passport
• Visa

Cost of Studying and Living

The cost of studying MSc in Human Development varies from university to university. However, most programs cost between $30,000 and $55,000 per year.

The cost of living varies depending on the location of the university. However, students can expect to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 per month on living expenses.

Scholarships to Study MS in Human Development:

Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid. There are a number of scholarships available to students who are interested in studying human development. Some common scholarship providers include:

•  The National Science Foundation (NSF)
•  The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD)
•  The American Psychological Association (APA)
•  The National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
•  The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

In addition to these national scholarships, many universities and colleges also offer their own scholarships for human development students.

Also Read – Career in Family Studies

Career Scope:

Human development graduates have a wide range of career options available to them. They can work in a variety of settings, including:

• Schools
• Social service agencies
• Healthcare organizations
• Businesses
• Research institutions
• Academia
• Counseling and therapy
• Policy analysis, and advocacy

Top Companies that Recruit Graduates:

Companies and organizations like UNICEF, World Bank, academic institutions, and healthcare agencies often seek professionals with expertise in human development. Some of the top companies that recruit human development graduates include:

Google	Amazon
Microsoft	Facebook
Apple	McKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group	Bain & Company
Deloitte	KPMG
PwC	Ernst & Young

Job Profiles and Salary

Here are some specific job titles that human development graduates may hold:

School counselor	Social worker
Human resources specialist	Education consultant
Child psychologist	Developmental psychologist
Policy analyst	Research scientist
Professor	Child Development Specialist
Family therapist	Marriage therapist

The average salary for MSc human development graduates varies depending on their job title, experience level, and location. Salaries can vary widely based on location and experience but typically range from $50,000 to $80,000 per year.

An MS in Human Development is a dynamic and rewarding path that equips you with the knowledge and skills to improve lives and make a meaningful impact on society. With the right education, you can embark on a fulfilling career that contributes to the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.

FAQs

If you are planning to pursue MSc Human Development, but are not sure about the process then reach out to us at Leverage Edu where the experts will provide assistance at every step of the admission process. You can also attend a brainstorming counselling session by booking 30 minutes of free career counseling with our study-abroad experienced professionals!