VIRGINIA TECH · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Human Development, Virginia Tech
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 31 credit hours minimumTotal Credit Hours
- Thesis or Non-Thesis OptionDegree Structure
- Fall AdmissionApplication Term
- Blacksburg CampusLocation
The Master of Science (MS) in Human Development at Virginia Tech offers a comprehensive graduate program focused on understanding the complexities of human growth and family dynamics across the lifespan. The program is housed within the Department of Human Development and Family Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. Students can pursue a thesis or non-thesis option, allowing for tailored academic pathways. The program is designed for students interested in advanced study and research in areas such as adult development, child development, and family science.
Curriculum
The MS in Human Development program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours. This includes core courses, electives, and either a project/report or research component, depending on the chosen degree option.
- Year 1
- Adult Development and AgingHD 5104
- Child Development in the Family ContextHD 5224
- Marriage and Family RelationshipsHD 5324
- Research Methods & LabHD 5514
- Elective 1
- Elective 2
- Year 2
- Project and Report OR Research
- Elective 3
Careers
Graduates of the MS in Human Development program are prepared for a variety of roles in research, program management, and community outreach. The program's rigorous curriculum equips students with analytical and practical skills applicable to diverse professional settings.
- Human Development Researcher
- Family Life Educator
- Program Coordinator
- Community Outreach Specialist
- Non-profit Management
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall, with sub-scores of 18 in Reading, 18 in Listening, 18 in Speaking, and 18 in Writing, or a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5.
- What academic qualifications are needed for admission to the MS in Human Development program?
- Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in their major. Relevant undergraduate coursework is also required.
- How many credit hours are required to complete the MS in Human Development program?
- The program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a research component or project/report.
- What are the application deadlines for the MS in Human Development program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is March 1 for the Regular Master's option and December 1 for the Accelerated Master's option.
- What documents are needed for the application?
- You will need to submit transcripts, a personal statement, a writing sample, and three letters of recommendation.
- What are the estimated tuition and living costs for international students?
- International students should consult the Bursar's office for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedule and refer to the Graduate Cost of Attendance on the Financial Aid website for estimated living expenses.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in the major is required for admission. Applicants should have completed relevant undergraduate coursework.
TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 80 overall with sub-scores of 18 in Reading, 18 in Listening, 18 in Speaking, and 18 in Writing.
IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.5
The program admits students for the Fall term only. Applicants must submit a personal statement, a writing sample, and three letters of recommendation.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the official Virginia Tech Tuition & Fee Rates for current international tuition. Information can be found via the Bursar's office website.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the official Virginia Tech Tuition & Fee Rates for current domestic tuition. Information can be found via the Bursar's office website.
LivingRefer to the Graduate Cost of Attendance (COA) on the Financial Aid website for estimated living expenses.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students should consult the Bursar's office for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the GPA, English proficiency, and prerequisite academic requirements.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather your academic transcripts, a personal statement, a writing sample, and arrange for three letters of recommendation.
3. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the Virginia Tech Graduate School admissions portal.
4. Submit Test ScoresHave official TOEFL or IELTS scores sent directly to Virginia Tech (Institution Code: 5859).
5. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
6. Monitor Application StatusCheck your application status through the portal and respond to any requests for additional information.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall, with sub-scores of 18 in Reading, 18 in Listening, 18 in Speaking, and 18 in Writing, or a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission to the MS in Human Development program?
+
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in their major. Relevant undergraduate coursework is also required.
How many credit hours are required to complete the MS in Human Development program?
+
The program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a research component or project/report.
What are the application deadlines for the MS in Human Development program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is March 1 for the Regular Master's option and December 1 for the Accelerated Master's option.
What documents are needed for the application?
+
You will need to submit transcripts, a personal statement, a writing sample, and three letters of recommendation.
What are the estimated tuition and living costs for international students?
+
International students should consult the Bursar's office for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedule and refer to the Graduate Cost of Attendance on the Financial Aid website for estimated living expenses.