Featured programs

Ph.D. in developmental psychology 

Developmental science track 

Choose to conduct research in areas including cognitive development, language, learning, executive function, social development, or developmental psychobiology and neuroscience. You also can choose to combine your interests and work alongside multiple ICD faculty members to define a research area that's unique to you. 

Developmental psychopathology and clinical science track

As a student in the clinical science track, you'll complete coursework in clinical psychology, practicums, and a year-long internship. You'll also receive APA-accredited clinical training through the psychology doctoral program.

Online M.A. in applied child and adolescent development

Child life track

Prepare to be a child life specialist, a trained professional who helps children cope with the stress and uncertainty of illness, injury, disability, and hospitalization.

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Individualized studies track

Personalize your degree by selecting elective courses that you can apply to a career field that interests you.

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Infant and early childhood mental health track

Prepare for a career that incorporates early childhood mental health practice or policy. If you're already in the field, gain the skills you need to advance your career. Please note that this program does not prepare students to become licensed clinical professionals.

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About

Since 1925, the Institute of Child Development has conducted research, training, and outreach that has guided policymakers, educators, practitioners, and parents across Minnesota and the nation as they cultivate the next generation of citizens.

The Institute has consistently ranked as the #1 developmental psychology program in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and is internationally recognized for the quality of its faculty and their portfolios of research.

Our mission

We strive to be a catalyst for improving lives beginning in childhood. Our mission is to:

• advance knowledge about human development through research and scholarly activities; 
• promote the optimal development of all children and youth;
• prepare students to pursue careers in science- and early education-related fields; and
• collaborate with community partners to implement science that improves lives. 
  

Our academic and research programs work in unison to support the University of Minnesota’s land grant mission of research and discovery, teaching and learning, and outreach and public service.