Developmental Science Ph.D.

Developmental science is an interdisciplinary field that studies human development across the lifespan in various family, social and cultural contexts. NDSU’s program has exciting, relevant and flexible opportunities for study and research to help you reach your goals.

At NDSU, you’ll be surrounded by active scholars with cutting-edge research programs in a highly supportive environment designed to help develop your interests and skills in research, teaching, and outreach. Faculty genuinely care about your welfare and are dedicated to helping you become the best professional you can be.

You may enter the program directly after earning a bachelor’s degree, in which case you will earn a master’s degree along the way to completing your doctoral degree. If you already have a relevant master’s degree and have completed a research-based thesis, you also are eligible for the program. Students entering with a bachelor's degree and enrolling full time can expect to complete the program in 5 years. Students entering with a master's degree and enrolling full time should be able to finish the program in 3 years.

2025 Developmental Science Graduate Student Manual

For More Information contact:
Dr. Heather Fuller, Program Coordinator, heather.fuller@ndsu.edu, 701-231-5621

Gerontology Doctorate Dual-degree Option

At NDSU, you can combine studies in developmental science with a Doctor of Philosophy dual-major option in gerontology. The mission of the option is to promote aging-related research and education that uses a discipline-based perspective that serves to enhance the length and quality of life. It represents an intellectually exciting field of study in which students can integrate information from diverse fields of study. Learn more on the Gerontology Dual Major page.