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Associate of Arts

Associate of Science

Bachelor's of Arts

Bachelor's of Science

Human Development

At Empire State University, our Human Development programs empower you to understand how people grow, learn, and change throughout life.

Whether you're just starting with an associate degree or pursuing a bachelor's in human development, you’ll explore the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of individuals from childhood through later life. With flexible, fully online options, you can tailor your studies to your career goals, whether that's in counseling, education, health care, or nonprofit work. SUNY Empire’s individualized approach means your education fits your life.

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Program Overview

Career Outcomes

Next Steps

Human Development

Study how humans grow and change so you can make a real difference in your community and career.

Format

100% Online

Tuition

$295 / credit

Credits

124

64 for associate, 124 for bachelor’s

Next term starts

Summer 2026

Ready to Apply?

The deadline for the Summer 2026 term is April 10. How to Apply

Understand development across the lifespan
Analyze cognitive and emotional growth
Explore biological and cultural influences
Apply ethical and research-based practices

For comprehensive information about our courses, please visit our course catalog.

From social services to education and beyond, SUNY Empire prepares you for careers where people matter most. Possible careers include:

Developmental psychologist
School counselor
Social worker
Health care coordinator
Nonprofit program specialist

Career Services

Lamira N. at commencement in New York City.

I recently started working with autistic children as a behavioral health technician, and I figured this degree would help me with my career. I was able to have my flexible schedule and work online as well. So I’m definitely glad I chose SUNY Empire.

Lamira N.

Human Development, ‘25

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Take the First Step to a Degree in Human Development

We're here to support you every step of the way, making your journey to a degree in human development as smooth as possible. Our dedicated advisors provide the guidance and information you need to make confident choices and move closer to your goals.

Request Info

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Check for Prior Learning Credits

Put your past experience toward your degree. Use transfer credits, work experience, or life skills to get a head start, save money, and earn your degree faster.

How To Get Credits

Normal Program Length

Your Prior Learning

Your Prior Learning

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Apply for Your Online Degree in Human Development

Make sure you have all the admissions requirements and complete your application to be ready for our next term!

Next start term

Summer 2026

Deadline to apply

April 10

Start Your Degree

as soon as May 11, 2026.

All Faculty

Alexandra Rush

Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology and Human Development

Alexandra Rush holds a Ph.D. in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State University. She is a developmental scientist who researches how family, social, and individual factors support resilience and purpose through adversity. She enjoys mentoring students and aims to inspire a love of learning and a sense of purpose.

Gayle S Stever

Professor, Psychology and Human Development

Gayle Stever holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from Arizona State University. Her research centers on media psychology, especially parasocial relationships. Gayle teaches courses such as Attachment Across the Lifespan and Narrative Psychology. She is currently writing Understanding Parasocial Relationships and studying the role of social media in shaping these experiences.

Interested in Human Development?

Learn more and get started.

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