Master's Program

The Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development offers a Master of Arts in Child Study and Human Development. Our master's program is committed to training our students to become scholars and practitioners who want to make a difference in the lives of children, adolescents and their families. Students develop intellectual tools and practical skills, and have the opportunity to have an impact in different contexts such as community-based programs, after-school settings, schools, hospitals, homes, new technologies and media. Despite the many challenges faced in the 21st century, our program is characterized by a strength-based approach to promote positive attributes and behaviors in children and adolescents so that they can thrive. The program offers concentrations of study such as Child Development, Health and Psychology or 21st Century Literacies: Media & Technology. Alternatively, a student may develop an individualized plan of study (IPS) together with the academic advisor.
The MA program offers the option to follow one of two tracks:
- M.A. in Child Study and Human Development – Applied Track
- M.A. in Child Study and Human Development – Thesis Track
Graduate Student Advising
Upon matriculation, graduate students are assigned a faculty advisor who provides advice about registration for courses and program requirements. The interaction between the graduate student and a faculty member is one of the most significant aspects of a graduate student's time at Tufts.