The Human Development and Learning (HDL) major in UIC's Department of Educational Psychology helps students to become experts in how humans grow and improve their own well-being, with opportunities to study how people learn at many different age levels and in diverse environments.
Whether you are interested in working with young children, adolescents, or adults, the BA in Human Development and Learning will prepare you to guide and nurture people's growth and education.
Customize your studies in HDL Heading link
With the help of our faculty and advisors, students customize the HDL major to their professional and personal goals. HDL graduates frequently work in learning environments outside of traditional schools and classrooms, such as nonprofits, health centers, day care centers, youth development programs, universities, museums, community organizations, and more. Some students focus their studies around a future career like social work, child care, social justice, and/or public health. Others continue their education in graduate programs.
Focus areas: Every HDL student chooses at least one focus area to guide their course of study. Focus areas can lead to credentials, a university minor (or a double major), and/or prepare students for specific careers. Learn more on our focus areas and credentials page.
Tiffany Besana Heading link
Majoring in HDL was the best academic decision I’ve made! HDL is a great program for people who want to work with people because we explore how humans function cognitively and socioemotionally in diverse contexts from personable professors who are experts in their field and who genuinely care about our own learning and development as students.
| BA HDL, Class of 2019
Melvin Woolfolk Heading link
The HDL program has honed many of my abilities, making me a better student, leader, researcher, and overall human being. Everyone you meet is a resource for you, and you are a resource for everyone you meet!
| BA HDL, Class of 2019
Watch an info session for HDL admitted students Heading link
Hosted by Dr. Kathy Sheridan and HDL student advisor Claríbel Gomez on April 25, 2020 for admitted HDL students.