Developmental Psychology Concentration in Psychology
A developmental psychology concentration focuses on how people grow, change, and adapt across the lifespan. It typically builds on the psychology program core and adds courses in child development, aging, cognitive development, and research methods specific to developmental studies.
Quick Answers
What is a developmental psychology concentration in psychology?
A developmental psychology concentration is a focused set of courses within a psychology program that emphasizes physical, cognitive, and social development from infancy through older adulthood.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover lifespan development, child and adolescent psychology, aging, and developmental research methods.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Psychology Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Human growth and development across the lifespan
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s and master’s level
- Career alignment: Educational and Career Counselor ($65,140 median, BLS May 2024)
- Growth outlook: 3.5% projected growth through 2034 with 31,000 annual openings (BLS)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Psychology Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Lifespan Development | Physical, cognitive, and social changes across the full lifespan |
| Child & Adolescent Psychology | Developmental milestones, behavioral patterns, and intervention strategies |
| Psychology of Aging | Cognitive decline, adaptation, and quality of life in older adults |
| Cognitive Development | How thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities develop |
| Developmental Research Methods | Longitudinal and cross-sectional study design for developmental questions |
| Applied Developmental Psychology | Practical applications in education, policy, and family services |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How psychology concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology | Assessment, diagnosis, treatment | Clinical & Counseling Psychologist | $95,830 |
| Counseling Psychology | Therapeutic support, wellness | Marriage & Family Therapist | $63,780 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Memory, perception, cognition | School Psychologist | $86,930 |
| Developmental Psychology | Lifespan development | Educational & Career Counselor | $65,140 |
| Industrial-Organizational | Workplace behavior, HR | I-O Psychologist | $109,840 |
| Social Psychology | Group behavior, social influence | Mental Health Counselor | $59,190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.