January 1 Students in the Developmental Program receive graduate training in the major areas of development including social development, cognitive development, language development, and social-cognitive development. Students achieve expertise in a particular substantive domain within developmental psychology while acquiring broad exposure to related topics. In all areas, students learn the central theoretical issues that drive inquiry and the research methods needed to address them. The goal of the program is to train students to become productive scholars and scientists, particularly in academic settings.
Training combines continuous laboratory and research experience with appropriate coursework.
A student works closely with a research advisor and with a three-person advising committee who help the student shape and meet his or her own training goals. Flexibility in the student's training, including course selection, is a key concept in the program. There are several important resources for students outside the program as well. This is especially relevant for students with applied or interdisciplinary interests. The LRDC, OCD, and the Department of Psychology sponsor many colloquia, lectures, informal talks, and occasional research conferences.