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PhD in Developmental Psychology Online

Gain advanced skills to understand and address 21st-century issues impacting human growth and development.

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PhD in Developmental Psychology Online

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Current Step 1: About You
  • Step 2: Contact Information
""
A PROGRAM OF CHOICE

Pursue your degree with the confidence of knowing that Walden ranks No. 1 in granting research doctoral degrees in health sciences, psychology, business, and other non-science and engineering degrees.

Program Details

Broaden Your Expertise

Our PhD in developmental psychology blends relevant theories with practical skills, equipping you to impact the field of developmental psychology.

 

CurriculumRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework60 quarter credits $630 per quarter hour for coursework credits$37,800^
Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project 20–125 quarter credits$630 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$12,600–$78,750*
Program Fee $180 per quarter$1,980–$5,760*
Residency FeeFour Residencies$1,420 each (virtual) 
$1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional)
$5,680–$6,080
Estimated Range:  2.75-Year8-Year
   $58,060$128,390 *+
   (assuming completion in a 2.75-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.

Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.

^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.

Based on a 2.75-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.

*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.

+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.

CurriculumRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework90 quarter credits $630 per quarter hour for coursework credits$56,700^
Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project 20–115 quarter credits$630 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$12,600–$72,450*
Program Fee $180 per quarter$2,340–$5,760*
Residency FeeFour Residencies$1,420 each (virtual)
$1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional)
$5,680–$6,080
Estimated Range:  3.25-Year8-Year
   $77,320$140,990*+
   (assuming completion in a 3.25-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.

Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.

^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.

Based on a 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.

*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.

+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.

Choose Your Specialization

Program Outcomes

Solidify Your Professional Identity

Learn to apply your knowledge of human behavior, informed by foundational and original research, to promote positive social change in the lives of individuals, families, and communities in a variety of settings.

 

1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)

No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the PhD in Developmental Psychology program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentile.

Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of Walden’s PhD in Developmental Psychology program, you will be prepared to:

Synthesize developmental psychology theory and research in the physical, cognitive, emotional, health, social, and cultural aspects of human life span development.

Evaluate how key issues and seminal works within the field apply to human development across the life span—including physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and cultural aspects.

Produce independent scholarly research utilizing basic and advanced research methods.

Apply theory and research to the practice of developmental psychology.

Demonstrate the ability to apply results of evidence-based developmental psychology research in various institutions and organizations concerned with issues impacting human development.

Describe experiences and perspectives of diverse populations (including, but not limited to, race, culture, socioeconomics, age, gender, sexual orientation, and disability) from a developmental psychology perspective.

Apply relevant ethical codes (e.g., APA) in developmental psychology research, practice, and professional settings.

Discuss how social and political issues, policies, and events impact the field of developmental psychology.

Engage in professional activities related to developmental psychology that promote positive social change.

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Meet Your Academic Team

Below are some of the distinguished faculty members who bring diverse industry expertise and a passion for teaching to the Walden community.

 

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PhD in Developmental Psychology FAQ

How do you choose the best online university for your PhD in Developmental Psychology?

When it comes to finding the best online academic institution, reputation is key. Walden University has been leading adult learning and developing distance education programs for more than 50 years. Accreditation is an important factor to consider as well. Accreditation helps assure prospective students that the university meets and maintains accepted standards set forth by an independent accrediting body recognized by the Department of Education. Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Lastly, working professionals need to be supported in their journey, from enrollment through graduation, so that they can be successful. Walden University provides support in the areas of academia, technology, career planning and development, research, scholarly writing, and more.

Should you study developmental psychology online or on campus?

The decision to study on campus or online is a personal one that often comes down to convenience. Since online learning doesn’t require traveling to class, many working professionals prefer online graduate programs so they can better balance work and family obligations. Plus, online doctoral programs feature the hallmarks of traditional programs, including rigorous coursework, class discussions (albeit asynchronous), a wide range of specializations, writing assessments, dissertations, and more. Walden University’s online developmental psychology PhD program features dedicated support teams, and leading faculty experts.

What will you study in a developmental psychology PhD program?

From psychopathology to the developmental needs of an aging population, the curriculum in a developmental psychology doctoral degree program can strengthen your understanding of the interaction between the cognitive, physical, emotional, social, health, and cultural aspects of development. A general curriculum provides a broad foundation in developmental psychology and how you can apply its principles across the human lifespan. Some programs, such as the one offered by Walden University, also allow you to choose from various specializations so you can focus your studies on topics you’re most passionate about. Specializations include Administration and Leadership, Child and Adolescent Development, Health and Human Development, International Perspectives, Research, and Teaching, as well as a Self-Designed specialization.

What is an academic residency, and why is it important to my PhD in Developmental Psychology online program?

Designed to prepare you for the doctoral journey, academic residencies are face-to-face or virtual learning experiences that align with your online coursework to enhance your skill development, scholarship, and professional practice. Required for most PhD programs—including Walden’s PhD in Developmental Psychology online—residencies also provide students with the opportunity to collaborate and network with other students, staff, and faculty members.

What is the best way to choose a PhD in Developmental Psychology specialization?

Walden’s PhD in Developmental Psychology program offers a number of specializations. Here are some things to consider when deciding how to focus your studies:

  • Give thought to your aspirations, passions, and career goals, and look for a specialization that aligns with them.
  • Think about research topics you might wish to consider for your doctoral study. The information you gain in your specialization courses can be leveraged as you complete your research.
  • Keep in mind that, if you don’t find the perfect fit for your choice of specialization, Walden’s PhD in Developmental Psychology options also include a Self-Designed specialization that allows you to choose a variety of courses from different focus areas.