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Developmental Psychology

Area Chair: Pamela Davis-Kean, Professor of Psychology, Research Professor at the Institute for Social Research Associate Director of the Michigan Institute for Data Science

2023 Developmental Psychology Area

The program in Developmental Psychology is designed to prepare skilled, creative developmental psychologists who are sensitive to issues of practical significance and trained to conduct and apply sound, meaningful social science research. An important strength of our program is the diversity of research skills, perspectives, and findings we bring to bear on a subject of central human concerns.

The program in Developmental Psychology is highly respected both nationally and internationally and covers all portions of the life-span from infancy to late life. Nineteen Core faculty, and other affiliated faculty, offer collaborative research training in social, cognitive, linguistic and brain development. Special strengths of the program include opportunities for training in:

  • Basic and applied research
    longitudinal methods
  • Developmental neuroscience
  • Development in the context of schools
  • Family and community influences on the life course
  • Including research with both normal and at-risk populations

The program has a strong tradition in interdisciplinary research and cross-cultural studies, and maintains active ties with outstanding programs around the world.

The Developmental Area also has a National Institute of Child Health and Human Development T32 Training Grant in Developmental Psychology.  The Training Grant offers graduate and postdoctoral fellowships. Students are trained in interdisciplinary developmental science that brings together the fields of social context and neuroscience.

To Apply to the Developmental Psychology Program

The Department Psychology admits students only once each year for the fall term. To apply, you must complete the official online Rackham Graduate Application form. When completing this form you will have the opportunity to upload your Personal Statement, Statement of Purpose, and transcripts. You will also be prompted to register your recommenders, so that they will be able to submit their letters of recommendation online. All applicants who are applying to the Psychology Graduate Program should review the Psychology Department Graduate Application Checklist. Please do not send any hard copy materials to the Psychology Department.

For specific questions about the graduate program in Developmental Psychology, contact the Program Chair: Pamela Davis-Kean

For matriculation in Fall 2024, the deadline for submission of your application is December 1, 2023. Recruitment weekend will be held February 16-17, 2023. All applicants are notified of admission decisions by April 1, 2024 or earlier.