Course Descriptions

5514: Research Methods

In this course you will learn fundamental statistical concepts and procedures that are typically used in the social and behavioral sciences. These concepts and procedures will facilitate the work you accomplish in your Human Development courses dealing with grant development, program planning, and evaluation.

5614: Human Development Theory: Literature and Applications

Introduction to major theories of human development and application of these theories to understanding and improving the well being of children, adults, couples, and families within complex social systems. (3H, 3C)

In this course you will be introduced to a wide range of theories in human development. In-depth understanding of the major theories and application of these theories to human development issues and problems will be emphasized. You will learn about the specific ways that theory can help you understand and improve human well being. You will apply theories to children, adults, couples, families, and larger social systems. Based on your interests, you will choose a topic for conducting a literature review and analyze an issue from various theoretical perspectives.

5624: Professional Practices in Human Development

In this course you will focus on interdisciplinary theoretical approaches to examine issues of management, resource development, needs assessment, and evaluation of human service delivery to individuals and families with diverse backgrounds and needs. Delivery of services to individuals and families across the life span is emphasized. Multiple research methods will be used to complete an action plan that reflects personal and professional goals toward program development.

5634: Legislation and Policy in Human Development

In this course you will experience a context to consider in-depth connections between government, policy, and individuals and families throughout the life course. Learning through individual study, analysis, and reflection is emphasized. Specifically, you will explore substantive and theoretical issues that relate to the development and implementation of policies that affect individuals and families. You will construct a policy analysis based on an issue of concern to you and write a position paper on a selected topic.

5644: Program Planning and Evaluation in Human Development

In this course you will learn how to plan, monitor, and evaluate programs and services. You will construct an intervention program. You will evaluate community organizations and services by examining various data sources and using analytic methods. You will also apply strategies to develop and conduct program evaluations.

5654: Grant Development and Administration in Human Development

In this course you will get an overview of the methods and procedures you can use to develop grant proposals. You will learn basic grant writing skills, including how to find funding sources and how to prepare a fundable grant proposal. You will develop and submit your own proposal to an agency or organization pertinent to your concentration interest. You will have the opportunity to review grant proposals and explore how to administer grant-funded projects.

5664: Internship in Human Development

The internship consists of a minimum 400 hours of work at an approved site, approximately 3-4 months full-time. In most cases, you will take this course after completing all course requirements. You can negotiate your own internship site or apply to sites through the HD Blacksburg: Master’s Internship Consortium Sites (MICS). Typically, internships will be located in the New River Valley, Roanoke, Richmond, or Washington DC. Internship sites must be approved by Human Development Master's Degree faculty committee members. As part of this course, you will prepare your final presentation through a series of stages. You'll receive guidance and feedback at each stage, including outline, slide preparation, text of presentation, and addressing audience questions. The course includes an on-campus one day workshop on the day prior to the final presentation. The final presentation usually occurs on the 20th day of the fall semester following the cohort year.