Master of Arts in Learning, Developmental and Family Sciences, Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences
School of Education & Human Development
Overview
Degree: MA
Classroom Type: Fully Online Online and on campus classes
Discover how people learn, and how you can help them thrive. Our program brings together educational psychology and the learning sciences to prepare you to design engaging, inclusive and empowering learning experiences in classrooms, schools, communities and beyond. Graduates gain the expertise to make a meaningful impact in diverse professional settings or to continue their academic journey through doctoral studies in education, psychology or human development.
Application​ deadlines
Spring: November 1
Summer: April 30
Fall: June 30
Program Details
Interest Categories: Cultural Diversity & Global Perspectives Education & Counseling Social & Behavioral Sciences
Campus: CU Denver
Situated within the multidisciplinary fields of Learning Sciences and Educational Psychology, this concentration emphasizes the systematic study of psychological, social, and cultural processes in learning and development. It is committed to preparing students to design diverse learning experiences across formal and informal contexts that promote purposeful, agentic, and enjoyable learning and growth, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion.
Students will be prepared to design learning experiences in various formal and informal contexts (e.g., classrooms, schools, centers, communities, and homes), drawing on multiple perspectives (e.g., psychological, sociocultural, critical, design-based, and neuroscience approaches). Within professional and academic networks, students will develop adaptive learning environments that empower participants in diverse educational and community settings, with particular attention to our distinctive urban context.
This concentration offers a comprehensive foundation in Learning Sciences or Educational Psychology, preparing you for applied settings or doctoral studies in fields such as Learning Sciences, Educational Psychology, Psychological Studies, or Education and Human Development. As part of CU Denver’s Personalized Professional Master’s Degree, you can customize your program by designing 12 of the 30 required credits, selecting courses across SEHD to match your needs and interests.
The Learning concentration offers courses such as:
- Human Learning
- Mind, Brain, and Education
- Motivation in Contexts
- Designing Environments for Learning and Development
- Human Development Over the Life Span
- Social Contexts of Adolescence and Schooling
Mode of Study: This degree fits busy schedules; all required core courses are fully online and include either a required weekly Zoom meeting or a threaded online discussion.
Sample Courses
- LDFS 5110 - Human Learning 3 credits
- LDFS 6750 - Designing Environment for Learning and Development 3 credits
- LDFS 6320 - Mind, Brain, and Education 3 credits
- LDFS 6600 - Motivation in Contexts 3 credits
Recommended Completion Time:2 to 3 years
Required Credits for Completion:30
Admission Requirements
Application Deadlines
We practice rolling admission and strive to notify applicants of their admission status within two to three weeks after receiving a complete application.
The following deadlines are firm. Early submissions are encouraged.
- Spring: Nov. 1
- Summer: April 30
- Fall: June 30
Application Requirements
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Resume or CV
- Written statement describing your interest in the program, your strengths and your professional goals
- $50 application fee
International Applicants
Proof of English language proficiency is required. This program does not meet visa requirements for students planning to use either an F-1 or J-1 visa. Questions regarding visa requirements should be directed to [email protected].
Admissions Interview
An interview may be required as part of the admissions process. If required, applicants will be contacted with additional information. For more information, email [email protected] or call 303-315-6300.
Additional Information
Our program was created for individuals who wish to understand the latest research and practices on learning in the interdisciplinary field of educational psychology, psychology, learning sciences or human development while engaging in dynamic interactions with faculty. Many of our graduates pursue doctoral degrees.
Effective fall 2026 the program name will change to Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences. If you are applying prior to fall 2026 you will need to select "Master of Arts in Learning, Developmental and Family Sciences, Learning" in the application system and will have the option to switch to the new program name at a later date.