Learning, Developmental and Family Sciences
Master of Arts in Learning, Developmental and Family Sciences, Learning
School of Education & Human Development
Overview
Degree: MA
Classroom Type: Online and on campus classes
Created for individuals who wish to delve into the latest research and practices on learners' cognition, motivation, engagement, growth, and development in various formal and informal learning contexts.
Application​ deadlines
Rolling Admission
Program Details
Interest Categories: Cultural Diversity & Global Perspectives Education & Counseling Social & Behavioral Sciences
Campus: CU Denver
Effective fall 2026 the program name will change to Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences.
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.
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
Sample Courses
- LDFS 5110 - Human Learning 3 credits
- LDFS 6100 - Advanced Child Growth and Development 3 credits
- LDFS 6200 - Human Development Over the Life Span 3 credits
- LDFS 6750 - Designing Environment for Learning and Development 3 credits
Recommended Completion Time:2 to 3 years
Required Credits for Completion:30
Admission Requirements
Application Deadlines
We practice "rolling admission" and after your application is complete, we strive to notify you of your admission status in no more than two to three weeks.
The following deadlines are firm, early submissions are encouraged.
Fall Semester: June 30
Spring Semester: November 1
Summer Semester: April 30
Application Requirements
- 2 recommendation letters
- Official Transcripts from all institutions attended
- If applying for an endorsement, proof of teaching license or special services license is required
- Resume/CV
- Written Statement: Describe your interest in the program, your special strengths, and the goals you hope to achieve through your work in the program
- $50.00 application fee
- International Applicants only: Proof of English Language Proficiency (International applicants should review the following information regarding English language proficiency)
Admissions Interview: An interview may be required as part of the admissions process. If so, applicants will be contacted with more details.
For more information, email education@ucdenver.edu 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.