Developmental Science for Health Professions Option
Because patients are people too. This option is for students wanting to combine a human development background with advanced training or graduate study in health and medical fields.
In addition to completing prerequisite course work for advanced study in health fields, including biology and chemistry, you will build knowledge and competencies in life span human development, health disparities, communication, relationships, ethics, research methods, and intervention science, which are essential for patient-centered care.
Prepare for advanced training
Students in the Developmental Science for Health Professions option combine a strong HDFS background with the necessary pre-requisites to go on to advanced training in the health professions of their choice.
- Occupational therapy
- Nursing
- Medical or PA school
Option requirements
In addition to the core degree requirements, students in the Developmental Science for Health Professions option complete the following requirements. For a full list of requirements, see the Penn State Bulletin.
Why HDFS as preparation for medical degrees?
The American Association of Medical Colleges lists human development and family studies skills as essential competencies for pre-med students, including empathy, compassion, ethics, interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and understanding others.