Welcome to the Developmental & Learning Sciences specialization in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln!
The Developmental a& Learning Sciences (DLS) Program represents the theoretical core of the Department of Educational Psychology. Other programs focus on Methodology (QQPM) or preparation for specific professional roles (Counseling Psychology & School Psychology). Although virtually all areas of psychological theory and research are potentially relevant to education, the DLS program sees the psychological study of cognition, learning, and development as particularly crucial. Students in DLS gain a rich understanding of and conduct research in: cognition, learning and instruction, social and emotional development & well-being, and educational neuroscience. Our faculty and students conduct innovative and collaborative research and benefit from many local and university partnerships, including those with school districts, the Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior, the Nebraska Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families, and Schools, and the Bullying Research Network.
Academic pathways in Developmental & Learning Sciences are flexible and interdisciplinary in that students are able to customize their academic focus and research experiences to fit their educational and career goals. Students completing their Educational Psychology degree in our program are well-prepared with the theoretical knowledge and qualitative and quantitative research skills to work in any setting that supports learning and development. Most graduate students are funded through teaching or research assistantships and later secure positions in university settings, at research and consulting groups, or at state and federal government agencies.
DLS Courses Support Diversity and Inclusion
DLS is proud to support diversity and inclusion work in the Department of Educational Psychology. Many of our courses include important content that helps students to understand the role of race, culture and diversity in learning and in cognitive and social development. We cover a broad range of topics that explore ethnic identity development, empathy/compassion, bias and stereotype formation and effects, the negative impacts of racism and stereotype threat, as well as many other related issues and concepts. The link below presents a more detailed table of the DLS courses that cover topics related to diversity and inclusion that will help you plan your program of courses.
Deadlines
Developmental & Learning Sciences applications are considered three times a year:
- January 15th (for starting the following Fall)
- October 1st (for starting the following Spring)
Fellowships and assistantships are only awarded for incoming Fall students.
DLS Director
Dr. Mary Zeleny
Educational Psychology
220 TEAC
mgzeleny@unl.edu
