The M.S.Ed. in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development (ISHD) program examines the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of human development within the context of culture and social policy. The ISHD master's program offers students the opportunity to create an individualized program of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives of human development across the lifespan in one of the following career interests: traditional academic research, youth programming and services, urban and ethnic studies, adult development and learning, international programming (e.g., work with NGOs), foundation administration, and program development. The program is designed for pre-professional training and to prepare students to advance within their careers by gaining a better understanding of human development issues. The M.S.Ed. in ISHD also gives students a solid foundation for applying to doctoral programs in human development and related fields.
Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development at University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania offers the Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Philadelphia, United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 2 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for interdisciplinary studies in human development and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on May 22, 2027.
About Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development at University of Pennsylvania
Entry Requirements
Our admission decisions are made prior to the announcement of results for many national examinations (such as the A Levels or French Baccalaureate), but applicants are expected to be enrolled in programs that prepare them for these examinations. If you are enrolled in a program that will not release external examination results prior to our application deadlines, you must request that your school send us predictions of external examination results along with your grades.
Where national examinations are required for admission to a pre-university program (such as the IGCSE or the SPM), you should have received high marks on these examinations and should present certified copies of the results with your Penn application.
Students in our diverse global community have a wide range of passions, perspectives, and talents. Beyond academics, we would like to learn about your non-scholarly interests, extracurricular activities, and community service (though we recognize that patterns for non-academic involvement vary from country to country).
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 7
- TOEFLMin 100
Tuition and Fee Information for Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development at University of Pennsylvania
How to Apply for Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development at University of Pennsylvania
Offline Recommendation
Penn strongly prefers that recommenders submit letters of recommendation online through the admissions system. If, however, your recommender is unable to submit an online recommendation, please follow these instructions:
1) Select the “Recommendation Form PDF Download” and download the form.
2) Complete the first section. Be sure to include the address of the appropriate admissions office — refer to the "Contact Graduate Admissions" list below.
3) Print out the form and provide it to your recommender.
Please note:
- If you are applying to a program in Nursing, print out and provide your recommender with these special instructions for completing your letter of recommendation.
- If you are applying to a program in the School of Social Policy & Practice, print out and provide your recommender with these special instructions for completing your letter of recommendation.
4) Your recommender should send the form directly to the admissions office you designate, along with the letter of recommendation.
United States of America, Philadelphia