Why study Developmental Psychology at MC?

The Major in Developmental Psychology is an excellent option for students who are interested in developmental science across the lifespan and in providing services to children, adolescents and adults. Students in this major build a strong foundation in the theory and practice of development, from conception through aging. Various community-based opportunities are embedded throughout the curriculum for students to learn how to provide direct service to individuals at various ages, as well as engage in developmental research and learn about child welfare initiatives and policy. Students also have opportunities for trainings that lead to valuable certifications and credentials.

Developmental Psychology majors often pursue graduate studies within clinical mental health, speech and language intervention, special education, social work, elder care, gerontology, criminal justice, counseling psychology, public health promotion, law, public policy, advocacy and other areas. The Developmental Psychology major offers options in three contemporary tracks of developmental science: Child Trauma and Resilience, Community Psychology, Relationship and Sexual Health, as well as an option for an individualized focus.

The Psychology Department will create a healthy, sustainable environment that fosters student engagement & leadership in an interconnected world through meaningful educational experiences that contribute to the public good.

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Child Trauma and Resilience

Dr. Ariane Schratter, Coordinator

The track in Child Trauma and Resilience represents highly relevant curriculum grappling with the causes and effects of developmental trauma recognized at local, state, national and international levels. The greater the exposure to things such as interpersonal violence, addiction and community violence in early childhood, the greater the risk for later-life problems such as chronic illnesses, poverty, depression and addictive behaviors. With community-wide support, children who have experienced childhood trauma develop resilience to succeed in school, maintain healthy lifestyles and positively contribute to civic life. Students in this track advance their professional preparation and learn how to positively impact populations through coursework, internships and engagement with a wide variety of community organizations.

Community Psychology

Dr. Kathie Shiba, Coordinator

The track in Community Psychology explores how individuals across the lifespan relate to their communities and, reciprocally, how communities affect individuals, integrating social, cultural, economic, political, environmental and international influences. Students in this track learn to promote positive change, health and empowerment at individual and systemic levels. The application of social justice principles, the decreasing of human suffering and the promoting of human values of equality and justice are applied to work in professions such as non-profit leadership, education, counseling, criminal justice and political science. The Community Psychology track includes a focus on cultural competency, mediation, communication and policy issues.

Relationship and Sexual Health

Dr. Karen Beale, Coordinator

The track in Relationship and Sexual Health gets to the heart of how to build healthy relationships and sexual health, as well as how to promote these in the community. Research shows us that when we have relationship and sexual health, we are better students, parents, employees and citizens, and we report a higher quality of life. In this track, students untangle the various constructs at work involved in relationship science and contemporary topics of sexuality using a Bio/Psycho/Social approach and use that information to first enhance their own lives, then focus on infusing key concepts into the community through internships and research projects. Professions where these skills are vital include: education, counseling, public health promotion, public policy, advocacy, non-profit leadership and social work.

Meet a Current Scot

Photo of Ella Reyes

Ella Reyes

Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee

Majoring in Developmental Psychology (Child Trauma and Resilience track) and minoring in Health and Wellness Promotion, Ella is interested in learning “how children are wired and the impact of childhood experiences on lifetime health and wellness.” Although she is not set on her post-MC plans, Ella would like to mentor children who live in urban neighborhoods or experience trauma – possibly incorporating athletics and performance training.

A student assistant for the Athletics department and Bonner Scholar, Ella explored this approach during a summer internship with Emerald Youth Foundation in 2025. “I’ve gotten the opportunity to serve at amazing non-profits like New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center and Gateway to Independence,” she added. “I really enjoy connecting with my professors and local nonprofits to help make the community better as I continually learn more.”

 

Meet a Recent Grad

Photo of alumna Maddie Cunningham who graduated with a degree in Developmental Psychology.

Maddie Cunningham ’23

Currently: Adoption Support and Preservation (ASAP) Family
Therapist with Harmony Family Center in Knoxville/Maryville,
Tennessee

Maddie majored in Developmental Psychology (Child Trauma and Resilience track) and minored in ASL-Deaf Studies, graduating cum laude in May 2023. She then enrolled in the master of science in social work (MSSW) degree program at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and graduated in May 2025.

Now with Harmony, she does in-home visits, conducts individual or family therapy for families who have adopted and helps plan family and day camps throughout the year at the center’s Montvale property.

“Not only were my classes in my undergrad very helpful to tie into my graduate school classes, but through comprehensive exams and senior thesis, I felt that I had a stronger knowledge of developmental psychology than many peers in my program,” she said.

Professor Emerita
Dr. Kathie Shiba
Professor Emerita
Chair, Division of Behavioral Science, Professor of Psychology
Dr. Crystal Colter
Chair, Division of Behavioral Science, Professor of Psychology
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Professor of Psychology
Dr. Karen Beale
Professor of Psychology
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Professor of Psychology
Dr. Ariane Schratter
Professor of Psychology
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Professor of Psychology
Dr. Chad Schrock
Professor of Psychology
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Developmental Psychology

A major in Developmental Psychology can lead to careers that focus on working directly with individuals and groups of all ages, such as social services, health services and other organizations that provide services to children, adolescents and adults. Entry-level jobs include case management, youth work, advocacy work, program/activity director, applied behavior analysis and home care facility work. Students can continue their education through graduate degrees in developmental psychology, clinical mental health, social work, gerontology, counseling, public health promotion, law and public policy.

Child Trauma and Resilience Track

A major in Developmental Psychology with a focus in Child Trauma and Resilience can lead to working with children, families and organizations within various community contexts, including schools and social services. Entry-level jobs include case management, youth services, child advocacy and protection, and program development. The effects of developmental trauma are widely recognized, thereby professionally applicable throughout many fields, including healthcare, law, criminal justice, political science and social justice.

Community Psychology Track

A major in Developmental Psychology with a focus in Community Psychology can lead to working with individuals of all ages as well as organizations and institutions within a variety of community contexts. Entry-level jobs include social services, advocacy work, case management, program development, grass-roots organizing and nonprofit leadership. In addition, the principles of community psychology (which include social justice, respect for diversity, collective wellness and empowerment of people and communities) can be applied to work in many professions (e.g., education, counseling, public policy, criminal justice, political science). Students can pursue graduate education in community psychology, developmental psychology, health psychology, social work, clinical mental health and counseling.

Relationship and Sexual Health Track

A major in Developmental Psychology with a focus in Relationship and Sexual Health can lead to working with individuals, couples, families, schools, organizations and/or corporations. We are all in various kinds of relationships, and sexuality is universal, so this track is widely applicable. Entry-level positions in this field include: case management, advocacy, education, youth leadership, public health promotion, and social work. Students will have the opportunity to engage with various community organizations such as: schools, domestic violence protection and prevention agencies, social services, STI/contraception education and prevention services, sex education programs, and counseling agencies. Because this field teaches skills suitable for many different graduate programs, students can work with an advisor to develop an individualized plan; however, there are clear links for graduate work in community psychology, developmental psychology, counseling, clinical mental health, social work, public health promotion, criminal justice, education and law.

Graduate School Placements

Auburn University
Carson-Newman University
Cumberland University
East Tennessee State University
Lincoln Memorial University
Mercer University
Tennessee Technological University
Tusculum College
University of Alabama, Huntsville Boston University
University of Houston
University of Illinois, Springfield
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Vanderbilt University

Blount County Health Department
Blount County Juvenile Justice Center
Blount County Schools
Boys and Girls Club
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
Family Promise
Harmony Family Center
Haven House
Helen Ross McNabb
Maryville City Schools, Family Resource Center
The Middle Path
New Hope Blount County Children’s Advocacy Center
Planned Parenthood
Second Harvest
Tennessee Department of Children’s Services
TN Kids Belong
U.S. Secret Service

Students successfully completing the program of study will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

  1. Describes how the interaction of mind, body, and the socio-cultural environment affects behavior.
    a. Demonstrates understanding of and respect for the experiences of diverse and socially marginalized groups.
    b. Recognizes the wide variety of behavior that can be considered normal.
    c. Articulates the multiple causes of varied behaviors
    d. Compares and contrasts major psychological systems
    e. Relates behavior to different developmental levels across the life-span
  2. Critically reviews and analyzes psychological research.
    a. Uses and interprets quantitative and qualitative information appropriately
    b. Identifies relationships and synthesizes information
    c. Considers ethical issues
    d. Uses basic psychological terminology
  3. Demonstrates ability to solve problems using the scientific mode of inquiry.
  4. Expresses oneself clearly and persuasively in writing and speaking professionally.
    a. Gives formal presentations
    b. Uses APA style in written communications as appropriate

 

The Major in Developmental Psychology consists of 45 credit hours in psychology and related fields.

Required courses include:

Major and Major-Related Courses

PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 211: Child Development (3 hrs)
PSY 218: Adolescent Development (3 hrs)
PSY 222: Adult Development and Aging (3 hrs)
PSY 289: Psychology of Language and Communication (3 hrs)
PSY 299: Contemporary and Professional Issues in Psychology (2 hrs)
PSY 311: Research Design (3 hrs)
PSY 315: Human Thought and Learning (4 hrs)
PSY XXX: Psychology elective (3 hrs)
PSY 337: Internship in Psychology (0-15 hrs)
PSY 353: Senior Study (3 hrs)

Choice of one of the following tracks that includes 12 additional credit hours in psychology or related fields

For students not seeking a designation of a specific track – these 12 hours can be chosen with an advisor.

Child Trauma and Resilience Track:

PSY 232: Child Trauma and Resilience (3 hrs)
PSY 324: Child Poverty and Inequality (3 hrs)

One of the following:

PSY 331: Abnormal Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 333: Theories and Techniques in Counseling (3 hrs)

One of the following:

PSY 244: Introduction to Neuroscience (3 hrs)
PSY 248: Drugs and Behavior (3 hrs)
CRJ 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 hrs)
CRJ 349: Selected Topics in Criminal Justice (1-4 hrs)

Community Psychology Track:

PSY 224: Cross-Cultural Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 221: Social Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 336: Community Psychology and Social Justice (3 hrs)

One of the following:

SOC 328: Global Feminisms (3 hrs)
SOC 326: Social Movements (3 hrs)
SOC 320: Development and Globalization (3 hrs)
ENV 101: Environmental Issues and Foundations of Sustainability (3 hrs)
SUS 101: Environmental Issues and Foundations of Sustainability (3 hrs)
PHL 207: Contemporary Philosophy (3 hrs)
PHL 249: Selected Topics (1-4 hrs)
Note for PHL 207 and PHL 249: These courses are options for the minor only when focused on the issues of Justice; check the course title in Highland Hub and consult your academic advisor or the course instructor to be sure. 

Relationship and Sexual Health Track:

PSY 227: Intimate Relationships (3 hrs)
PSY 228: Human Sexuality (3 hrs)

Six credit hours from the following courses, with a maximum of 3 credit hours from psychology courses (PSY)

GWS 101: Introduction to Gender and Women's Studies (3 hrs)
PSY 289: Psychology of Language and Communication (3 hrs)
PSY 333: Theories and Techniques in Counseling (3 hrs)
PSY 336: Community Psychology and Social Justice (3 hrs)
SOC 215: Sociology of Marriage and Family (3 hrs)
SOC 328: Global Feminisms (3 hrs)

A double major in Developmental Psychology combined with any of the following is not permitted: Neuroscience, Psychology, Psychology with Counseling Track.

 

The Minor in Developmental Psychology consists of 15 credit hours.

Required courses include:

Minor and Minor-Related Courses

PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 211: Child Development (3 hrs)
PSY 218: Adolescent Development (3 hrs)
PSY 222: Adult Development and Aging (3 hrs)
PSY XXX: Psychology elective (3 hrs)

The Minor in Developmental Psychology is not open to students majoring in Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience, Psychology, or Psychology with a Counseling Track.

 

The Minor in Child Trauma and Resilience consists of 15 credit hours.

Required courses include:

Minor and Minor-Related Courses

PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 232: Child Trauma and Resilience (3 hrs)
PSY 324: Child Poverty and Inequality (3 hrs)

One of the following:

PSY 331: Abnormal Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 333: Theories and Techniques in Counseling (3 hrs)

One of the following:

PSY 244: Introduction to Neuroscience (3 hrs)
PSY 248: Drugs and Behavior (3 hrs)
CRJ 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 hrs)
CRJ 349: Selected Topics in Criminal Justice (1-4 hrs)

Students majoring in Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience, Psychology, or Psychology with a Counseling Track cannot fulfill the minor in Child Trauma and Resilience with courses serving as electives in their major.

 

The Minor in Community Psychology consists of 15 credit hours.

Required courses include:

Minor and Minor-Related Courses

PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 224: Cross-Cultural Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 221: Social Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 336: Community Psychology and Social Justice (3 hrs)

One of the following:

SOC 328: Global Feminisms (3 hrs)
SOC 326: Social Movements (3 hrs)
SOC 320: Development and Globalization (3 hrs)
ENV 101: Environmental Issues and Foundations of Sustainability (3 hrs)
SUS 101: Environmental Issues and Foundations of Sustainability (3 hrs)
PHL 207: Contemporary Philosophy (3 hrs)
PHL 249: Selected Topics (1-4 hrs)

Note for PHL 207 and PHL 249: These courses are options for the minor only when focused on the issues of Justice; check the course title in Highland Hub and consult your academic advisor or the course instructor to be sure.

Students who major in Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience, Psychology, or Psychology with a Counseling Track cannot fulfill the Community Psychology minor with courses serving as electives in their major.

 

The Minor in Relationship and Sexual Health consists of 15 credit hours.

Required courses include:

Minor and Minor-Related Courses

PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 hrs)
PSY 227: Intimate Relationships (3 hrs)
PSY 228: Human Sexuality (3 hrs)

Six credit hours from the following courses, with a maximum of 3 credit hours from psychology courses (PSY):

GWS 101: Introduction to Gender and Women's Studies (3 hrs)
PSY 289: Psychology of Language and Communication (3 hrs)
PSY 333: Theories and Techniques in Counseling (3 hrs)
PSY 336: Community Psychology and Social Justice (3 hrs)
SOC 215: Sociology of Marriage and Family (3 hrs)
SOC 328: Global Feminisms (3 hrs)

Students who major in Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience, Psychology, or Psychology with a Counseling Track cannot fulfill the Relationship and Sexual Health minor with courses serving as electives in their major.

In addition to required courses for majors and minors, Maryville College students take classes in the Maryville Curriculum, a core program of general education. Consisting of 51 credit hours, the Maryville Curriculum ensures that students see their major in a wider context and develop the basic communication, quantitative, and critical thinking skills that are needed for success in college and career.

You may also be interested in:

Counseling

Neuroscience

Psychology
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