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The Human Development in Context (HDC) program explores how individuals grow, impact, and are shaped by their environments—including families, communities, schools, and workplaces—throughout their lives. HDC coursework covers theories of personal and familial growth, the interplay of local and global learning processes, as well as cognition, social interactions, and policy. This multidisciplinary curriculum integrates contemporary, practical theories and research from psychology, sociology, intercultural studies, gender studies, economics, and policy science.
HDC students cultivate adaptable approaches to collaborating with others while gaining insights into developmental processes across life stages and diverse settings. All juniors complete a quarter-long practicum internship for academic credit, applying classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios. The program operates year-round.
Graduates pursue careers in various sectors. Common paths include human resources, customer success management, educational design, psychological research, teaching, social services, crisis support, outreach initiatives, and community education programs.
Secondary school record
Northwestern accepts results from both the TOEFL and the IELTS.
There is no minimum score required by Northwestern. Competitive applicants demonstrate a high level of English proficiency and often score in the high range on all four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing) of the TOEFL iBT, or receive IELTS band scores in highest three bands on the overall and individual scores (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking).