Who We Are
The Human Development and School Services (HDSS) department provides students with the opportunity to learn how to develop a healthy knowledge across lifespans, and how to be able to apply in schools and other related settings. HDSS students acquire practical knowledge, a skill set, and a flexible way of thinking. They also obtain an understanding of how to work with colleagues and students through the exploration of human development in social and school environments.
Students who take courses in the HDSS department explore how human development is influenced by family, schools, community, and the workplace. HDSS courses help students focus individual development and family, group, and organizational dynamics. Our current programs draw on best practices and evidenced-based research in the fields of school psychology, special education, and early childhood.
The knowledge students obtain through courses in the HDSS department is highly rewarding and valuable in itself. This knowledge greatly enhances the ability of students to make a meaningful difference in children's lives. Students in our HDSS master's programs work closely with extraordinary faculty comprised of prominent voices in early childhood, school psychology, and special education. Students also have the opportunity to complete internships and research enabling them to integrate theory into practice. The goal of faculty in the HDSS department is to support educational practitioners as they strive to become more effective teachers, leaders, research, and advocates.
Accreditation
The UTRGV Educator Preparation Program is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) meeting rigorous standards and processes for educator preparation through quality assurance and continuous improvement.