Developmental Studies

Developmental Studies (DS) is a distinct field that draws on the integration of the perspectives and methods of many disciplines to provide a coherent analysis of the biological, environmental, and social factors that influence both individual and group development. As such, it has specific relevance to a growing number of occupations and professions, notably child care, gerontology, and family studies.

The Developmental Studies Program is an interdisciplinary major composed of offerings from a variety of Departments and programs. The DS program includes courses from Anthropology, Biology, Business and Administration, Conflict Resolution Studies, Education, English, Kinesiology and Applied Health, Politics, Psychology, Sociology, and Statistics.

Developmental Studies is well known for

• early learning research and publications;
• developing leaders and managers in inclusive early-childhood care and education;
• an established degree program in early childhood management and leadership, that is CCEPAC approved;
• its unique articulation program with Red River College and Université de Saint-Boniface;
• creating new advancement opportunities for early-childhood care and education professionals;
• promoting broad understanding of the crucial role played by quality early-childhood care and education programs in human development, family stability, and community well being; and
• Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for adult learners.

The University of Winnipeg builds the leadership capacity of early-care and education leaders by drawing upon the expertise of the interdisciplinary faculty on staff at the University of Winnipeg and the resources of leaders in the wider childcare community. We prepare leaders who will advance the quality and standing of early care and education—regionally, provincially and even nationally.