About Walden University
Walden University is an online institution that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs for a diverse and driven student community. Founded in 1970, Walden has been expanding access to higher education by creating opportunities for adult learners to pursue advanced degrees. Walden is also guided by a mission of positive social change and dedicated to helping passionate people transform their own lives and the lives of others.
The online learning model is designed to fit the needs of busy, working professionals, and specialized student support is provided from the undergraduate to doctoral levels. Through relevant programs with innovative learning experiences, students grow as scholar-practitioners equipped with the skills and knowledge to explore careers in a range of fields.
Walden offers more than 100 online degree and certificate programs in areas including education, nursing, social work, psychology, and criminal justice. A number of programs offer a choice of formats geared to your learning style. A traditional course-based format is for those interested in an instructor-led approach and learning on a fixed schedule, while Tempo Learning®, a competency-based format, is for those who prefer a flexible learning experience with no weekly deadlines and the ability to set their own pace.
Walden University online learning:
- Multiple start dates
- Streamlined application process
- Undergraduate tutoring
- 24/7 technical support
- Expert faculty
- Virtual field experience
Accreditation & Licensing
Walden University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Type:
4-year, Private for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 14,222 ; Graduate: 58,633Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 100% ; Graduate: 100%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$42,810Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$20,834Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
85%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$3,672Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Walden University is located in Minnesota
Minnesota at a Glance:

Top Majors in Minnesota:
Top Incentives in Minnesota:
- Minnesota State Grant: Up to $12,000 annually
Top Career Pathways in Minnesota:
- Entry Level: Healthcare Analyst ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Innovation Manager ($95,000)
- Senior Level: Healthcare Director ($150,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CPHIMS
Online Programs offered by Walden University
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All Programs
Business
Strengthen your business acumen with a degree from an ACBSP-accredited BS in Business Administration program from Walden. Develop the knowledge and skills to drive growth and innovation while effecting positive social change. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning® format, you’ll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no weekly deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed. In the optional AIM track, you will earn up to 25 master’s-level credits by taking graduate-level courses as an undergraduate, giving you a head start on your Walden master’s program.
No matter where life takes you, your success often depends on being able to communicate effectively. Walden’s BS in Communication program focuses on the practical tools you need to make your voice heard and your message understood. You’ll build a strong communication foundation that can enhance your personal and professional growth. You can apply these principles to an optional concentration that reflects your specific area of interest. An online communication degree prepares students to write, share, and present ideas and messaging impactfully to their audience.
Powerful leaders don’t just help their organizations succeed; they guide business toward a future that works for all of us. Walden’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program prepares you to be a socially minded, high-impact change agent in the business setting. You’ll build the confidence to not only take a seat at the table but also to stand up for what’s right. Our MBA program is designed around you, giving you access to the people, tools, and resources you need to help you stay on track and achieve your goals. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning® format, you’ll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no weekly deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed. Our One-Year Fast-Track option allows you to double up on courses and complete your MBA in one year, earning your degree in half the time of a traditional MBA program.
In this specialization, you’ll explore key practices and strategies for developing, managing, recruiting, and leading diverse talent. Build the organizational knowledge and leadership skills needed to advise and advance in this field—including soft skills like emotional intelligence and conflict resolution. Explore practical approaches for managing talent, measuring employee performance, and leading high-functioning teams.
The MBA Self-Designed specialization offers the freedom and flexibility to tailor your program to complement your professional goals. Select up to nine elective credits and focus your learning on a specific area that interests you. Apply what you’ve learned to make a positive, sustainable difference in your organization and community.
Computer Science & IT
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
Enhance your skills and credentials while continuing to protect and serve your community with our BS in Criminal Justice program.
A bachelor’s in criminal justice prepares professionals with the skills needed for entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, investigation, security, and more.
Public safety is a pressing concern, and homeland security policymakers are faced with tough decisions every day. This specialization provides a foundation for evaluating and creating protective measures and policies that do not compromise individual rights and freedoms. Explore the collaborative relationships among public security agencies. The coursework also focuses on using the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and understanding the complexity of homeland security issues.
Gain skills and knowledge that are essential to operating effectively in regions seeking to develop and modernize. Learn about the roles of strategic planning, management, and leadership in public and nonprofit entities and methods to facilitate timely and effective decision-making in uncertain circumstances. Coursework in this specialization also examines how community problems are analyzed and the practices and interventions that can enhance sustainability.
This specialization prepares you to develop strategies for managing change in public organizations. You will discover how transformative change occurs in complex public systems and how language can influence and inspire organizational change. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
The threat of terrorism demands constant vigilance and a strong focus on prevention. This specialization provides a foundation for understanding anti-terrorism legislation and its impact on public policies. The coursework will outline the roots of international and domestic terrorism and the political, social, and cultural motivations behind it. You will also explore the psychological effects of terrorism and trauma.
Education
Are you ready to help young children start on a path to lifelong success? Gain the confidence you need to create and deliver meaningful early learning experiences with our BS in Early Childhood Studies (Non-Licensure) program. As the Educator of Educators®, Walden proudly offers an online program grounded in the most current best practices of the early childhood field. Learn how to foster resilience and social-emotional growth so that you can support every child in whatever setting and role you choose.
Do you want to increase your impact as an early childhood educator and gain the skills to run your own program? With the Administration, Management, and Leadership specialization, you’ll gain deeper insight into what young children need in order to thrive. You’ll also master best practices for creating a welcoming, nurturing environment that instills confidence in families. Gain the practical tools to plan, resource, and guide an early childhood program. Coursework in this program is aligned with professional guidelines established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Study cognition, motivation, lifespan development, and learning for individuals ranging from high achievers to those whose needs are more specialized. This specialization will give you a multicultural perspective and help you understand, evaluate, and apply research. You can gain the skills and knowledge to enhance your work in the classroom and other educational settings. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate.
Walden’s MS in School Counseling program gives you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience in the classroom. You will explore the various issues affecting children, preteens, and teens today and learn how to provide guidance and support to diverse student populations. The optional accelerated track is designed for students who are interested in taking three courses per quarter and potentially finishing their program in a shorter time frame. The accelerated track has the same curriculum, residencies, and field experience requirements as the general track, but requires a strong time commitment and is best suited for students who can dedicate themselves full time to their studies.
Engineering
Healthcare
In the Healthcare Management specialization, you will explore quality management and project and resource management in health services organizations, as well as issues in executive-level management for healthcare administrators. In addition, you will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings.
Lead programs that foster healthier, more resilient communities with a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree from Walden. A doctorate in public health prepares practitioners with the advanced training and leadership skills to assume high-level roles in agencies, institutions, and community organizations. Choose this track if you have a Master of Public Health (MPH). It allows the student to forgo foundational public health courses and complete the program in a shorter amount of time.
More than ever, the healthcare industry needs bold, innovative changemakers. In this specialization, you’ll acquire the leadership and analytical skills required to identify opportunities, address challenges, and deliver better, more affordable, and more equitable patient care. Gain a greater understanding of the U.S. healthcare system and the financial management techniques that fuel successful healthcare organizations. Learn to build and lead diverse teams and create positive change in your workplace and community.
Public health professionals are the unsung heroes of our time, confronting challenges ranging from the opioid crisis to global pandemics like COVID-19. Prepare to join the ranks of these global change leaders with a Master of Public Health from Walden. In this Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)-accredited program, you’ll learn to understand and use data to explore solutions to problems in the field. Engage in challenging curriculum that’s enriched by the perspectives of diverse students and faculty.
Nursing
Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-acuity environments? In our online DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) specialization, learn from practicing AGACNPs as you prepare to diagnose and treat patients 13 and older with complex acute and unstable chronic medical conditions. A DNP adult-gerontology acute care program prepares nurses to perform a hospitalist or intensivist role caring for patients at an advanced level of practice. You’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner certification exam.
Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-acuity environments? In our online DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) specialization, learn from practicing AGACNPs as you prepare to diagnose and treat patients 13 and older with complex acute and unstable chronic medical conditions. A DNP adult-gerontology acute care program prepares nurses to perform a hospitalist or intensivist role caring for patients at an advanced level of practice. You’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner certification exam. Choose the MSN to DNP track if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your master’s in nursing degree.
In our DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) specialization, you’ll prepare to independently oversee your own patients 13 and older. Learn from practicing NPs as you gain the advanced training to fill the gaps in primary care delivery. AGPCNPs are advanced practice nurses who manage disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care in adolescents and adults. This DNP adult-gerontology primary care program curriculum meets the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) standards for AGPCNP. You’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner certification exam. Choose the MSN to DNP track if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your master’s in nursing degree.
Healthier communities start with healthier families. In our DNP family nurse practitioner specialization, you’ll explore how to assess, diagnose, and treat patients of all ages. Work with children, adolescents, and adults to maintain health and wellness throughout their life span. Learn to treat the whole patient by understanding the various factors that impact their health. A DNP-FNP program prepares nurses to manage disease prevention, health promotion, and restorative care in patients from birth through older adulthood. As a graduate of this online DNP-FNP program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national family nurse practitioner certification exam.
Do you love working directly with younger populations? Help ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare for patients from birth to age 21 with Walden’s DNP specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care. In this DNP pediatric nurse practitioner program, you’ll learn directly from active NPs as you gain the advanced training to treat infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Explore topics ranging from growth and development screening and family-centered care to youth mental health interventions. DNP pediatric nurse practitioner programs educationally prepare registered nurses to become advanced practice nurses who can assess, diagnose, and treat children and adolescents in primary care settings. As a graduate of this program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national pediatric nurse practitioner primary care certification exam.
Do you love working directly with younger populations? Help ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare for patients from birth to age 21 with Walden’s DNP specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care.
In this DNP pediatric nurse practitioner program, you’ll learn directly from active NPs as you gain the advanced training to treat infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Explore topics ranging from growth and development screening and family-centered care to youth mental health interventions.
DNP pediatric nurse practitioner programs educationally prepare registered nurses to become advanced practice nurses who can assess, diagnose, and treat children and adolescents in primary care settings. As a graduate of this program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national pediatric nurse practitioner primary care certification exam.
Choose the BSN to DNP track if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your bachelor’s in nursing degree.
Our DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization empowers you to support your patients’ mental health wellness. Learn from practicing PMHNPs as you gain the training and expertise to meet a critical need in today’s society. A DNP-PMHNP program prepares nurses to deliver a full spectrum of care to patients with their mental health needs, including those with psychiatric disorders, organic brain disorders, and substance abuse issues. As a graduate of this CCNE-accredited program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner certification exam.
Our DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization empowers you to support your patients’ mental health wellness. Learn from practicing PMHNPs as you gain the training and expertise to meet a critical need in today’s society. A DNP-PMHNP program prepares nurses to deliver a full spectrum of care to patients with their mental health needs, including those with psychiatric disorders, organic brain disorders, and substance abuse issues. As a graduate of this CCNE-accredited program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner certification exam.
In the PhD in Nursing Healthcare Administration specialization, you’ll improve your big-picture understanding of the healthcare system. Prepare to manage and implement healthcare programs and services by applying best practices in leadership, ethics, and strategic planning. Build your leadership skills as you learn collaborative and effective approaches to working with diverse workforces and communities.
In the PhD in Nursing Healthcare Administration specialization, you’ll improve your big-picture understanding of the healthcare system. Prepare to manage and implement healthcare programs and services by applying best practices in leadership, ethics, and strategic planning. Build your leadership skills as you learn collaborative and effective approaches to working with diverse workforces and communities.
With the PhD in Nursing Interdisciplinary Health specialization, you have the flexibility to customize your program of study with course options from public health, nursing education, population health, and leadership. Design an interdisciplinary focus area that reflects your professional goals and interests, broadens your perspectives, and enables you to work more effectively with diverse populations and teams.
With the PhD in Nursing Interdisciplinary Health specialization, you have the flexibility to customize your program of study with course options from public health, nursing education, population health, and leadership. Design an interdisciplinary focus area that reflects your professional goals and interests, broadens your perspectives, and enables you to work more effectively with diverse populations and teams.
You can gain the skills required to become a healthcare leader who can work effectively with diverse workforces and communities in a variety of political and economic settings. Through the Leadership focus area, you can build competencies in organizational change management, team building, mediation, collaboration, and systems thinking and planning. You can also develop the leadership and ethical capabilities required to advance public health goals as you gain the skills to motivate, inspire, and manage people through effective communication.
You can gain the skills required to become a healthcare leader who can work effectively with diverse workforces and communities in a variety of political and economic settings. Through the Leadership focus area, you can build competencies in organizational change management, team building, mediation, collaboration, and systems thinking and planning. You can also develop the leadership and ethical capabilities required to advance public health goals as you gain the skills to motivate, inspire, and manage people through effective communication.
Nurse educators play a vital role in preparing a diverse nursing workforce to positively impact patient care. In our PhD nursing education specialization, you’ll learn to create curriculum and programs that foster vital skills such as collaboration, a team-based patient care approach, virtual health techniques, and the use of patient data in providing effective care. Explore how to incorporate technology to engage nursing students in creative ways as they gain and apply new nursing knowledge.
Nurse educators play a vital role in preparing a diverse nursing workforce to positively impact patient care. In our PhD nursing education specialization, you’ll learn to create curriculum and programs that foster vital skills such as collaboration, a team-based patient care approach, virtual health techniques, and the use of patient data in providing effective care. Explore how to incorporate technology to engage nursing students in creative ways as they gain and apply new nursing knowledge.
In the PhD in Nursing Population Health specialization, you’ll develop a broader, interdisciplinary approach to the promotion of health for communities and populations. Threaded throughout the curriculum is an emphasis on social change. Focus your studies and research on topics that align with your passion and with the needs of specific populations. Prepare to make a positive, sustainable difference in the quality of nursing care and in the nursing profession as a whole.
Walden offers students who hold a Doctor in Nursing Practice degree (DNP) a shorter path to the PhD in Nursing. Recognizing your previous academic progress, we will apply up to 25 credits toward your doctoral program, significantly reducing the time to completion and your total costs. This accelerated DNP to PhD in Nursing option builds on your current knowledge and experience with scholarly research and relevant coursework that will further academically prepare you for leadership positions in nursing administration, policy, or academia.
If you thrive in fast-paced, high-acuity environments, consider Walden’s online MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program. Learn to diagnose and treat patients 13 and older with complex acute and unstable chronic medical conditions. Build the hard and soft skills you need to rise confidently to every challenge and contribute to improved patient experience.
If you thrive in fast-paced, high-acuity environments, consider Walden’s online MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program. Learn to diagnose and treat patients 13 and older with complex acute and unstable chronic medical conditions. Build the hard and soft skills you need to rise confidently to every challenge and contribute to improved patient experience.
Guide your own patients throughout their healthcare journey with Walden’s MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program. Gain the advanced training to oversee the health and well-being of individuals 13 and older. Help shape a more equitable system that serves every person with compassion and dignity. An AGPCNP specialization prepares nurses to manage disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care in adolescents and adults. Build the skills and confidence needed to deliver quality primary care and make a life-changing impact for the patients and communities you serve.
Guide your own patients throughout their healthcare journey with Walden’s MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program. Gain the advanced training to oversee the health and well-being of individuals 13 and older. Help shape a more equitable system that serves every person with compassion and dignity. An AGPCNP specialization prepares nurses to manage disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care in adolescents and adults. Build the skills and confidence needed to deliver quality primary care and make a life-changing impact for the patients and communities you serve.
Play a bigger role in delivering equitable, high-quality healthcare with Walden’s online MSN specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) . Learn how to assess, diagnose, and treat patients holistically through all life’s stages. Get the support and flexibility you need to stay on track, thrive in your studies, and complete your program—even when life gets busy. An MSN-FNP program readies nurses to become advanced-practice nurses who manage disease prevention, health promotion, and restorative care in patients of all ages. As a graduate of this CCNE-accredited MSN-FNP online program, you’ll be academically prepared to sit for the national family nurse practitioner certification exam.
Do you want to advance healthcare delivery and make a real difference for your organization and community? An MSN with a specialization in Nurse Executive prepares nurses with the next-level leadership skills you need to positively impact nursing practice. Our program is aligned with the Nurse Executive Competencies established by the Association of Nurse Leaders (AONL). If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Do you want to advance healthcare delivery and make a real difference for your organization and community? An MSN with a specialization in Nurse Executive prepares nurses with the next-level leadership skills you need to positively impact nursing practice. Our program is aligned with the Nurse Executive Competencies established by the Association of Nurse Leaders (AONL). If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Do you want to help strengthen the nursing workforce of today—and tomorrow? Whether your goal is to teach aspiring nurses or train healthcare staff, Walden’s MSN program with a Nursing Education specialization empowers you to engage and inspire learners of all backgrounds. In this specialization, you’ll learn to ignite creativity and critical thinking in your students through evidence-based teaching practices. Deepen your clinical insights, explore real scenarios, and apply what you learn in a hands-on setting. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Data and technology are changing how healthcare is delivered, providing the actionable insights clinicians need to deliver the highest levels of patient care. With an MSN with nursing informatics specialization from Walden, you’ll be prepared to be part of this exciting evolution. In our MSN Nursing Informatics specialization, you’ll learn to harness innovation to support clinical decision-making and create more efficient healthcare processes. Leverage your nursing experience and serve as a bridge between your organization’s technology systems and its clinical staff. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Data and technology are changing how healthcare is delivered, providing the actionable insights clinicians need to deliver the highest levels of patient care. With an MSN with nursing informatics specialization from Walden, you’ll be prepared to be part of this exciting evolution. In our MSN Nursing Informatics specialization, you’ll learn to harness innovation to support clinical decision-making and create more efficient healthcare processes. Leverage your nursing experience and serve as a bridge between your organization’s technology systems and its clinical staff. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning format, you'll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Do you have a passion for working with young patients? Take an active role in helping to ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare with Walden’s MSN specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care. In this pediatric nurse practitioner MSN program, you’ll gain the advanced training to treat patients from birth to age 21. Prepare to assume a greater level of responsibility and deliver direct care with compassion and insight. An online MSN PNP program educationally prepares RNs to become advanced-practice nurses who can assess, diagnose, and treat children and adolescents in a range of primary care settings.
Do you have a passion for working with young patients? Take an active role in helping to ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare with Walden’s MSN specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Primary Care. In this pediatric nurse practitioner MSN program, you’ll gain the advanced training to treat patients from birth to age 21. Prepare to assume a greater level of responsibility and deliver direct care with compassion and insight. An online MSN PNP program educationally prepares RNs to become advanced-practice nurses who can assess, diagnose, and treat children and adolescents in a range of primary care settings.
As a nurse, you see the disparities in healthcare firsthand—and you’re ready to challenge the status quo. With an MSN specialization in public health from Walden, you can help promote health awareness and equitable access in your community. Gain the interdisciplinary perspective and skills to help empower entire populations to live healthier lives. An MSN with a specialization in Public Health Nursing can prepare you to shift from direct patient care to managing community health initiatives, particularly for the underserved. Get the tools you need to make a tangible impact, from developing population-based nursing interventions to preparing for and responding to disasters.
As a nurse, you see the disparities in healthcare firsthand—and you’re ready to challenge the status quo. With an MSN specialization in public health from Walden, you can help promote health awareness and equitable access in your community. Gain the interdisciplinary perspective and skills to help empower entire populations to live healthier lives. An MSN with a specialization in Public Health Nursing can prepare you to shift from direct patient care to managing community health initiatives, particularly for the underserved. Get the tools you need to make a tangible impact, from developing population-based nursing interventions to preparing for and responding to disasters.
Psychology & Human Services
In this concentration, you will gain a solid foundation and knowledge of psychological principles from all of the varying areas of psychology. These areas include individuals and society, experimental psychology, developmental psychology, and applied psychology. The curriculum will help you build on your ability to relate to all types of people as you increase your understanding of life in a complex world. With the AIM option, you can take up to five master’s-level courses from certain Walden master’s programs at the undergraduate tuition rate. Start your master’s with credits already under your belt. AIM is a great option if you’re interested in pursuing graduate studies in psychology or a related field. Many master’s programs at Walden are eligible for AIM.
In the Prevention, Intervention, and Advocacy specialization, you’ll increase your confidence and capabilities as a human services practitioner. Explore how to support individual, family, and community needs; advocate with legislators and decision makers; and create the evidence to support creation of new services. The capstone project for this specialization involves developing an evidence-based white paper designed to advocate for specific social change interventions and programs.
In this program, you will:
- Synthesize theory and research in the physical, cognitive, emotional, health, social, and cultural aspects of human development
- Evaluate how key issues and seminal works in the field of developmental psychology apply to human development across the lifespan.
- Describe experiences and perspectives of diverse populations—including but not limited to those defined by race, culture, socioeconomics, age, gender, sexual orientation, and disability—from a developmental psychology perspective.
Gain a broad understanding of developmental psychology and how you can apply its principles across the life span. In the General Program, you’ll develop an understanding of psychopathology, including emotional and behavioral disorders, and the classification systems of infants, children, and adolescents. You’ll also develop the skills necessary to apply a multidisciplinary approach to the study of aging. You may choose to focus on one of the following: The cognitive, social-emotional, and psychomotor characteristics of individuals who display significant behavioral deviation from the norm. The impact and psychological implications associated with culture.
In this specialization, you will explore advanced qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research methodologies. You will develop the skills to collect and analyze complex data and to apply this knowledge to the field of human services and the study of diverse populations. This specialization can prepare you for a career in consulting, providing ongoing research and evaluation of human services for policy makers and government organizations. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
In the Criminal Justice specialization, you will explore traditional and contemporary intervention and rehabilitation approaches for both offenders and victims. By examining the factors that can contribute to criminal behavior, you can identify the key challenges facing the criminal justice system today—and what you as a human services professional can do to help address these problems. This program leads to a dissertation that will add to the body of knowledge in the field of criminal justice. This specialization can prepare you to lead programs within prisons, and probation and parole programs. Other career opportunities include policy and planning in the Bureau of Prisons, the Department of Justice, or halfway and rehabilitation programs. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
In this specialization, you will examine the theory and strategies to respond to the initial needs of a community in an emergency situation and how to assist victims and caregivers after the initial crisis has passed. You can study the skills and practices specific to crisis counseling, including theories of crisis intervention and models for working with different populations. You examine the actions and behaviors that follow a disaster; address stress, coping, and adjustment difficulties; and study psychological disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Coursework gives you the opportunity to explore a crisis at the community and regional levels and design a crisis plan to prepare for future emergencies. This specialization also addresses the psychology and impact of terrorism on communities. Your dissertation will focus on adding to the body of knowledge in this field. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
The Family Studies and Intervention specialization helps you understand the use of advanced clinical theory and research methodology within a unique, client-centered ecological context. You study a broad spectrum of theoretical and clinical approaches to intervention, which emphasize the special needs of ethnic and racial minorities; gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals; and single-parent and low-income families. You will gain skills in developing multimodal therapeutic approaches and recognizing special treatment considerations within a diverse client delivery system. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
In this specialization, you will gain a broad understanding of the current educational environment and explore theories and best practices in adult learning. You will also explore teaching strategies, instructional design, and online delivery methods to lead human services education courses or programs in academic settings around the world. This program helps prepare you for career opportunities such as course leader in human services, program leader or developer in human services, instructor, adjunct faculty, or full-time faculty. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
With the significant role that mental health plays in communities, there is a demand for professionals to connect those in need of services with the appropriate resources. In the Mental Health specialization, you will develop the skills to help individuals navigate community mental health services. The program explores the role of mental health in health behavioral changes, and you will gain a solid understanding of the assessment and referral system for mental health intervention and support. Your dissertation will explore an issue in mental health. As a graduate, you will be prepared for nontherapeutic counseling roles such as community mental health clinic coordinator, field service provider, and resource personnel, both in military and civilian agencies. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
Members of the armed forces face a variety of challenges, both during their service and after they have fulfilled their duties. In this specialization, you’ll explore topics such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and vicarious trauma and learn about the emotional impact of parent-child separation, frequent family relocations, extensive deployments, and other issues experienced by military families. You can gain the knowledge and insight needed to address the unique needs of military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones as they deal with the challenges inherent in military life. This specialization can prepare you for careers such as social and community worker for Veterans Affairs or community veteran services, human services program leader, and nontherapeutic counselor. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
In this specialization, you will study the nature of leadership in human service organizations, including the management of nonprofits. Coursework explores topics related to the organization and operation of nonprofits, including legal and ethical issues, board management, marketing, budgeting, and resource development. Your dissertation will explore an issue in nonprofit administration. Through this program, you will develop skills that will help you establish, lead, or join the staff of a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization, or agency in the U.S. or abroad. Choose this track if you have a master's degree from an accredited university in human services, counseling, social work, or psychology.
Aging populations with special needs require professionals who can facilitate the integration of services for the older adult, including issues related to health, home care, and day-to-day life. The Gerontology specialization prepares you to meet this need. In this program, you will explore the impact of societal expectations on the elderly and demographic trends, including global cross-cultural issues in aging. You will study the factors that affect the quality of life for the geriatric population, including the physiological changes of aging, effects of chronic disease, and challenges of independent living. With this specialization, you could pursue a number of roles, including elder residence administrator, activities and activation coordinator, housing placement advisor, community care coordinator, capacity assessor, policy advisor, financial advisor, elder program developer, manager for elderly and elder mediation, elder care case manager, or an Elder Services Coordinator designation under Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR).
The Doctor of Psychology in Behavioral Health Leadership is a non-licensure program that provides doctoral training for behavioral health professionals who want to gain the practical skills to lead, consult, create, evaluate, and improve behavioral health systems in today’s integrated care settings. In this program, you will build cross-disciplinary knowledge and skills in leadership, financial management and procurement, instruction and training, entrepreneurship, and program evaluation. You will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings. You will also complete a consulting skills intensive retreat and a virtual doctoral residency. The program requires a non-dissertation action research project that addresses a problem or issue within the behavioral health practice.
In the Health Psychology specialization, you will explore the biological, psychological, behavioral, social, cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to health and illness and changing health behavior. You will choose an elective in either women’s health, child and adolescent health, or gerontology/geriatric health. You will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings.
In the Industrial and Organizational Psychology specialization, you will gain knowledge in organizational behavior and an in-depth understanding of contemporary, international, and virtual organizations. You will also learn how to apply business concepts to organizational development, with a focus on strengthening and building behavioral health organizations of the future. In addition, you will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings.
The International Practice specialization focuses on management and leadership in a global environment, understanding cultural differences, and international health and behavioral health issues. In addition, You will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings.
In the Public Health specialization, you will gain knowledge in global health and issues in disease prevention as well as marketing, communication, and public relations for healthcare leaders. You will also explore economics and financing of public health systems. You will also be prepared with entrepreneurship and advocacy skills to promote positive social change in behavioral healthcare settings.
The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program at Walden University is designed for professionals aiming to advance their careers in social work leadership, education, or administration. This online program emphasizes social change and offers three specializations: Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision, Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration, and Social Work Education. Students develop skills in research, leadership, and teaching, with a curriculum that integrates immersive learning technologies and online simulations. The program also includes a capstone project to address real-world social work challenges.
The MS in Clinical Psychology (Prepare for Licensure in select states) program is designed to prepare graduates to qualify for a variety of mental health professional licenses in some states that require additional coursework and/or field experience beyond what is provided in the MS in Clinical Psychology General Program of study. The specific licensing credential varies by state. This program specialization is designed to meet the academic licensure requirements of some state boards that license mental health professionals at the master’s level. Please note the MS in Clinical Psychology General Program meets state licensure eligibility requirements in the following states: Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Tennessee and the District of Columbia.
Gain a broad understanding of forensic psychology and how you can apply its principles in a variety of settings, from correctional institutions to court systems to community-based programs. You’ll also build your knowledge of how forensic psychology professionals work within the legal system and in community-based programs, with an emphasis on preventing and reducing criminal behavior.
In this specialization you will study the prevention, intervention, and promotion of well-being in a variety of settings, including schools, communities, and organizations. Courses also explore the theoretical, ethical, social, political, and cultural factors that influence social services programs. You will learn how to identify the needs of individuals and families and to help these clients navigate services in their communities. This specialization can help academically prepare you to pursue non-licensure roles in a variety of community social services settings.
In the Criminal Justice specialization, you will explore both traditional and contemporary intervention and rehabilitation approaches for offenders as well as their victims. By examining the factors that can contribute to criminal behavior, you can identify the key challenges facing the criminal justice system today—and what human services professionals can do to help address these problems.
Whether it’s an act of nature or an act of terror, effective crisis management leaders are needed to curtail the effects of the disaster and implement relief efforts. This specialization focuses on theories and strategies to meet the needs of individuals, families, and communities in crisis. You will explore common reactions that communities share following a disaster and the psychological and behavioral disorders individuals can develop as a result. Coursework will allow you to gain an understanding of how different counseling practices are used to help individuals overcome the disorders. You will examine how to analyze a crisis at both a local and regional level and apply your knowledge to design a crisis plan to prepare for future emergencies.
In diverse populations, human services professionals must be in tune with the special needs of underrepresented or marginalized populations. In this MS in Human and Social Services specialization, you will explore a broad spectrum of theoretical and clinical approaches to intervention. At the completion of your studies, you will be able to recognize special treatment considerations and develop multimodal therapeutic approaches.
Explore the full spectrum of human services competencies and strategies to prepare you to make a greater difference in the community you serve. As a student, you will study best practices for delivery systems, program planning, and evaluation methods. The curriculum includes a grant writing course and a focus on interprofessional practice. By studying a broad range of topics, you can expand your understanding of the field within a global context and gain practical skills.
In the Mental Health specialization, you will develop the skills to help individuals navigate community mental health services. The program explores the role of mental health in health behavioral changes and provides a solid understanding of the assessment and referral system for mental health intervention and support.
From combat-related injuries to addiction, members of the armed forces may face a multitude of challenges both on the front lines and when they return home. In this specialization, you’ll deepen your understanding of military culture and explore topics such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and vicarious trauma. You will also examine how frequent relocations, parent-child separation, and extensive deployments impact military families. Learn skills and strategies for helping active and former military personnel and their spouses and children cope effectively with hardships and improve their quality of life.
In this specialization, you will gain a broad understanding of the nature of leadership in human service organizations, including management of nonprofits. Courses explore a variety of topics related to the organization and operation of nonprofits, including legal and ethical issues, board management, marketing, budgeting, and resource development.
Aging populations with special needs are creating a greater demand for professionals who can facilitate the integration of services for the older adult, including health and home care, financial and lifestyle, and issues of daily living. The Studies in Aging specialization academically prepares you to meet this growing need. In this specialization, you will explore the impact of societal expectations on older adults and demographic trends, including global cross-cultural issues in aging. You will develop a broad understanding of factors that affect the quality of life for the geriatric population, from the physiological changes of aging to the effects of chronic disease, to the challenges of independent living.
This specialization is designed for students interested in the practical application of I/O principles, skills, and knowledge to improve individual and organizational productivity in the workplace. Gain an understanding of the roles within organizations and teams and examine what elements are needed to build synergy among individuals and create a healthy workforce. Learn how to assess organizational issues, develop intervention plans, and evaluate the effectiveness of those interventions. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning® format, you’ll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no weekly deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Help people with autism and developmental disabilities engage more successfully with the world when you choose the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) specialization. ABA is an evidence-based therapy used with both adults and children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Learn to use the principles of human behavior to transform problem behaviors, build positive social skills, and improve lives. This specialization offers a course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), which meets the 5th edition task list requirements to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam. Graduates of this program who wish to pursue certification must also complete a period of supervised practical experience as defined by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board® (BACB®). Walden does not offer the fieldwork component required for the BCBA exam.
In this specialization you will receive a broad exposure to the field of psychology, including both research and practice-oriented elements of the profession. Explore the fundamentals of psychology, including methods, theory, and principles of the field while learning about psychopathology, intervention, and principles of ethics in professional psychology practice. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate.
In what ways does digital technology affect our attitudes, relationships, and behaviors? How can understanding this help businesses perform better and grow? In Walden’s Digital Psychology specialization, you’ll answer these questions and more. Explore how the digital world affects human psychology—from the choices we make to how we learn and interact with others. Learn basic digital data analysis skills to help organizations make informed, data-driven decisions that help them compete in a crowded marketplace.
Benefit from this specialization’s comprehensive study of the social, cultural, and cognitive aspects of human behavior as you explore the fundamentals of psychology, including its theories, methods, and principles. You can evaluate and design research methods and examine multicultural and/or global perspectives of psychology. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate. If you choose Walden’s competency-based Tempo Learning® format, you’ll have access to three-month, all-you-can-learn subscriptions, no weekly deadlines, and faculty and coach support when needed.
Explore the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence health. You can gain a broad understanding of psychological theories, principles, and research strategies while focusing on the knowledge and skills required to prevent illness and to promote healthy behaviors. This specialization can prepare you for a career improving services to patients and staff in medical centers, including health maintenance organizations, rehabilitation centers, pain management centers, and public health agencies. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate.
Explore the way individuals socially construct thoughts, attitudes, and feelings, and gain an understanding of how this process affects both individual and group behavior. Study the principles of social psychological theory to improve the welfare of individuals, groups, organizations, or society. This specialization also offers an optional doctoral preparation track, for those who want a head start on their doctorate.









































