FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Human Development Degree Completion Program is designed for adult learners who began college but did not complete their degree. The program focuses on understanding human growth and development across the lifespan—preparing students for careers in education, human services, and community leadership.

The DCP is open to:

• Howard University former students who wish to return and complete their degree
• Transfer students from other institutions who have previously earned college credits
• Working adults seeking to finish their undergraduate studies
• Individuals interested in careers that support people, families, and communities

Degree Completion Program Admission Requirements & General Education

To be eligible for the School of Education’s Degree Completion Program (120 credit hours), applicants must:

• Transfer 60–72 approved credit hours from an accredited college or university
• Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2
• Have not earned college/university credit within the past one (1) year

To comply with Howard University’s 7 Essential Learning Outcomes, applicants must have completed 18–20 Core curriculum credit hours within the transferable credits under review.

Required Core Courses:

• 6 credits – Written Communication (First-Year Writing Composition I & II)
• 3 credits – Oral Communication (SLMC 101: Principles of Speech)
• 6–8 credits – Scientific & Quantitative Reasoning
  • Math 005/006 and 110 or
  • Math 005/006 and 007
• 3 credits – Critical Analysis & Reasoning
  • Afro-American Core Cluster or selected Philosophy courses

No. Standardized test scores are not required for admission into the DCP.

Applicants should apply directly through the Common Transfer Application Portal and select Human Development – Degree Completion Program as their intended major.

Students who enroll full-time (15 credit hours per semester, which is considered full-time can complete the program in two years. 

Courses are offered entirely online for maximum flexibility. Faculty meet synchronously with students approximately 6 to 7 times each semester to promote engagement and support learning.

New cohorts typically begin each Fall semester.

Curriculum & Learning Experience

The curriculum explores a wide range of topics, including:
• Human growth and development across the lifespan
• Family and community systems
• Social and cultural influences on learning and behavior
• Program design and evaluation for community-based organizations

Yes. Students complete a senior capstone project or internship that applies classroom learning to a real-world community or organizational setting.

Tuition is $600 per credit hour. With estimated tuition and fees, this averages out to $9,000 per semester for a full-time course load of 15 credits. Students are encouraged to review current tuition and fees on the university website. 

Yes. Students in the DCP are eligible for federal and institutional aid. All applicants are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and scholarships.

Yes. Students in the DCP are eligible for internal scholarships within the School of Education and University. Students should apply by the announced deadline for scholarships. Students may also apply for external scholarships. 

Yes. Each student is assigned a dedicated academic advisor who provides individualized guidance on course planning, credit transfer, and academic success strategies.

Graduates are prepared for careers in:
• Education and training
• Nonprofit and community organizations
• Human resources and workforce development
• Social services and counseling support

Many graduates also continue to graduate study in education, counseling, psychology, or social work.