The University of the Rockies in Colorado will add a Master of Arts in Human Development program to its curriculum, school officials announced.

This fall, students will be able to enroll to earn a master's degree in human development and will have the option of adding specializations in gerontology or adult learning and development. In this degree program, students will learn to apply effective practices related to human development factors such as emotional, cognitive, cultural, environmental, ethical, and social structures.

"The MA in Human Development is a leading edge program that meets the needs of 21st century professionals who want to improve their skills by better understanding the diverse dynamics of human development," Dr. Robert Edelbrock, interim dean of the School of Social, Human, and Educational Development at University of the Rockies, said in a statement. "Our programs are designed to prepare students to assess and improve programs that meet the changing needs of society, related to stages of adult development and aging populations in diverse cultures."

Dr. Tina Parscal, provost at University of the Rockies said that as the school's population gets more diverse, "understanding human development is becoming more and more valuable."

"We are delighted to offer the new Master of Arts in Human Development program in order to provide opportunities for students to get the education they need to work and become thought leaders in the expanding field of human development," Pascal added.

The new program was approved by the Higher Learning Commission in February 2015 and the University is now accepting students into this program.