Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The programme offers a lifespan approach to human development, blending theory, research methods and applied practical experience. Core areas include developmental psychology from infancy through older adulthood, family systems and dynamics, cultural diversity, and social policy that affects families and communities.

• Typical core modules: Lifespan Human Development; Family Systems and Family Theory; Research Methods and Statistics in Human Development; Child and Adolescent Development; Adult and Gerontological Development.
• Applied and practicum modules: Practicum/Fieldwork in Family and Community Settings; Intervention and Counselling Techniques; Program Planning and Evaluation.
• Electives and special topics: Infant Mental Health; Family Policy and Advocacy; Substance Use and Family Functioning; Diversity and Inequality in Family Life; Trauma-Informed Practice.
• Capstone and research: Many students complete a senior seminar or capstone project that integrates empirical research and applied work; opportunities for mentored undergraduate research with faculty are available.

Students are encouraged to combine the major with complementary minors (for example, Psychology, Public Policy, Sociology, or Education) and to take advantage of service-learning and internship placements in the Silicon Valley region.

Entry requirements

Admission to Santa Clara University is competitive and based on academic preparation and the strength of the overall application. Prospective students should present a strong secondary school academic record with solid course work in English and quantitative reasoning. Typical application materials include the Common Application (or Coalition Application), a personal statement, and at least one letter of recommendation.

• Academic background: High school diploma or recognised equivalent with coursework that demonstrates readiness for university-level study.
• Preparation: Successful applicants usually show engagement in community service, extracurricular leadership or relevant volunteer experience with children, families or social services.
• Other materials: SAT/ACT scores may be submitted where available (policies vary); international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.
• Transfer students: Transfer applicants should have a record of college-level coursework with transferable credits and usually provide college transcripts and course descriptions.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of entry-level roles in family- and human-service organisations, or for graduate study in related professions. The programme develops skills in assessment, programme planning, research and culturally responsive practice.

• Community and social service agencies: caseworker, family support specialist, programme coordinator.
• Education and child development settings: early childhood programme staff, child life assistant, after-school programme director (certifications may be required for some roles).
• Health and mental health settings: behavioural health technician, patient-family liaison, community outreach worker (clinical roles generally require further professional training).
• Policy, advocacy and research: policy aide, research assistant, positions in non-profit advocacy organisations.
• Further study and professional qualifications: graduates commonly pursue master's degrees in social work, counselling, marriage and family therapy, public policy or education.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University combines a liberal arts foundation with practical, hands-on learning rooted in Jesuit values of service and social justice. The department emphasises small classes and close faculty mentorship, enabling students to pursue applied practicum placements and undergraduate research projects.

• Experiential learning: Strong links with community agencies in the Bay Area provide local practicum and internship opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world practice.
• Interdisciplinary strengths: Proximity to a range of departments and professional schools supports interdisciplinary study—useful for students interested in policy, business of non-profits or health fields.
• Supportive environment: Advising, career services and alumni networks help students plan postgraduate pathways and locate internships or employment in the region and beyond.