University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

This master's emphasises the scientific study of human development across the lifespan and the applied skills needed to support individuals and families. Coursework combines theory, research methods and applied practice so students learn to assess developmental needs, design interventions, and evaluate services.

• Core theory: lifespan development, family systems, developmental psychopathology and ecological approaches to human development.
• Research and measurement: quantitative and qualitative research methods, advanced statistics, assessment techniques and programme evaluation.
• Practice and intervention: evidence-based intervention strategies, counselling skills, early intervention and family support approaches, and culturally responsive practice.
• Applied experience: supervised practicum or fieldwork placements in community agencies, schools, clinics or specialised programmes; many students complete a capstone project, practicum portfolio, or thesis depending on the chosen pathway.
• Electives and special topics: courses on developmental disabilities, play and learning, trauma-informed practice, policy and advocacy, or specialised assessment across age groups.

The programme is typically offered with flexible pathways to accommodate different career goals, including thesis and non-thesis options, and integrates classroom learning with hands-on placements in the northern Colorado and Denver-area communities.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree. The admissions process reviews academic preparation, relevant experience, and readiness for graduate-level research and clinical work.

• Official undergraduate transcript(s) demonstrating appropriate preparation in relevant disciplines (for example, psychology, human development, education, social work or related fields).
• A personal statement or statement of purpose that explains academic and professional goals and fit with the programme.
• Letters of recommendation that speak to academic potential and/or relevant professional experience.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae outlining relevant work, practicum or volunteer experience.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit writing samples, additional documentation of practicum experience, or to complete an interview; background checks or health requirements may apply for practicum placements.

Specific prerequisites, testing requirements (such as GRE) and GPA expectations are outlined by the department and considered alongside professional experience and the overall strength of the application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across clinical, educational, community and policy settings. The programme prepares students for positions that involve assessment, intervention, programme coordination and service evaluation.

• Early intervention specialist, family support coordinator or case manager in community agencies.
• Behavioural specialist or developmental specialist working with children and adolescents in school or clinic settings.
• Program developer, evaluator or administrator for non-profit and public service organisations.
• Research assistant or coordinator in applied developmental research projects; preparation for doctoral study in human development or related fields.
• Roles in advocacy, policy development or consultation focused on family and child welfare, ageing services, or inclusive community practice.

Graduates often combine the degree with additional credentialing, supervised experience, or incremental training required by particular professional licences or certifications in their chosen career path.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a programme grounded in applied, interdisciplinary training with access to diverse practicum settings in the Greeley and Denver regions. Faculty bring expertise in developmental science, family intervention, and community-based research, and the department emphasises close mentoring and supervised clinical experience.

• Strong emphasis on experiential learning with local partnerships for practicum placements and community-engaged research.
• Faculty who combine research and applied practice, offering mentorship for both professional and research-oriented students.
• Flexible programme pathways that support thesis work, capstone projects or practicum-focused training to match varied career aims.
• Supportive graduate community with opportunities for assistantships, collaboration across education and health-related units, and preparation for doctoral study or professional practice.