La Roche University

What you'll study

This programme combines core human development and family studies theory with skills-based training and supervised field experience. You will study typical human development from infancy to older adulthood, family systems and dynamics, and how social, cultural and economic contexts shape family functioning.

• Foundations of Human Development: lifespan developmental theory, attachment, cognitive and socio-emotional development.
• Family Studies and Systems: family life cycle, parenting, couple relationships, blended and non-traditional family structures.
• Assessment and Intervention: interviewing and assessment techniques, brief interventions, case conceptualisation and crisis response.
• Practice Skills: counselling skills, group facilitation, communication, cultural competence and ethical decision-making.
• Research and Evaluation: research methods, statistics for social sciences, programme evaluation and evidence-based practice.
• Policy and Community Contexts: child welfare, family policy, community resources and advocacy.
• Aged and Special Populations: adolescent development, adult and gerontological issues, disability and inclusive practice.
• Practicum/Field Experience: supervised placements with community agencies, where you apply classroom learning in real-world settings and complete professional documentation and reflective practice.

The curriculum is delivered through a mix of lectures, small seminars, labs for skill practice, service-learning and sequential field placements that build professional competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions factors include academic performance in secondary studies, a personal statement outlining interest in the field, and at least one academic or professional reference. Mature applicants with relevant work or volunteer experience are considered.

Because the programme includes placements with external agencies, offers may be conditional on background checks, health clearances or immunisation information as required by placement partners. Some courses that involve assessment or evidence-based practice may recommend prior coursework in psychology, sociology or statistics, or the programme may include introductory bridge modules.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions across human services and family support sectors or to continue to graduate training. Common roles taken by alumni include:

• Family support worker, family preservation specialist or wraparound coordinator
• Case manager or service coordinator in child welfare, mental health or disability services
• Community outreach worker, youth worker or school-based support staff
• Early intervention specialist or child development practitioner (where combined with credentialing requirements)
• Residential or therapeutic programme support roles for adolescents and adults

Many graduates continue to professional programmes in social work, counselling, marriage and family therapy, public health or education, or pursue certification pathways relevant to local practice requirements.

Why study at La Roche University

La Roche offers a student-centred, small-campus learning environment where students work closely with faculty who bring applied experience in social services, family therapy and community programming. The university’s liberal-arts emphasis ensures you gain strong communication, ethical reasoning and research skills alongside practice competencies.

La Roche’s location near Pittsburgh gives students access to a wide range of placement partners — including non-profit agencies, schools and health services — enabling varied practicum opportunities. The programme emphasises experiential learning, mentorship and career advising to support transitions into employment or graduate study.

The programme is also aligned with the university’s commitment to community engagement and service, helping students develop culturally responsive approaches and practical strategies for supporting individuals and families in diverse settings.