Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines core coursework in human development and family studies with applied training in assessment, intervention and program development. Students study theoretical foundations and evidence-based practices that address individual, family and community needs across the lifespan.

• Core topics: lifespan human development, family systems theory, ethics and professional practice, multicultural issues in human services.
• Assessment and intervention: clinical interviewing, psychometric assessment, family therapy models, crisis and traumainformed interventions.
• Research and evaluation: research methods, statistics for social sciences, program evaluation and applied research design.
• Practicum and fieldwork: supervised practicum placements and internships in community agencies, schools or health settings to build applied skills and professional hours.
• Capstone options: thesis, applied project, or comprehensive examination depending on student goals and program track.
• Electives and specialisations: courses allow focus on areas such as family life education, clinical family therapy, early childhood development, gerontology, or community-based services.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Admission typically considers academic preparation, relevant experience, and fit with programme goals rather than a single metric.

• Official transcripts demonstrating undergraduate study; coursework in psychology, sociology, education or related fields is advantageous.
• A personal statement that outlines professional goals, relevant experience and reasons for pursuing graduate study in human development and family studies.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s potential for graduate study.
• A résumé or CV detailing employment, volunteer or practicum experience in human services, education, health or related settings.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores or additional materials depending on the specific emphasis or faculty review; international applicants must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in clinical, educational and community contexts. Career paths depend on specialisation and licensure pursued after graduation.

• Family and marital therapists (with follow-up licensure where required) and practitioners in community mental health agencies.
• Family life educators, parent-infant programme coordinators and family support specialists in nonprofit and public-sector agencies.
• School- or agency-based counsellors, case managers and programme developers addressing child and family wellbeing.
• Policy and advocacy roles focused on family services, child welfare and community development.
• Research assistantships or progression to doctoral study in human development, family studies or related social science fields.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a programme emphasising applied, community-engaged training with small cohort sizes and close faculty mentorship. The university’s location provides access to a variety of practicum sites across both urban and rural settings, giving students hands-on experience with diverse populations.

• Faculty with expertise in lifespan development, family systems and applied research who supervise practicum and thesis projects.
• Strong community partnerships with social service agencies, schools and health providers across the region that support placement and employment opportunities.
• Flexible delivery options and support services suited to working students, including evening and hybrid course formats where available.
• Opportunities to engage in applied research and programme evaluation that prepare graduates for practice, leadership and further academic study.