Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines theoretical foundations in human development with practical skills for working with children, adults and families. Core topics include lifespan development, family systems theory, child and adolescent development, lifespan social and emotional development, and ageing. You will study research methods and basic statistics to evaluate programmes and interpret evidence, and explore specialised courses such as family policy, multicultural issues in helping professions, family law and ethics.

Practical learning is emphasised through fieldwork and applied courses. Typical modules and experiences include:

• Introduction to Human Development: foundations of developmental theory from infancy to old age.
• Child and Adolescent Development: cognitive, social and emotional growth during childhood and adolescence.
• Family Systems and Relationships: family dynamics, parenting, couple relationships and family life cycles.
• Research Methods and Statistics: basic quantitative and qualitative methods for human development practitioners.
• Assessment and Intervention Techniques: observation, assessment tools, and brief evidence-based interventions used in community settings.
• Special Populations and Inclusive Practice: working with diverse families, children with special needs and older adults.
• Programme Planning and Evaluation: designing, implementing and assessing community or family-focused programmes.
• Field Placement / Internship: supervised practicum in community agencies, schools, health services or non‑profit organisations, culminating in a senior seminar or capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement. Typical entry considerations include a combination of secondary school grades and any standardised test results where required by the university. Admissions may favour applicants who have taken coursework in English and the social sciences.

Relevant experience—such as volunteering, paid work with children, families or community organisations, or participation in civic activities—can strengthen an application. Mature students and those transferring from other institutions are considered; transfer applicants should provide transcripts and details of prior coursework. Prospective students seeking progression to professional programmes should check any specific departmental prerequisites or recommended preparatory courses.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in human services, community and health settings. Common career paths include family support worker, youth worker, case manager, programme coordinator, early childhood centre staff, community outreach worker and advocacy roles for vulnerable populations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in social work, counselling, rehabilitation, public health, education and related applied disciplines.

Because the programme emphasises field experience and applied skills, many graduates find employment with local and regional agencies such as social service departments, non‑profit organisations, healthcare providers, schools and family resource centres. Others use the degree as preparation for professional licensure or for specialised graduate training in clinical or policy roles.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers an applied, student‑centred programme with strong connections to community agencies across the region, providing ample opportunities for supervised placements and local partnerships. Small class sizes support close interaction with faculty who are active in research and practice related to family studies and human development.

The department emphasises real‑world experience and career preparation, with access to career services, internship coordination and student organisations that support professional development. Students also benefit from a campus environment that supports research, volunteerism and interdisciplinary collaboration with education, health and social service programmes.