University of Mount Union

What you'll study

The programme examines physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development from infancy through older adulthood, and emphasises the roles of family, culture and community in shaping life course outcomes. Coursework balances theoretical foundations with applied skill development and community-based experience.

• Core topics: lifespan human development, family systems and dynamics, child and adolescent development, adult development and ageing.
• Research and methods: introductory and intermediate statistics, research methods in human development, program evaluation.
• Applied practice: counselling and interviewing techniques, family assessment, intervention strategies, case management principles.
• Specialist areas: early childhood development, parenting and parent education, child welfare, gerontology, multicultural issues in human services.
• Experiential learning: practicum and internship placements with local schools, social service agencies, health providers and community organisations; a senior capstone or applied project integrating theory, research and practice.

Programme structure

The major combines general education requirements with a sequence of major courses and elective options, typically culminating in supervised field experience. Students work with faculty advisors to plan a programme that meets professional or graduate preparation goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admission typically considers high-school GPA and academic preparation; standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy. Recommended preparation includes courses in English, social studies, and biology or psychology. Transfer applicants with college credits will have those evaluated for equivalency, and prospective students should contact admissions to discuss placement and any prerequisite coursework.

For students seeking the practicum component, background checks and health clearance (for placements with children or vulnerable adults) are usually required prior to placement. International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of human service roles in non-profit, public and private sectors, or continue to graduate study. Typical job titles and settings include:

• Case manager, family support specialist or family resource coordinator in social service agencies
• Early intervention specialist or early childhood programme staff in schools and community agencies
• Child welfare worker or youth services practitioner
• Community outreach or programme coordinator for health and human services organisations
• Gerontology support roles in ageing services and long-term care settings
• Positions in programme evaluation, advocacy, and policy support

Many graduates also pursue advanced study in social work (MSW), counselling, marriage and family therapy, education, public health or related fields; the degree provides foundational knowledge and practicum experience valued by graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Mount Union

Mount Union offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling personalised advising and hands-on learning. The programme’s emphasis on practicum placements leverages partnerships with local schools, social service agencies and health providers, giving students real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

Faculty combine teaching and applied research in human development and family studies, and students have access to on-campus resources such as career services and community engagement offices to support practicum placement, internships and post-graduate planning. The curriculum is designed to prepare students both for immediate entry into human services careers and for further professional training.