La Roche University

What you'll study

The Behavioural Sciences curriculum combines coursework in psychological science, sociological perspectives and research methods to give students a rounded understanding of individual and group behaviour. Core subjects typically include introductory and developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, lifespan development, and introductory sociology.

Students also study quantitative and qualitative research methods and statistics, ethics in behavioural research, and biological bases of behaviour (introductory neuroscience). Applied and practicum components are integral: courses in intervention strategies, case management and community engagement prepare students for real-world settings. Electives may cover topics such as addiction and recovery, child and adolescent development, gerontology, criminal behaviour, and multicultural counselling.

Programme structure commonly features general education requirements alongside a major sequence, a research capstone or senior project, and field experience or internship credits that connect classroom learning to community agencies in the Pittsburgh region.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include a competitive high-school GPA and completion of recommended preparatory coursework such as English, mathematics and a social science. La Roche considers applicants holistically, so a personal statement, teacher or counsellor recommendation, and evidence of community or volunteer engagement can strengthen an application.

Standardised tests may be optional; check the university’s admissions guidance for current test policies. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for transfer credit evaluation. International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements and submit required documentation as specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Sciences have a range of entry-level career options across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common roles include behavioural health technician, case manager, community outreach coordinator, research assistant, youth worker, rehabilitation support specialist, and roles in human services or programme coordination.

The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in clinical psychology, counselling, social work (MSW), public health, criminal justice or research-focused master’s and doctoral programmes. Many alumni combine the undergraduate degree with professional certification or graduate training to work as licensed clinicians, therapist-assistants or specialised programme directors.

Why study at La Roche University

La Roche University offers a small-campus environment with a liberal-arts approach, emphasising close faculty mentorship, small class sizes and experiential learning. Behavioural Sciences students benefit from faculty who teach across psychology and sociology, opportunities for hands-on internships with community agencies in the Pittsburgh area, and access to undergraduate research and capstone projects.

The university’s values-based mission supports ethical and service-oriented practice, and its location near a mid-sized urban area provides diverse practicum placements and employment connections. Students seeking personalised advising, leadership opportunities in campus organisations, and a strong preparation for graduate study or community-based careers will find the programme well suited to those goals.