University of Pittsburgh

The Applied Developmental Psychology (ADP) programs at the Pitt School of Education emphasize the correlation between research and practice in the promotion of positive outcomes in human development for children, youth, and families.

By completing our ADP programs, you will become an expert in applying knowledge of child development and evidence-based practices to address real-world problems in real-world settings. You will also become an expert in interdisciplinary collaboration as you design, implement, and evaluate innovative intervention programs.

There are many employment opportunities in the field. There is a growing need for trained professionals at community-based mental health agencies, K-12 schools, healthcare settings, and out-of-school settings. At the doctoral level, employment opportunities exist at universities, research organizations, and government agencies.

Who You Will Become

Pitt School of Education HHD students will embrace the primacy of developing responsive relationships with faculty and community partners as the basis for personal growth, networking, and career success.  As students, you will become…

• Future leaders in your chosen specializations by modeling ethical behavior and equitable professional practices
• Committed professionals in Exercise Science, Health and Wellness Promotion, and Physiology (e.g. wellness, exercise prescription, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, sports performance, prevention of chronic disease)
• Specialized professionals in Applied Developmental Psychology with competencies in both applied service and applied research (e.g. children with special healthcare needs-child life, behavioral health, infant mental health, child and youth development, program evaluation, early childhood intervention)
• Researchers who inform recommended practices for promoting health and development
• Faculty who educate the next generation of health and development professionals
• Committed professionals who understand the importance of enlightened public policies
• Engaged professionals who use social and political advocacy as a tool for ensuring the human rights of our most vulnerable citizens