The family sciences doctoral (Ph.D.) program is a research-based curriculum that provides a strong foundation in theory, research methods, and statistics. We also provide all doctoral students with teaching opportunities. The curriculum is competency based, but minimal coursework requirements include 20 credit hours of foundational courses (if not taken in master’s program), 9 credit hours of research methods and theory, 9 credit hours of statistics, 7 credit hours of professional development, and 15 credit hours in a specialization area.

Four emphasis areas are available in the family sciences doctoral program: (a) adolescent development, (b) aging, (c) family finance and economics, and (d) family processes. Additionally, graduate certificates can be earned in specialization areas such as applied statistics, college teaching and learning, gerontology, maternal and child health, and gender and women’s studies.