Human Development

Ph.D. in Human Development- Doctoral Program Overview

Doctoral programs in the Department of Human Development integrate research-based knowledge with human-based values. We promote the quality of life of our society's most basic elements-individuals, families, and communities. We value collaboration, inclusion, equity, empowerment, passion, and celebration in our work. We also embody a lived commitment to the land grant mission of integrating teaching, research, and outreach. Distinctive features of our graduate programs include:

  • A commitment to the highest standard of relevance-research, teaching, and outreach that meets real needs of real people;
  • A faculty that is both nationally known and committed to nurturing the best in our students;
  • Opportunities to work closely with faculty and peers on research, journal articles, and professional presentations;
  • Opportuniites to apply knowledge in real-world settings. (Thress such settings are part of our departmetn: The Child Development Center for Learning and Research, The Adult Day Services, and the Family Therapy Center);
  • Membership of all doctoral students on one or more faculty research teams;
  • Training and practica in university teaching for all doctoral students who desire these experiences; and
  • A bi-weekly professional seminar attended by students and faculty. These seminars provide professional socialization through mentoring, making presentations, and connecting with each faculty members.