The Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science provides students with a strong foundation in developmental, interpersonal, and family theories, in-depth research skills and expertise, and builds in-depth knowledge in a content area chosen by the student in consultation with their advisor. The Ph.D. emphasis in HDFS is designed to prepare students for academic positions in departments of Human Development and Family Science or equivalent advanced positions.

About Our Program

Students will investigate the ways in which individuals interact within the family system and with the larger sociocultural environment, as well as the process of biosocial, psychosocial and cognitive development across the lifespan.

To better appreciate the complexity of families, the program strives to foster in students an awareness of the development of family systems, roles and reciprocal interactions. We encourage students to look at families as more than just interpersonal interactions and to address family resources that can contribute to stress or resilience during times of crisis or change.

Our goal is to provide graduates who are prepared for roles in professions requiring:

• Knowledge of biological, cognitive and socio-emotional characteristics of humans across the lifespan
• Knowledge of family systems and family interactions
• Knowledge of effective communication for working with individuals and families
• Assessment and improvement of resources needed by individuals, families and their communities
• The ability to provide education about individual development and family life
• The ability to combine elements of education, prevention and early intervention
• The ability to work in an intergenerational context and with diverse families.