PhD Program in Human Development: Admission Requirements

Admission to the Ph.D. Program is competitive. Marywood seeks students that exhibit superior academic achievement, a sensitivity to interdisciplinary inquiry, and a potential for professional leadership in their respective fields.

To apply, visit the Graduate Admissions page.

General Requirements

1. A master's degree from a regionally-accredited college or university


2. Recent coursework in Research Methodology and Statistics (graduate or undergraduate)


3. Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts


4. Three letters of recommendation (at least two from instructors or current supervisors) addressing your academic achievement and professional accomplishments


5. A reflective essay (approximately 1000 words) addressing your personal and/or professional goals and how they can be achieved through participation in this interdisciplinary program


6. GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) General Test scores (taken within the past five years)


7. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score, if an international student


8. Personal interview and writing sample

Specialization Requirements

Social Work

• An M.S.W. degree
• An interest in social justice

All Other Specializations

• A master's degree in a related field