PhD Program in Human Development: FAQ

During the first year of the program, students must complete the interdisciplinary core courses together with their cohort. Later, students can complete the research and specialization courses at their convenience. Keep in mind that continuous registration is required and students must register for at least 6 credits each semester.

One full-time assistantship (18 credits of tuition, plus stipend) is available to students enrolled in the PhD program, which may be granted to one student or shared by two. Applications are available through the Office of Enrollment Management. The process is competitive.

Yes, the GRE is required and is part of the student's application. Only a GRE score taken within 5 years of the application deadline set by the Graduate Admissions Office will be accepted.

Yes, there is a scholarship fund dedicated to Ph.D. students. Each year, at least 70% of Ph.D. students who apply for a scholarship receive an award. Applications are available through the Office of Enrollment Management.

Courses are typically offered on weekday evenings during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Yes, you must complete a written and oral exam to qualify for Ph.D. candidacy. The written component of the exam asks for an interdisciplinary response to a question of your choice. The resulting written work, approximately 20 pages, is reviewed blindly by three faculty members. If your paper is deemed satisfactory, you must then orally present it to the review committee.

All course work must be completed within 7 years.