PhD in Family Science and Human Development, Montclair State University

60 Months

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About this course

The PhD in Family Science and Human Development at Montclair State University is a multidisciplinary program that explores family life within larger socio-cultural contexts. It draws from social science disciplines like sociology, social work, education, gerontology, and developmental psychology. The program aims to understand how issues of power, privilege, and social justice influence family configurations, focusing on both strengths and challenges of families. It prepares graduates for careers in academia, government, nonprofit, and private sectors, equipping them to be researchers, policymakers, program administrators, and educators focusing on families across all life stages.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students find this program particularly appealing because it combines interdisciplinary research with practical applications, providing a flexible and supportive environment for pursuing research interests. The faculty are described as topnotch and supportive, making it an ideal environment for research and teaching. Graduates are highly attractive to employers across higher education, government, and nonprofit sectors due to their broad skill set and focus on social justice issues impacting families.

Specialisation

This program offers a comprehensive focus on family science and human development, considering diverse family issues through an interdisciplinary lens. Students come from varied backgrounds such as family studies, education, psychology, social work, and sociology, and the program emphasises both research and applied approaches to understanding and solving family-related problems.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

7.53L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants with a family studies master’s degree typically need to complete 36 semester hours. Those with a related field may need up to nine additional prerequisite credits, determined on a case-by-case basis. After coursework and advancement to candidacy, students must complete at least 12 semester hours of dissertation research. Upon successful defense of their dissertation, they receive their PhD.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

105

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Montclair State University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD program are prepared for a variety of professional roles including faculty positions at colleges and universities, program administrators, researchers, evaluators, and policymakers. They can also work with organizations focusing on children, youth, adults, older adults, and families across different sectors.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Family Science and Human Development?

Applicants need a master’s degree in a related field, a strong academic record, and must submit transcripts, personal essays, a writing sample, recommendation letters, a resume, and do not require GRE scores.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline for fall admission is January 15 each year.