The graduate program offers a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree with an emphasis in Family Studies and Human Development (FSHD) as well as a Masters degree in Family and Consumer Sciences Education (MS FACS). For specific program requirements and information, please see the FSHD Graduate Program Handbook. You can also download our Checklist for Ph.D. Plan of Study.
Ph.D. Program in FSHD
Students interested in research, consulting, and/or teaching at the college level may pursue a doctoral degree with a concentration in family studies and human development. The program typically takes five years and combines advanced study in human development with family and interpersonal theories, research, and special topics.
Recent program graduates have taken positions as research scientists and professors in the fields of human development and family studies, family health, adolescent sexuality, criminal justice, psychology and anthropology.
Benefits of FSHD Ph.D. Program Include:
Faculty Mentoring and Research Opportunities
The doctoral program follows an apprenticeship model in which students work closely with a faculty mentor. Faculty and Students conduct research generally in the core research areas of Family relationships; Health and well-being ; Adolescent development and transition to adulthood ; Social and emotional development in early childhood ; Romantic and sexual relationships; and Applied research.
MS FACS Program
For students who wish advanced training in classroom or community-based teaching, the division offers a master's degree with an emphasis in family and consumer sciences education. Typically, this is a two-year program and requires a master's project. In addition to teaching positions, the degree prepares graduates for supervisory positions at the local and state level, as specialists in the Cooperative Extension Service, or education positions in human services. For further information contact Maureen Kelly at mekelly@ag.arizona.edu
Counseling
We do NOT provide training or coursework in counseling, therapy or diagnosis of clinical disorders. Our Master's and doctoral programs do not lead to licensure as a mental health professional. Prospective students who are interested in careers in mental health services should seek information elsewhere, including the American Psychological Association (www.apa.org), the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (www.aamft.org) and National Association of Social Workers (naswvt.org).
Core Faculty
Ph.D. Program Overview
Graduate Courses
Graduate Handbook
FSHD Graduate Minor Handbook
Checklist for Ph.D. Plan of Study
Applying to the Graduate Program
Application for Graduate Admission
Application for Graduate Assistantship
Recommendation for Graduate Admission
Current Graduate Students
The McClelland Institute
Family and Consumer Sciences Education (FACSED)
Retailing and Consumer Sciences (RCSC)
University of Arizona Graduate College