We admit graduate students whose goal is to earn a Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Development, which typically takes at least five years of full-time study to complete. We do not provide training in counseling or clinical skills.
The FSHD graduate program curriculum is designed to provide broad exposure to developmental and interpersonal and family theories, to develop research skills and expertise, and to build in-depth knowledge in a content area chosen by the student.
Courses required for the Ph.D. include Analysis of Family Studies, Theories of Human Development, Foundations of Family and Interpersonal Theory, Application of Family and Interpersonal Theory, Research Methods, Statistics, and special topics seminars chosen based on student interests. Doctoral students also complete coursework in a chosen minor area.
After completing a master's thesis and required coursework, a MS degree is earned in progression toward the Ph.D. Additional requirements for the Ph.D. include a pre-candidacy meeting, written and oral comprehensive exams and a dissertation.
For specific program requirements and information, please see the FSHD Graduate Program Handbook.
MS/Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Development
We admit graduate students whose goal is to earn a Ph.D. in FSHD. After completing required coursework and a Master's thesis, a MS degree is earned. Additional requirements for the Ph.D. include a pre-candidacy meeting, minor and major coursework, comprehensive exams and a dissertation. We do not offer a stand-alone masters in the counseling or clinical areas.
Graduate Program Details
Core Faculty
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
University of Arizona Graduate College
The McClelland Institute
Family and Consumer Sciences Education (FACSED)
Retailing and Consumer Sciences (RCSC)