Drexel University

Overview

The PhD program in Couple and Family Therapy at Drexel University is designed to cultivate research-focused scholars equipped with the skills necessary to advance clinical practice through evidence-informed interventions. This program emphasizes the integration of rigorous scholarship and applied clinical experience, preparing graduates to contribute significantly to the field of couple and family therapy.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to enhance research competence while deepening theoretical and clinical understanding of couple and family systems. Students will engage in a blend of coursework, research training, and dissertation work, covering the following key areas:

• Core academic training: In-depth study of systems theory and therapy, focusing on research literacy and scholarly inquiry.
• Research methods and scholarship: Comprehensive training in designing, conducting, and evaluating research pertinent to couple and family therapy, including the development and assessment of evidence-informed interventions.
• Clinical and contextual learning: An analytical approach to understanding how aspects such as culture, race, class, gender, spirituality, sexual orientation, and power dynamics affect clinical practice and research outcomes.
• Relational and systems foundations: Engagement with significant therapeutic frameworks utilized in couple and family contexts, including attachment and emotion-focused approaches, as well as medical and family systems perspectives.
• Dissertation: Completion of a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field of couple and family therapy.

Note: For detailed course lists, semester-by-semester sequencing, and dissertation milestones, prospective students are encouraged to consult with the program office.

Entry requirements

While specific GRE/GMAT and minimum GPA requirements are not detailed, admission decisions typically consider a combination of academic qualifications, research potential, and alignment with the program’s scholarly focus. Prospective students should check with the program office for updates on entry requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Couple and Family Therapy are well-prepared for a variety of professional opportunities in academia, research, and clinical practice. They may pursue careers as researchers, educators, or clinicians, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practices within the field of couple and family therapy. The program's emphasis on evidence-informed approaches equips graduates to address contemporary challenges in mental health and relationship dynamics.