University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, practicum experiences, and original research to prepare scholars and practitioners in lifespan human development and family studies. Core areas include developmental theory, family systems, advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, measurement and assessment, and professional ethics. Students typically also take specialised seminars in topics such as early childhood development, adolescent development, ageing, disability and rehabilitation services, family therapy and intervention, public policy as it relates to families, and multicultural and Indigenous perspectives.

Programme structure generally includes:

• Advanced coursework in theory and research methods (including statistics, longitudinal design, and program evaluation)
• Specialist electives aligned with the student’s chosen concentration (for example, early intervention, family resilience, or clinical services)
• Practicum or supervised applied experiences in community, school, health or social service settings
• Comprehensive or qualifying examinations to assess readiness for doctoral research
• An original doctoral dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field
• Opportunities for teaching experience and collaborative research with faculty

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Human Development Theory
• Family Systems and Processes
• Advanced Quantitative Methods and SEM
• Qualitative Methods for Family Research
• Program Evaluation and Applied Measurement
• Evidence-Based Interventions Across the Lifespan
• Cultural and Community Contexts of Development
• Policy, Advocacy, and Services for Families

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a master’s degree in human development, family studies, psychology, education, social work, or a related discipline. A strong academic record in graduate coursework and relevant research experience are important. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or résumé, a statement of research interests and professional goals, samples of scholarly writing, and three letters of recommendation.

Admissions committees look for evidence of potential for independent research and fit with faculty expertise. Some applicants may be requested to provide GRE scores where required by departmental policy; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless a waiver applies. Competitive applicants often have prior practicum or professional experience in applied settings such as schools, clinics, or community agencies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue careers across academia, research, policy and applied settings. Common career paths include:

• University faculty and academic researchers conducting basic and applied research on development and family processes
• Program directors, evaluators and policy analysts in government agencies or non-profit organisations
• Clinical and service-leadership roles in community mental health, early intervention, school systems and rehabilitation services
• Consultants specialising in programme development, assessment, or family support initiatives
• Positions in applied research centres, think tanks, and interdisciplinary research institutes

Training in advanced research methods and applied practicum experiences also prepares graduates for leadership roles in grant-funded projects, large-scale evaluations, and interdisciplinary teams addressing population and community needs.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a doctoral environment with close faculty mentorship and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across education, health sciences and community services. Faculty expertise spans developmental science, family intervention, rural and Indigenous contexts, and applied methods, which supports research that addresses regional and global challenges.

Doctoral students can access research-active laboratories, interdisciplinary centres and community partnerships that support field placements and applied research. Small cohort sizes foster individualized mentoring and teaching experience, and funded assistantships or research appointments are commonly available to support student development as researchers and educators.

Overall, the programme emphasises rigorous methodological training, community-engaged scholarship, and preparation for leadership roles in research, policy and practice related to human development and family well-being.