Family & Consumer Sciences (PHD) - Family Studies and Human Development

The doctoral program includes basic and applied courses, which provide broad exposure to relevant theories and research methods with in-depth specialization in FSHD,  emphasis area, and encourages ongoing student involvement in research, including but not limited to the thesis and dissertation.

In addition to major coursework, a student is required to choose a minor outside of the major to enhance the student's ability to solve problems from an interdisciplinary perspective. Other elements of the doctoral program are the research mentorship program, research methods and statistics courses, and the doctoral dissertation. Through the doctoral program, a student will acquire a firm foundation in theory and research methodologies relevant to their emphasis area and will also become competent in advanced statistical techniques necessary for conducting research.

Research in Family Studies and Human Development is conducted in 5 core areas. These targeted areas constitute our core domains for development of focused excellence in basic and applied research on families and human development.

1. Adolescent Development and Transition to Adulthood

2. Family Relationships and Health/Well-being

3. Social and Emotional Development In Early Childhood

4. Romantic and Sexual Relationships

5. Applied Research

For more information on the faculty who specialize in the 5 core areas of research visit: http://cals.arizona.edu/fcs/fshd/coreresearch

• International applicants to Arizona Online campus, Global Direct campus, or a Global Microcampus should choose the Distance Learner (DL) visa type in their Application Profile.
• International applicants to the Main campus must currently hold a US visa that permits incidental study. 
• Please verify your visa eligibility with International Student Services before applying.  The application fee is non-refundable and will not be refunded if your visa status is not eligible.  
• Applicants must meet all Graduate College minimum admission requirements, including English proficiency.
• Applicants should be prepared to submit copies of their visa documents, additional transcripts, or degree documentation if requested.
• University of Arizona regulations require that all international students on non-immigrant visas carry the University of Arizona student health insurance plan.