Academics

Family Science and Human Development

PhD • Doctoral

Two students converse over notes in a collaborative workspace

Advance research, shape policy and strengthen families and communities. The PhD in Family Science and Human Development at Montclair State University prepares you to become a leader in research, policy and higher education.

This 48-credit program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from psychology, sociology, social work, economics, gender studies and biology to understand individuals, families and communities holistically.

With the option to focus on Family Science or Human Development, you’ll gain expertise through core coursework, applied research, community engagement and dissertation advice. You’ll work with nationally and internationally recognized faculty who mentor you in both research and career development.

Graduates are prepared for roles in higher education, government, nonprofits, research, program administration and policy-making.

Program Highlights

  • 48-credit program completed in as little as four years
  • Full- and part-time study options for flexibility
  • Hands-on applied research with community engagement opportunities
  • Mentorship from renowned faculty with global expertise in a variety of fields
  • Career pathways in academia, research, policy, and nonprofit leadership

Shape the future of families and communities with a PhD in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State.

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Admission Requirements

  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Admissions criteria to be considered for the doctoral program include a master’s degree in a related field and a strong record in previous academic work.

Application Checklist

Application Deadline: January 15th of each calendar year (Fall Admissions Only)

  1. Deposit Required: An enrollment deposit is required upon admission and will be applied to your first semester’s tuition.
  2. Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  3. Transcript: One from each college attended.
  4. Essays/Personal Statement: Two.
    • Personal Statement: Briefly describe your current scholarly interests (i.e., what would you like to develop expertise in during your time in the program) and your likely long-term professional/career goals.
      • Why you are interested in the discipline of Family Science and Human Development (FSHD), generally, and Montclair State University’s FSHD PhD program, specifically.
      • How your prior experiences (i.e., life, educational, and/or work) have prepared you to be a doctoral student.
      • Indicate up to three faculty with whom you are interested in working and explain why they would be a potential good scholarly mentor for you. *Please refer to the following website for a list of faculty in the Family Science and Human Development PhD program.
      • Please feel free to share anything else that you believe is important for us to know about your application.
    • Scholarly Writing Sample: Please submit a document you wrote alone or took the lead in writing. For example: a literature review, an honor’s thesis; or a manuscript published, accepted for publication, or submitted for publication. If you do not have a scientific writing sample, please write a 3-4 page (double-spaced) literature review, incorporating citations from the scientific literature, on a topic related to family science that you are interested in pursuing as part of your graduate studies.
  5. Letters of Recommendation: Two; ideally from former professors and/or those with a doctoral degree.
  6. Resume: Required.
  7. Standardized Test Scores: GRE not required.

Featured Faculty

See What Our Students Say!

“The best parts of the program are the conversations, both difficult and interesting, that I am able to have with my peers and faculty. One of the most important things that contributes to my learning is open and fluid conversations.”

Duane Williams, PhD ’23

Program: PhD in Family Science and Human Development
Career: Higher Education

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you’re interested in applying for this program, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Elizabeth Emery

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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