Best Online Doctorate in Human and Family Development Programs

Earning a doctorate in human development and family studies online requires students to complete courses, pass exams, and write a dissertation. Most human and family development programs offer a mix of core and elective classes that cover topics like human development, quantitative research methods, and emotional development. Many programs also offer classes in marriage and family therapy or provide opportunities for interdisciplinary research in neuroscience, social work, or education. While a doctorate prepares graduates to work in academic positions as professors or researchers, each program emphasizes different areas of human development and family studies. This means that prospective students must evaluate which programs best aligns with their goals.

Within the human development and family studies field, doctoral students can focus on:

Each program offers several concentrations, core classes, and faculty advisors. These options allow doctoral students to customize their degree around their research interests and professional goals. For example, students interested in statistical analysis and careers in research science may prefer a program that offers that concentration. By carefully researching programs, prospective students can find the best fit for their interests.

Doctorate in human development and family studies online programs design their own curricula and concentrations, so prospective students should carefully research what each program offers. If you pay attention to program specializations, elective courses, and graduate career paths, then you can choose a program that fits your interests and career goals.

• Adult Development:
  This course covers adult development theories and focuses on the most influential theorists. Doctoral students also survey the most recent research and learn how to apply these theories in clinical settings.
• Advanced Human Development:
  Doctoral students study advanced theories and research on development throughout the life span, from prenatal development to gerontology. The course may allow students to focus on their dissertation topic.
• Theories in Human Development:
  Students survey psychoanalysis, behaviorism, and cognitive theories of human development research. The course examines the differences between theories, the role of developmental stages, and influential theorists.

• Quantitative Research Methods:
  This course develops advanced skills in quantitative research, including mixed methods, structured data collection, experimental design, and data analysis. Students learn to develop a research method by following ethical procedures and Institutional Review Board guidelines.
• Dissertation:
  Doctoral students complete a dissertation under the supervision of a faculty advisor. The dissertation must be based on original research and contribute to the field. In order to graduate, doctoral students defend the dissertation.

As the terminal degree in human and family development, a doctorate leads to careers in academia, research, and management. While many doctoral students pursue careers as professors, they can also work as research scientists for private organizations, government agencies, or universities. A Ph.D. or DSW can also lead to careers in higher education administration.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

The difference between a social work Ph.D. and a doctor of social work (DSW) is that social work Ph.D. programs tend to be oriented towards research, while DSW programs tend to be oriented towards clinical practice. However, both degrees share significant overlap when it comes to their curriculum and educational requirements. Regardless of which degree is earned, the holder of the degree has a doctorate in the field of social work. If you are interested in the research-side of social work, then you might want to look at social work Ph.D. programs. If you are interested in leading social workers in a clinical setting, then consider a DSW.