UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · UNITED STATES
Family Science, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Interdisciplinary approach combining perspectives from family science, therapy, health, policy, and behavioral sciences.Interdisciplinary Focus
- Emphasis on research, policy analysis, and culturally responsive interventions for diverse families.Research & Application
- Proximity to Washington D.C. offers unique research and internship opportunities in family policy.Location Advantage
- Access to extensive library resources, including the Library of Congress and NIH.Research Resources
- Center for Healthy Families provides practical training and research opportunities.Clinical Training
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Family Science at the University of Maryland offers an interdisciplinary, research-oriented approach to understanding families and their health. It examines how families interact with their biological, psychological, social, political, and economic environments. The program equips doctoral students with extensive knowledge of family theory, various research methodologies, family policy, and issues facing contemporary families, with a special focus on racial/ethnic minority families. Graduates will be prepared to design and implement culturally responsive interventions and evaluations, analyze public policies' impact on family well-being, and pursue careers in academia, research, policy analysis, and leadership roles in human service and public health organizations.
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Family Science are prepared for a variety of impactful roles in both academic and applied settings.
- University Teaching
- Research
- Family Policy Analysis
- Administrative positions in human service programs
- Administrative positions in public health programs
- Family Therapy
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
- A Master's degree in Family Science or a related field is required. Applicants with only a Bachelor's degree need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Accepted English proficiency tests include IELTS (7.0 overall) and Duolingo (120).
- How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
- International applicants must apply through the TerpEngage Graduate Admissions System and submit transcripts, English proficiency scores, letters of recommendation, CV/Resume, a writing sample, and a program-specific supplemental application.
- What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
- The priority application deadline for Fall admission is November 7, 2025, and the final application deadline is December 5, 2025.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
- International students are subject to special tuition rates that are the same as for residents and can be found on the University's Tuition and Fees page. Additional graduate student fees also apply.
- Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available for international Ph.D. students?
- Fellowships and Graduate Assistantships are available to admitted students. Specific details about Graduate Assistantships can be found on the department's website.
- What kind of career opportunities can I pursue after completing this Ph.D. program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in university teaching, research, family policy analysis, and administrative positions in human service and public health programs.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA Master's degree in Family Science or a related behavioral or social science field is required. Applicants with a Bachelor's degree must also meet a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
Undergraduate GPAMinimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (if applying with only a Bachelor's degree).
IELTS7.0 overall
TOEFL iBTNot specified, but minimum 87 is typical for UMD graduate programs.
Duolingo English Test (DET)120
GRE scores are not required for this program. Applicants may be invited for an interview.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current rates. Special tuition rates apply and do not differ between residents and non-residents.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current rates. Special tuition rates apply and do not differ between residents and non-residents.
LivingNot specified.
Additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change. Graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission may not fully cover the special tuition rate.
How to apply
1. Complete the UMD Graduate ApplicationSubmit your application through the TerpEngage Graduate Admissions System.
2. Submit TranscriptsUpload unofficial transcripts in their original language along with a literal English translation. Official transcripts will be required upon admission.
3. Provide English Proficiency ScoresSubmit official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo). Use reporting code 5814.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsInclude a statement of purpose, response to personal experiences questions, letters of recommendation (3), CV/Resume, and one writing sample.
5. Submit Supplemental ApplicationComplete and upload the program-specific supplemental application form, which includes a personal statement addressing diversity and social justice contributions.
6. Application Review and InterviewApplications will be reviewed, and promising candidates may be invited for an interview.
Scholarships
Fellowships and Graduate AssistantshipsNot specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
+
A Master's degree in Family Science or a related field is required. Applicants with only a Bachelor's degree need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Accepted English proficiency tests include IELTS (7.0 overall) and Duolingo (120).
How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
+
International applicants must apply through the TerpEngage Graduate Admissions System and submit transcripts, English proficiency scores, letters of recommendation, CV/Resume, a writing sample, and a program-specific supplemental application.
What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Family Science program?
+
The priority application deadline for Fall admission is November 7, 2025, and the final application deadline is December 5, 2025.
What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
+
International students are subject to special tuition rates that are the same as for residents and can be found on the University's Tuition and Fees page. Additional graduate student fees also apply.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available for international Ph.D. students?
+
Fellowships and Graduate Assistantships are available to admitted students. Specific details about Graduate Assistantships can be found on the department's website.
What kind of career opportunities can I pursue after completing this Ph.D. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in university teaching, research, family policy analysis, and administrative positions in human service and public health programs.