Prerequisites to major work are fundamental knowledge of family and consumer sciences. This knowledge may be gained while also studying for the advanced degree. The degree consists of a minimum of 30 semester credit hours including completion of a research thesis. At least 24 credits are to be taken in the major field including 18 credits of course work and 6 credits for the research thesis. Courses in research methods, statistics, curriculum, and learner evaluation are part of the program.
Students select other department courses to complete the remaining number of required credits.
The degree consists of a minimum of 30 semester credit hours including completion of a developmental creative component. A minimum of 24 credits are to be taken in the major field, with at least 21 credits of course work and 3 credits for the creative component. The creative component provides opportunity for action research, study of a local problem, an internship, or another activity approved by the student's committee. Courses in research design, curriculum, statistics, and learner evaluation are part of the program. Students who have just completed a masters degree may use those credits toward the Ph.D. if they were earned within the required period and are acceptable to the Program of Study Committee.