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The PhD in Human Development is a high-level research-based academic program aimed at studying the human development process and its impact over the lifetime of an individual by studying the biology, psychology, and sociology involved. This degree usually takes 4-6 years to accomplish and contain the curriculum such as the developmental theories, statistical methods, research methods of the discipline and elective ones. They also carry out independent supervised study that ends with a doctoral thesis that offers new wisdom in the discipline.
Generally, to gain admission into a PhD Human Development program, one must meet the following conditions; a master’s degree, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and valid scores on graduate entrance tests like GRE or MAT. Taking the GRE subject test in Psychology is also sometimes obligatory. Incoming students are academically talented, have conducted research in the past and are looking forward to do more research, are committed and passionate in the field, and possess good writing and analytical skills. Talented students conduct research and make conference paper submissions before applying for a program. Average of standardized tests scores differ from program to program but successful candidates perform much better than 70 percentile on both quantitative and verbal tests.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Duration | 3-5 years (Full-time, may vary) |
| Course Level | Doctoral Degree |
| Eligibility | Master's Degree in a relevant field (Psychology, Education, Human Development) with a strong academic record (minimum percentage varies). Some programs may require relevant research experience. |
1. Student should hold a Master’s degree in psychology, human development or related field from an accredited university with an average cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above.
2. GRE scores: minimum verbal and quantitative scores that can range from 600 to 700, with most schools requiring scores at the 50th percentile and above.
3. Letters of recommendation from three professors/employers of related field regarding your academic and/or professional achievements.
4. A personal statement that should include your interests to conduct research, accomplishments in the academic arena, any previous experience you may possess in the area of human development, and your career aspirations.
5. Meeting with the faculty to determine how well one fits with program research and whether there are potential grant opportunities.
| Stage | Subjects (Indicative) | Important Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework (1-2 Years) | * Advanced Human Development Theories * Research Methods in Human Development * Statistical Analysis for Research * Elective Courses (Focus Area Specific) (e.g., Child Development, Adolescent Development, Adult Development & Aging, Cognitive Development, Sociocultural Development) | * In-depth exploration of major theoretical frameworks in human development * Developing research skills (conceptualization, design, methodology) * Learning advanced statistical techniques for data analysis * Exploring specific areas of human development based on research interests |
| Qualifying Exam | * Comprehensive Written Exam * Oral Defense of Research Proposal | * Demonstrating mastery of core human development knowledge * Presenting and defending a proposed research project for doctoral dissertation |
| Dissertation Research (2-4 Years) | * Conducting Original Research * Data Collection & Analysis * Writing Dissertation Chapters * Presenting Research Findings | * Carrying out independent research under faculty guidance * Employing chosen research methods to collect and analyze data * Developing and writing dissertation chapters based on research findings * Presenting research at conferences or seminars and in written form (dissertation) |
| Job Title | Specialization | Description | Industry | Average Salary (₹ per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University Professor/Researcher (Human Development) | (All Specializations) | Conduct research, teach courses, publish findings, and mentor students in human development. | Universities, Research Institutions | ₹5,00,000 - ₹15,00,000+ (depending on experience, publication record, university reputation, and grant funding) |
| Child Development Specialist | Child Development | Research, develop, and implement programs to support healthy child development. | Early Childhood Education Centers, Non-profit Organizations, Government Agencies | ₹4,00,000 - ₹8,00,000+ (depending on experience, expertise, and employer type) |
| Adolescence Specialist | Adolescent Development | Research and address challenges faced by adolescents, develop programs to promote positive youth development. | Schools, Youth Counseling Centers, Mental Health Agencies | ₹3,50,000 - ₹7,50,000+ (depending on experience, qualifications (counseling background preferred), and employer type) |
| Adult Development & Aging Specialist | Adult Development & Aging | Research age-related changes, develop programs and interventions to support healthy aging. | Retirement Communities, Assisted Living Facilities, Research Institutions | ₹4,25,000 - ₹8,00,000+ (depending on experience, expertise, and employer type) |
