Penn State HDFS PhD Graduate Program 2027 | Application Open for Graduate Study
The Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University is accepting applications for its Doctor of Philosophy graduate programme. Interested students can apply through the Penn State Graduate School admissions portal.
Overview
The Department of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) at Pennsylvania State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) graduate programme designed for students pursuing advanced academic and research training in human development, family studies, and behavioral sciences. The department follows a doctoral pathway and does not offer a terminal master's programme; students entering with a bachelor's degree will complete a master's degree en route to the Ph.D.
Eligibility
The programme utilises a holistic review process to evaluate each applicant. Please note the following regarding qualifications and testing:
- Applicants may apply to only one graduate degree programme at a time under university policy and must select the Ph.D. degree.
- GRE scores are not required, though some applicants may choose to submit them if they believe it strengthens their application.
- International applicants must review additional university requirements and account for time-zone differences.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official Penn State Graduate School admissions portal. Candidates should prepare and submit the following required materials:
- Scientific writing sample
- Official academic transcripts
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
- Statement of professional and career plans
- Three letters of recommendation
Deadline
The application deadline is December 1. Applicants submitting from outside the United States should account for Penn State’s Eastern Standard Time zone when filing their materials.