Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, PhD
The doctoral program in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, (ISHD) provides a strong interdisciplinary foundation in developmental theory and research, and prepares students for faculty positions and research careers.
The ISHD Ph.D. program combines the study of social, emotional, and cognitive aspects of human development considered within cultural contexts and relevant to social policies. Penn GSE’s commitment to urban education as well as its West Philadelphia setting offers students the opportunity to create a specialized program of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives of human development across the lifespan. Students create an individualized program of study in close consultation with an academic advisor. Students are encouraged to take an interdisciplinary approach to human development and may take courses in other schools and departments at Penn.
For more information: http://www.gse.upenn.edu/aphd/ishd/phd
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Each student creates his or her own program of study in consultation with faculty mentor. | ||
| Recommended Courses include: | 8 | |
| Education and International Development | ||
| Psychology of the African-American | ||
| Qualitative Studies of Developmental Interventions | ||
| Cultural Perspectives on Human Development | ||
| Peer Relationships in Childhood and Adolescence | ||
| Poverty and Child Development | ||
| Cognitive Processes | ||
| Complex, Multilevel, and Longitudinal Research Models | ||
| Electives | 8 | |
Elective coursework chosen in consultation with advisor | ||
| Additional Requirements 1 | ||
| Students must complete all University Milestones for Doctoral Candidates in addition to specific milestones for GSE. These include: | ||
A Qualifications Evaluation (also known as Program Candidacy) | ||
A Preliminary Examination (also known as Doctoral Candidacy) | ||
An Oral Defense of the Dissertation Proposal | ||
Final Defense of the Dissertation | ||
| Total Course Units | 16 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
- 1
Required GSE Milestones
Qualifications Evaluation (Also known as Program Candidacy): A Qualifications Evaluation of each student is conducted after the completion of 6 but not more than 8 course units. The evaluation is designed by the specialization faculty and may be based on an examination or on a review of a student’s overall academic progress.
Preliminary Examination (Also known as Doctoral Candidacy): A Candidacy Examination on the major subject area is required. The candidacy examination is a test of knowledge in the student's area of specialization, requiring students to demonstrate knowledge and reasoning in the key content areas in their specialization as defined by their academic division. This examination is normally held after the candidate has completed all required courses.
Oral Proposal: All doctoral candidates must present their dissertation proposals orally and in person to the dissertation committee.
Final Defense of the Dissertation: The final dissertation defense is approximately two hours in length and is based upon the candidate’s dissertation.
Required Milestones
Qualifications Evaluation (Also known as Program Candidacy)
A Qualifications Evaluation of each student is conducted after the completion of 6 but not more than 8 course units. The evaluation is designed by the specialization faculty and may be based on an examination or on a review of a student’s overall academic progress.
Preliminary Examination (Also known as Doctoral Candidacy)
A Candidacy Examination on the major subject area is required. The candidacy examination is a test of knowledge in the student's area of specialization, requiring students to demonstrate knowledge and reasoning in the key content areas in their specialization as defined by their academic division. This examination is normally held after the candidate has completed all required courses.
Oral Proposal
All doctoral candidates must present their dissertation proposals orally and in person to the dissertation committee.
Final Defense of the Dissertation
The final dissertation defense is approximately two hours in length and is based upon the candidate’s dissertation.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.