phd degrees at asu

Psychology, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Psychology

The PhD program in psychology offers comprehensive training in innovative research methods and the application of psychological principles across various human conditions. This program stands out with six highly ranked areas of study:

• behavioral neuroscience and comparative psychology
• clinical psychology
• cognitive psychology
• developmental psychology
• quantitative research methods ( formal degree concentration )
• social psychology

Each specialization shapes the core curriculum for its students, encouraging interdisciplinary learning opportunities across the university.

Faculty engage students in groundbreaking research, fostering theoretical exploration in areas such as evolution and behavior; cognitive processes such as attention and memory; personality studies; and societal issues such as stigma and prejudices. Students investigate diverse topics, including individual resilience, cultural influences, neurobiological and psychosocial factors impacting behavior and health, child mental health prevention and life span developmental aspects of emotion and cognition.

A unique strength of this doctoral psychology program is the wealth of outstanding faculty who excel in quantitative methods. No matter their specialized area of focus, students gain access to a wide variety of courses and hands-on experiences, seamlessly integrating quantitative methodologies into their work.

Psychology PhD specializations

Behavioral neuroscience and comparative psychology, clinical psychology, cognitive science, developmental psychology, social psychology, quantitative research methods, degree requirements.

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (3 or 4 credit hours) PSY 502 Professional Issues in Psychology (3) or PSY 531 Multiple Regression in Psychological Research (4)

Electives and Research (68 or 69 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) PSY 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information In addition to required coursework pertaining to the training area, students take courses related to their area of interest, as determined in consultation with their supervisory committees. Requirements vary across training areas.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• SlideRoom application and fee
• statement of purpose form
• curriculum vitae or resume
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

To apply to the doctoral programs, applicants must follow the instructions on the doctoral program admission instructions and checklist. It is strongly recommended that applicants download and print this form to ensure completion of the application process and include all of the required supplemental forms.

The Department of Psychology application process is completed online through ASU's graduate admission services, which includes the application form and official transcripts. Application to Department of Psychology doctoral programs is also completed via SlideRoom, for processing of supplemental application materials. The SlideRoom account requires an additional fee.

Applicants must submit three academic letters of recommendation from faculty members who know the student well. Three letters are required, but four letters of recommendation may be submitted.

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The doctorate in psychology opens up diverse career opportunities across academia, education, health care, industry, government and community organizations. This program equips students with a versatile skill set in research design, data analysis, measurement, mental health assessment, treatment and program evaluation.

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/727-4561

History, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD History

The PhD program in history offers outstanding opportunities for graduate study in North American, European, public and global-comparative history.

The School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies' world-class faculty members deliver courses and individualized mentoring in a wide range of historical topics, such as urban history, environment and sustainability studies, politics and policy, immigration, gender, race and ethnicity, and comparative history. In addition, doctoral history students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the numerous collaborative opportunities that exist throughout the university in ASU's many innovative schools and centers.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (16 credit hours) HST 502 Public History Methodology (3) HST 640 Historical Methods (3) HST 641 North American History (3) HST 643 Global History (3) HST 644 Area Studies in History (3) HST 682 Advanced Research Skill (1)

Electives and Research (44 credit hours)

Other Requirement (12 credit hours) HST 591 Seminar (6) HST 792 Research (6)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) HST 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information In general, all credit hours must be at the 500 level or above. Graduate credit may be awarded for 400-level courses; it must be approved in advance and documented in the student's file.

The doctoral program requires a minimum of 84 credit hours and may be completed in four to five years. Students with a master's degree may apply 30 credit hours toward the 84 required credit hours with approval of the academic unit and the Graduate College. If the student does not already have a master's degree in a related field, then the remaining 30 credit hours are made up of electives and research to reach the 84 credit hours required for the doctoral program.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program. The most competitive applicants have a GPA of 3.30 or higher.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• statement of purpose
• resume or curriculum vitae
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. The history program requires a TOEFL iBT score of at least 90. A student whose native language is not English also must submit a copy of an article or research paper in the student's native or principal research language in addition to the English writing sample required of all students.

Students are required to submit a minimum of three email addresses of faculty or others qualified to speak to the student's suitability for graduate study in history. Letters of reference should be submitted by the recommenders in addition to the electronic reference form they are asked to complete.

The statement of purpose is to be addressed to the history admission committee and should explain the applicant's scholarly background and training, career goals, the primary field the applicant wishes to pursue, the proposed research specialization, and why the applicant wants to pursue graduate study at ASU; it should be about 500 words in length.

The writing sample, either published or unpublished, may be an article, a research paper, or any other extended sample of expository skill, and it must be no longer than 35 pages in length. Longer writing samples should not be submitted without first consulting the graduate director. Documents and files should not be password protected. Acceptable file types are .rtf, .pdf and .doc.

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• Identify and complete applications for funding opportunities that can support their research
• Demonstrate mastery of three domains of historical knowledge as well as display expertise in their proposed topic of study
• Accomplish meaningful contributions to the profession through accepted publications and presentations

Career Opportunities

Graduates possess the foundational skills in research, writing, and communication and fundamental training needed for careers in research, archival work, higher education, teaching, public history, government service, and a host of other areas in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.

They serve as first-rate historians, highly qualified instructors at two-year schools and universities, researchers and consultants for business and government, archivists, foreign service officers, management professionals, community organizers and public servants. Other career examples include:

• editorial and publishing professional
• K-12 school teacher
• museum director and staff
• nonprofit director
• university professor

Global Experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-5778

Political Science, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Political Science

The PhD program in political science is intended to develop scholars who demonstrate a high level of excellence in teaching and research as professional political scientists. It offers a variety of areas of specialization within and between the four main subfields of political science: American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory. Students interested in a political theory specialization should consult with the academic unit prior to application.

Program faculty have particular strengths in Latino and Latina politics, women and politics, ethnoreligious dynamics, political violence, human rights, political psychology and political economy.

The school is host to the Center for Latina/os and American Politics Research, the Future Security Initiative and an experimental lab. Faculty are also affiliated with other centers at ASU, such as the Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab; the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict; the Melikian Center for Russian, Eurasian and East European Studies; as well as the Center for the Study of Economic Liberty. Many faculty members are active in collaborative interdisciplinary research at ASU and with scholars at other universities, and they have won major grants and awards, as have the school's doctoral students.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (3 credit hours) POS 503 Empirical Political Inquiry (3)

Electives and Research (69 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) POS 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information A maximum of 12 credit hours of approved coursework outside the department but within ASU may count toward the required 84 credit hours.

Coursework beyond the 12-credit-hour maximum may be taken outside the department with permission of both the director of Graduate Studies and the faculty advisor.

When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this degree. If students do not have a previously awarded master's degree, the 30 hours of coursework is made up of electives and research to reach the required 84 credit hours.

Also required is a formal oral defense of the dissertation and a written comprehensive examination in the major field.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation
• list of political science courses taken
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

To assist in evaluating all candidates, the applicant should list titles and related information for all previous undergraduate and graduate courses or coursework in political science or related fields. The file must be saved in a .pdf, .doc, .rtf or .txt format and uploaded with the online graduate admission application. The information should be in a table with the following column headings: Course Title, Undergrad Credit Hours, Graduate Credit Hours, Grade, Institution, Year.

Undergraduate coursework in political science is not a prerequisite for admission. However, applicants to the doctoral program should have a basic understanding of elementary statistics and the undergraduate content of the political science fields of specialization that they wish to study. Students without this background should allow sufficient time to acquire it.

The personal statement (one to three pages) should describe the areas of political science the applicant wishes to study, post-graduation goals, and why the School of Politics and Global Studies is the best fit for the applicant. Applicants may also mention any particular faculty members with whom they are interested in working and why, as well as provide context for any discrepancies in their educational background.

The writing sample is typically a previously written research or other similar paper that best demonstrates the applicants critical thinking and writing skills in political science or a related field. There is not a length requirement for the writing sample, but it should be of sufficient level to allow the admissions committee to evaluate the applicant's knowledge and skills.

Students are expected to take courses for the first four semesters that will prepare them for comprehensive exams by the beginning of their fifth semester.  Each subfield has required methods courses, research courses, and core seminars for major and minor fields and these must be included on the IPOS. The faculty advisor and the student will set timelines for course completion and exams, bearing in mind the goal of being prepared to take comprehensive exams by the beginning of the fifth semester at ASU. 

A minimum of 84 hours is required.

Core Courses (3 credits)

POS 503 - Empirical Political Inquiry

Research methods and techniques of the discipline, emphasizing empirical foundations and analytic methods employed in subfields.

Electives and Research (69 credits – 39 if previous MA applied to program)

If your field is American Politics:

• POS 603 - Polimetrics I
• POS 604 - Polimetrics II
• POS 530 - American Politics
• Three elective courses in subfield

If you field is Comparative Politics:

• POS 550 - Comparative Politics

If your field is International Relations:

• POS 560 - International Relations
• POS 604 – Polimetrics II or approved Methods course

Culminating Experience (12 credits)

POS 799 – Dissertation

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Program graduates have a strong track record of obtaining positions in academic, public and private sectors. The program works closely with students so they have the opportunity and tools needed to achieve their career goals. The doctoral program provides advanced education for students preparing for teaching, research or applied careers in political science in government, nonprofits and the private sector.

Career examples include:

• campaign consultant
• campaign strategist
• data analyst
• research specialist
• tenure-track or instructional faculty in political science

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-8563

Doctoral degrees

In the u.s. for education.

—U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools 2023

Lead, inspire, and improve education

Doctoral programs at Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College prepare education leaders, scholars and innovators. Our EdD program prepares leader-practitioners to make evidence-based decisions that improve the performance of education organizations and systems. Our PhD programs empower scholars to create knowledge and insight into important questions about teaching, learning and the impact of education policy. 

Doctoral degrees that prepare you to lead and inspire, and to improve education

Through its doctoral degree programs, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College prepares education leaders, scholars and innovators with evidence-based coursework drawing on more than $60 million of annual research expenditures.

Two PhDs — in Learning, Literacies and Technologies; and Educational Policy and Evaluation — empower scholars to create knowledge and insight into important questions about teaching, learning and the impact of education policy. And an award-winning Doctor of Education degree prepares leader-practitioners to make evidence-based decisions that improve the performance of education organizations and systems.

We're here to help!

Contact us for assistance..

  [email protected]

Anthropology, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Anthropology

The School of Human Evolution and Social Change is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a PhD in the classic fields of anthropology:

• archaeology
• bioarchaeology
• evolutionary anthropology
• sociocultural anthropology

It is also an ideal environment for students who want to combine these approaches and other disciplines to explore specific issues or research questions within a transdisciplinary context. The flexible graduate curricula are designed to encourage students to design innovative plans of study in order to pursue their interests while receiving broad training in key areas. The anthropology faculty actively engage with faculty in other disciplines, including:

• applied mathematics
• environmental economics
• epidemiology
• formal modeling
• sustainability
• technology and society
• urban planning

The training students receive in this program prepares them to become expert scholars who are able to contribute not only to their chosen field but also to finding solutions to humankind's greatest challenges. This program provides training in data analysis and research design within the context of human evolution, archaeology and the wider field of anthropology. Through anthropological coursework, students learn how to ask important questions about the human species and employ statistics to analyze and extract meaning from data. Students will learn to appreciate humanity's place in nature and the long history of human societal change.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Students entering with a master's degree in a related field may be granted up to 30 credit hours toward the 84 credit hours required for the doctorate. This leaves 30 credit hours of coursework, 12 credit hours of research and 12 credit hours of dissertation (54 credit hours total) to be earned post-admission.

Students entering without a master's degree must earn an additional 30 hours of graduate credit, produce a research portfolio which is formally evaluated by a faculty committee, and present that research in a public forum before continuing on in the later stage of the doctorate.

All students must maintain a GPA of 3.20 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in their courses and complete degree requirements per the program's satisfactory progress policy.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement outlining educational and professional goals
• current curriculum vitae or resume
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Undergraduate coursework in anthropology is not a prerequisite for admission but is generally advisable. Students may be admitted without such a background and may be required to acquire knowledge of general anthropology in a manner to be specified at the time of admission.

Applicants also may submit with their application materials an optional scholarly writing sample not to exceed 30 double-spaced pages.

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The demand in the job market for people with an anthropology background is stimulated by a growing need for researchers and analysts with keen thinking skills who can manage, evaluate and interpret large amounts of data. As the many spheres of human interaction expand globally, people trained in anthropology are increasingly sought-after for their broad, holistic knowledge and perspectives, which are the hallmarks of anthropology. Some career opportunities include:

• acting as legal advocates in international cases
• analyzing and proposing policies
• conducting postgraduate academic research
• consulting for private and public organizations
• curating cultural resources
• directing nonprofit organizations
• directing programs in the private or public sector
• managing culture or heritage resources in private or public sectors
• modeling infectious diseases
• planning communities

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-6215

Majors and Degree Programs

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ASU degrees

A degree from Arizona State University is an investment in your future. U.S. News & World Report ranks 82 ASU degree programs as top 25 in the nation , with 37 of those in the top 10 . Programs are taught by professors who are leaders in their fields and are there to support your academic success. ASU offers more than 800 degree programs in a wide range of studies that prepare you to excel wherever you go in life — start exploring to see which degree is the best fit for you.

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Arizona State University offers options for where and how you want to learn.

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Being accredited means an accrediting agency ensures that a school maintains a high level of academic quality and standards. Accreditation is important to you as a student because it guarantees that the institution you are attending is reputable and will provide you with a high-caliber education.

Family and Human Development, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Family and Human Development

The PhD program in family and human development is devoted to the study of families, children and youth. The program's research, teaching and service have direct meaning in the lives of children and adults and for their families and communities.

The faculty share a common commitment to high-quality research that both increases the basic understanding of human and family development and has the potential to contribute to the improvement of the lives of children and families.

Applications open September 1st and are due by December 1st to begin the program the following fall. Admissions made for the fall semester only.

The Ph.D. program in Family and Human Development is designed to train researchers in developmental and family science. Students take core courses in family sciences, human development, research methodology, statistics, and diversity. The aims of the program are to train students to become researchers with an area of specialization in Family and Human Development. Graduate students are expected to develop competencies in research methods and in theoretical orientations relevant to their area of study.

A minimum of 85 hours is required.

Courses and Electives

Training in Family and Human Development involves coursework in theory, research methods, statistics, diversity, and areas related to students' own interests or specialization. The program of study is developed in collaboration with one's doctoral advisor/mentor. The program follows a mentorship model of training. Students work closely with faculty members to develop research skills through involvement in projects.

Additional Information

Financial support, sanford school graduate student financial support.

The Sanford School is dedicated to supporting our graduate students. As such, we provide many different funding opportunities to our graduate students. 

Assistantships

Currently, the programs in family and human development and sociology have several teaching assistantship (TA) and research assistantship (RA) positions. These positions require that recipients work 10-20 hours per week for faculty to whom they are assigned for the period August-May. The TA is responsible for contacting the faculty to whom they are assigned by the day their contract begins, approximately August 16. Selection of TAs and their assignments is a complex process and is based on meeting the needs of the courses, faculty, students and funding requirements.

Responsibilities

Teaching assistant responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Grading class assignments.
• Developing teaching materials.
• Conferring with students.
• Recording and posting grades.
• Assisting with preparation of tests.
• Proctoring exams for faculty.
• Abstracting research articles.
• Updating bibliographies.
• In addition, TAs will give classroom presentations as requested.

RAs work with faculty members on research projects. Responsibilities are determined by the faculty member in consultation with the student.

Qualifications

TAs and RAs must maintain a GPA of 3.00 or above, be admitted with regular status to a graduate program, and must complete six hours of graduate work each semester towards on their program of study. Preference is given to those graduate students enrolled in the family and human development or sociology program in the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics.

Specializations

In addition to the general doctoral degree track in Family and Human Development, students can focus and organize their elective coursework to reflect areas of specialization. At the present time, three areas of specialization are available: Quantitative Methodology, Social and Emotional Development (SED), and Diverstiy and Inclusion Science (DISI). Graduate students may concentrate their studies in one of these areas or may combine two areas to meet their specific research interests.

Diversity and Inclusion Science (DISI)

The PhD in Family and Human Development offers a training specialization for students interested in theoretical, methodological, and research perspectives on children, youth, and families from underrepresented groups. This specialization aligns with a larger Diversity and Inclusion Science Initiative (DISI) in the Sanford School. Students who choose the Diversity and Inclusion Science specialization will take two required courses. One focuses on theory and methods as they apply to the study of underrepresented groups (CDE 598: Introduction to Theory and Methods in the Study of Diversity and Inclusion Science) and a second course involves the in-depth exploration of issues related to study, biases, and interactions with underrepresented groups (CDE 598: Interpersonal Interactions and Perspectives in the Study of Diversity and Inclusion Science). Students who have interest in underrepresented populations in the field of human development and family studies, broadly defined by socioeconomic status, gender, race, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability/health status, or other populations that are underrepresented, are encouraged to specialize in Diversity and Inclusion Science.

18 hours total Core Courses

REQUIRED = 6 hours (instructor approval required)

• CDE 598: Introduction to Theory and Methods in Diversity and Inclusion Science . This course will provide an overview of theoretical frameworks and methodological issues as they apply to the study of underrepresented populations in our field.
• CDE 598: Interpersonal Interactions and Perspectives in Diversity and Inclusion Science . This course will explore interpersonal experiences, biases, and strategies for working with different populations that are underrepresented in the field.

ELECTIVES = 12 hours

 *The below list is not exhaustive.

Sanford School Elective Courses

• CDE 610: Gender Development
• CDE 598: Latino Families and Children
• CDE 598: Culture and Biology
• FAS 591: Racial Discrimination and Racial Identity
• CDE 598: Poverty
• CDE 534: Risk and Resilience
• CDE/FAS 590: Readings and Conference (1 to 3 credits)**
• CDE/FAS 592/792: Research (1 to 3 credits)**

Elective Courses from other units

• AFR 598: Women’s International and Human Rights
• AFR 598: Peoples and Cultures of Africa
• APA: Graduate Level Courses in Asian American Psychology
• AIS 503: Contemporary Issues of American Indian Nations
• JUS 560: Women, Law, and Social Control
• JUS 691: Sexuality and Social Justice
• JUS 598: The Social Construction of Disability
• PSY 591: Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination
• WST 502: Gender Research Methods
• WST 602: Mapping Intersections Gender
• WST 603: Engendering Methodology

*Additional electives will be considered by the Diversity and Inclusion Science faculty as they apply to this area of specialization. Students should submit the course syllabus and a memo explaining the fit of the course within the students’ diversity science specialization for courses not listed above.

**Students are encouraged to take up to three elective credits to propose innovative teaching, service, and research activities that contribute to inclusion and diversity science. Such projects will require supervision by a faculty member and can range from contributing to a course or seminar (e.g., lecture, activities), conducting a case study, supervising an undergraduate or conducting an applied project to enhance one’s experience with an underrepresented group, or developing a manuscript or research project. Innovative ideas proposed by doctoral students are welcome.

Completion of this specialization requires that at least 9 hours of the requirements be taken within the Sanford School. All courses counting toward specialization must be completed with a minimum grade of B-.

For additional information, please contact:

Kimberly Updegraff DISI Coordinator Email: [email protected] (480) 965-6669

Quantitative Methodology

The Sanford School (SSFD) offers specialized training for students interested in the study of Quantitative Methodology. The Quantitative Methodology specialization is open to any doctoral student in SSFD. Students choosing the Quantitative Methodology specialization will undertake in-depth study of statistical and measurement methodologies that offer great utility for research in human development, family studies, sociology, and education, among other areas. Faculty and students interested in quantitative methods study, evaluate, and develop statistical and measurement methods applicable to investigating issues in family and human development, sociology, and related fields. Students whose primary interest is in measurement, methods, and statistical modeling should complete the Quantitative Methodology specialization, along with additional coursework and research focused on quantitative methods. Students whose primary interest is in other substantive areas within Family and Human Development or Sociology but who would like to develop strength in measurement and statistical analysis should also consider the Quantitative Methodology specialization.

How to Apply:

The Quantitative Methodology specialization is open to any doctoral student in the Sanford School. Prospective students should apply either through the PhD in Family and Human Development program or the PhD in Sociology program. Please see the Graduate Handbook: Program in Family and Human Development or the Graduate Handbook: Program in Sociology for full descriptions of the application process. Existing students may apply for the Quantitative Methodology Specialization by completing this form.

Faculty affiliated with the Quantitative Methodology Specialization and their methodological interests are as follows:

Dawn DeLay – social network analysis, dyadic analysis, interdependent (nonindependent) data, and longitudinal social relationship models

Masumi Iida – multilevel modeling of longitudinal and dyadic data

Justin Jager – structural equation modeling, latent growth modeling, pattern-centered analysis (e.g., latent class analysis and growth-mixture modeling)

Roy Levy – psychometrics, item response theory, structural equation modeling, Bayesian networks, Bayesian inference, and assessment design

Holly O'Rourke - mediation analysis and statistical performance of mediation models, longitudinal mediation models, latent change score models, structural equation models for longitudinal data, statistical power

Connor Sheehan – Longitudinal methods, bio-statistics, demographic techniques, event history analysis.

Monica Tsethlikai - structural equation modeling, Bayesian statistics for small samples, item response theory

Marilyn Thompson – structural equation modeling, factor analysis, measurement invariance, multilevel modeling of longitudinal and clustered data

Natalie Eggum – longitudinal data analyses within a structural equation model framework

The Quantitative Methodology specialization requires 18 hours total:

REQUIRED = 6 hours

*Requirements assume Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences I, Lab I, Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences II, and Lab II as prerequisites

• SSFD's Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis for the Social Sciences (introduction to matrix algebra, principal components analyses, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, fundamentals of structural equation modeling)
• SSFD's Structural Equation Modeling for the Social Sciences (theory and application of structural equation modeling; path analysis, latent regression models, multiple group analysis, models for longitudinal data)

*The below list is not exhaustive. The Quantitative Methodology specialization elective hours can overlap with courses taken toward a degree program’s statistics electives requirements. Note that Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences I and Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences II courses do NOT count as an elective for the Quantitative Methodology specialization.

• Pattern-Centered Analysis
• Bayesian Methods
• Advanced Bayesian Methods
• Mediation Analysis
• Experimental and Quasi-experimental Designs for Research

Measurement

• Item Response Theory

Statistical Methods for Small Group and Longitudinal Designs

• Analysis of Dyadic Interaction
• Structural Equation Modeling with Longitudinal Data
• Latent Growth and Mixture Models with Longitudinal Data

Statistical Methods for Large and Complex Samples

• Social Network Analysis
• Large/Secondary Dataset Analysis

Appropriate substitutions will be considered by the Methodology faculty if required courses are not offered within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., due to faculty sabbaticals or other leaves of absence). Completion of the Quantitative Methodology specialization requires that at least 12 hours of the requirements be taken within the Sanford School (this does not include the introduction sequence). All courses counting toward the Quantitative Methodology specialization must be completed with a minimum grade of B-.

Natalie Eggum, Coordinator, Quantitative Methodology Specialization Email: [email protected]

Social and Emotional Development (SED)

The PhD in Family and Human Development offers a training specialization for students interested in the study of social and emotional development (SED) across the life span. Students choosing the SED specialization will learn about contemporary theories, methodologies, and bodies of empirical research pertaining to a range of issues in broadly defined adaptive and maladaptive processes in social and emotional development. Students may also become involved in research in other disciplines that informs the understanding of aspects of social-emotional development. Examples of such disciplines include family dynamics, intervention research, social networks, neuroscience, psychophysiology, and developmental psychopathology.

The SED specialization requires 18 hours total:

• CDE 598 Social and Emotional Development
• CDE 612 Peer Relationships
• CDE 534 Risk and Resilience
• CDE 612 Gender Development
• CDE 634 Prevention and Child Development
• EDP 691 Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
• CDE 698 Social-Emotional Development in Atypical Children
• PSY 578 Development and Psychopathology
• CDE/SOC 598 Social Networks
• CDE 598 Play and Development
• CDE/FAS 590 Readings and Conference (3 hours only)
• CDE 598 Bullying/Aggression
• FAS 598 Parenting
• Others as approved

Gary Ladd, SED Coordinator Email: [email protected] (480) 727‐6621

Each specialization builds on the basic PhD program in Family and Human Development but provides students with focused coursework and training in areas of strength within the unit. Opportunities to learn from expert faculty within and outside of the Sanford School are reflected in the specializations.

Students do not have to declare a specialization, but those who do will follow the guidelines for the specialization to ensure that training is guided and coherent. Each specialization is designed to enhance students' training and research, such that a programmatic area of expertise is developed.

Working with Faculty

The Core FHD Graduate Program Faculty are primarily responsible for training FHD doctoral students. In addition, students may also work with other Sanford School faculty members in Family and Human Development and Sociology. See the list below of research faculty members and their interests.

All faculty members are eligible to serve as chairs of master’s committees.

In addition, because ASU sponsors a graduate faculty model, faculty from academic units outside of the Sanford School may also be eligible to serve on the committees of FHD doctoral students.

For a current list of our eligible graduate faculty, please see https://graduateapps.asu.edu/graduate-faculty

Program Faculty

How to apply, how to apply, how do i apply to the doctoral program in family and human development.

Applications are due by December 1st to begin the program the following fall. Admissions made for the fall semester only.

Follow these steps to complete the application process.

1. Graduate College Application

• Complete the Graduate College at ASU application at https://admission.asu.edu/contact

Send official materials to Graduate Admission Services https://admission.asu.edu/graduate/apply

ASU transcripts do not need to be sent

2. Other required supplemental materials

Submit all of the following materials online via the Graduate College Application at https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp

• Resume or curriculum vitae. Must summarize the academic and employment experiences of the applicant.
• State your professional goals and reasons for desiring to enroll in this program.
• Describe your strengths that will help you succeed in the program and in reaching your professional goals.
• Describe, in detail, your research experience (include a description of your master's thesis if applicable). Describe the relevant responsibilities you have held.
• Indicate your personal research interests as specifically as possible.
• Identify two or three faculty whose research interest matches your own. Explain why you believe these are good matches (view faculty interests).
• Include any additional information that you feel will help the committee evaluate your application.
• Three letters of recommendation. Must include at least one from an instructor at the applicant's institution where undergraduate or graduate work was completed. These letters should be from people who know you as a student or in a professional capacity. Letters from family members or friends do not meet this criterion.

As part of the online graduate application you will submit the names and work email addresses for your three recommenders. Your recommenders will be sent instructions on how to electronically send their recommendations.

3. International Students – Required additional materials

International applicants must also meet all of the requirements and supply all of the information requested by the Graduate College at https://admission.asu.edu/international/graduate-apply .

How are admissions decisions made?

Admission to the Doctoral Program in Family and Human Development is competitive. Applicants will be short-listed based on a review of all submitted materials, including official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work, verbal, quantitative, statement of goals relevant to the doctoral program, three letters of recommendation, resume or CV, and complete application for admission to the Graduate College. Those applicants who make the short-list will be invited to visit in the spring for an interview. Final admissions decisions will be made following the interview.

Students are admitted for the fall semester only.

If you have any questions about the online application procedures or about the program, please contact [email protected]

Degree Requirements

85 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (1 credit hour) FAS 503 Academic Professional Development (1)

Other Requirements (26 credit hours) CDE 531 Theoretical Issues in Child Development (3) FAS 500 Research Methods (3) FAS 513 Introduction to Regression and Linear Models (4) FAS 514 Advanced Regression and Nonlinear Models (4) FAS 531 Theoretical Issues in Family Sciences (3) two graduate-level courses in advanced methods or statistics (6) one graduate-level diversity course (3)

Research (6 credit hours) FAS or CDE 592 Research (6)

Electives (40 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) FAS or CDE 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information Postbaccalaureate (students entering after the bachelor's degree): Of the 85 credit hours for a postbaccalaureate program, six credit hours are dedicated to an empirical project, and 12 credit hours are for the dissertation.

Post-master's (students entering after the master's degree): When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this credential. Of the 55 credit hours of the post-master's degree program, 12 credit hours are for the dissertation.

Electives should be chosen in consultation with and approval of the advisor. Electives may be selected within or outside the Sanford School. All elective courses must be 500 level or higher.

Substitutions for all courses listed under other requirements may be made per department approval.

For the diversity course requirement, students should refer to the department for a list of approved courses.

For the advanced methods or statistics requirement, students take two courses with content that advances beyond Quantitative Methods I and II.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• a resume or curriculum vitae
• statement of goals relevant to the doctoral program
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

The personal statement must be four to six pages, double-spaced, and address the applicant's professional goals, the applicant's strengths that will enable them to succeed in the program, a detailed description of past research experience, relevant professional experiences or responsibilities, and specific personal research interests. The applicant also must identify two or three faculty members whose research interests match their own and explain why they are good matches.

Three letters of recommendation are required. These must include at least one from an instructor at the institution where the applicant completed their undergraduate or graduate work. The letters should be from people who know the applicant in a professional or academic capacity; letters from family members or friends do not meet this criterion.

Students should see the program website for full application deadlines.

Core Courses (25 credits)

FAS 531: Theoretical Issues in Family Sciences CDE 531: Theoretical Issues in Child Development

Diversity Course FAS 500: Research Methods ANOVA Multiple Regression

2 Advanced Statistics Courses FAS 503: Professional Development

Elective Courses (42 credits)

Optional specializations include Diversity and Inclusion Science, Quantitative Methodology, and Social and Emotional Development.

Student will work with their advisor to identify elective courses in the area of expertise that the student would like to develop.

Research (6 credits)

FAS or CDE 592

Empirical Portfolio Project: Students who enter the program with their bachelor's degree will complete a portfolio project in the form of an empirical project to earn their master's in passing. The empirical portfolio project consists of original work on a specific research problem. The problem is decided upon by the student in consultation with the supervisory committee chair. After selection of a research problem, the student develops a research proposal and makes a formal presentation of it to the supervisory committee for critical review and formal acceptance (called the Portfolio Proposal Meeting). The portfolio project can be formatted as a traditional document (i.e., including an introduction, literature review, method, plan of analyses/results, and discussion) or as an empirical article in the format specified for empirical articles in the relevant current edition of the publication manual by the American Psychological Association .

Comprehensive Exam: The comprehensive exam fulfills a number of purposes. On one level, this exam allows students to independently demonstrate the breadth and depth of their knowledge, their ability to think critically, and their readiness to write their dissertation proposal to their supervisory committee. On another level, comprehensive exams should challenge students to utilize and integrate what they have learned in their coursework, and to independently develop a research plan that potentially will sustain their investigative efforts past their doctoral dissertation and into the early years of their career. There are two format options for the exam: students select either (a) grant application or (b) psychological bulletin article.

Dissertation (12 credits)

FAS or CDE 799

Dissertation: The doctoral dissertation must be the product of original scholarship and must make a significant contribution to knowledge in the field and demonstrate the student's mastery of systematic research methods. The dissertation should be completed using one of two formats: (a) traditional dissertation proposal; or (b) two or three original and distinct empirical articles. For the traditional dissertation option, the prospectus should include a pertinent review of the literature, statement of the problem, the purpose of the proposed study, description of the research design and methods, and discussion of the specific means by which the data will be analyzed (i.e., an introduction and literature review, method, and plan of analysis). For the empirical articles option, the prospectus should include an introduction that provides the broad theoretical rational, statement of the problem and how it will be divided into 2 or 3 studies, and integration of the 2 to 3 planned studies.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, learning outcomes.

• Apply research methods, including study design, measurement, and analyses in their final exam and dissertation.
• Apply their understanding of theoretical perspectives to the field of child and family development in their final project and/or final exam.
• Able to implement a major independent research project that makes a unique contribution to the field of family and human development.

Career Opportunities

Graduates possess knowledge and skills necessary for promoting healthy individual and family development as they study the factors that promote successful relationships and positive outcomes for individuals, families and communities across the life span. Graduates often pursue careers working with children, youth and adults in human, social and government agencies or take on leadership roles as researchers in a university, in a public or privately funded agency, in an industry or in government.

Career examples include:

• community support program officials
• government agency administrators and professionals
• instructors
• nonprofit organization administrators
• research professionals

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-6875

Neuroscience, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system. Studies in neuroscience can be multifaceted and combine physiology, anatomy, molecular biology, developmental biology, cytology, computer science and mathematical modeling to understand the fundamental and emergent properties of the many different cells in the brain and how they interact and coregulate each other.

Students integrate several levels of analysis --- molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral and cognitive --- to investigate basic, translational and clinical questions about the relationship between the brain and behavior.

The PhD program in neuroscience includes aspects of graduate-level training from many different units on campus as well as from the program's partner institutions distributed across the greater Phoenix area. Partner institutions include Barrow Neurological Institute, Translational Genomics Research Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine and Sun Health Research Institute.

Interdisciplinary Partners

The program’s interdisciplinary faculty consists of people from various schools and departments at ASU, and from outside organizations. Therefore, some faculty members are not physically located on any of the ASU campuses.

• Barrow Neurological Institute
• College of Medicine-Phoenix, Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences
• Translational Genomics Research Institute

Program Faculty   PhD Students

Courses and electives, school of biological and health systems engineering.

• BME 521 Neural Basis of Motor Control (3)
• BME 532 Prosthetic and Rehabilitation Engineering (3)
• BME 561 Clinical Neuroscience (3)
• BME 568 Neural Plasticity and Neurorehabilitation (3)

School of Life Sciences

• BIO 451/551: Cell Biotechnology Laboratory (4)
• BIO 465/598: Neurophysiology (3)
• BIO 515: Science, Technology and Public Affairs (3)
• NEU/BIO 598: Neural Development (3)
• MCB 555: Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology (3)
• BIO 543: Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3)
• NEU 598: Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Aging Brain (3)
• NEU 598: Genetics and Genomics of Behavior (3)
• NEU 591: Biotechnology Viruses as Tools (3)
• NEU 591: Data Analysis and Visualization in R (3)
• BIO 514: Statistical Models for Biology (4)

School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences

• APM 530: Mathematical Cell Physiology (3)
• APM 531: Mathematical Neuroscience I (3)
• APM 532: Mathematical Neuroscience II (3)
• APM 598: Introduction to Deep Neural Networks (3)
• APM 494/598: Data Analysis in Neuroscience (3)

Department of Psychology

• PSY 591: Neuroanatomy (4)
• PSY 528: Sensation and Perception (3)
• PSY 591: Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (3)
• PSY 591: Neuropsychopharmacology (3)
• PSY/NEU 598: Visual Cognitive Neuroscience (3)
• PSY 591: Neuroscience of Attention (3)
• PSY 591: Behavioral Neuroscience of Women's Health (3)
• PSY 591: Advanced Neurobiology of Cognition (3)
• NEU 591: Neurobiology of Social Behavior (3)
• NEU 598: Brain and Emotion (3)

College of Health Solutions - Speech and Hearing Sciences

• SHS 513 Neurophysiology of the Auditory System (3)
• SHS 519 Auditory Pathologies and Disorders (3)
• SHS 545 Speech Perception by the Hearing Impaired (2)
• SHS 567: Neural Bases of Communication Disorders (3)
• SHS 575: Aphasia and Related Neurogenic Language Disorders (3)
• SHS 576: Neuromotor Speech Disorders (3)
• SHS 598: Health Neuroscience (3)

Neuroscience PhD Student Highlights

Joanna Winstone

Congratulations to Joanna Winstone, the Velazquez lab, and TGen collaborators for their recent publication! 

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-science/2022/08/29/az-researchers-want-to-know-if-glyphosate-exposure-impacts-brain/10303589002/

Samantha Harker

Congratulations for recently becoming one of 25 students in the US that were awarded the Quad Fellowship! (Left-to-right: Dr. Candace Lewis (co-mentor), Samantha Harker, and Dr. Blair Braden (co-mentor))

Link: https://news.asu.edu/20221209-global-engagement-2-asu-students-receive-prestigious-quad-fellowships

Samantha Scott

Congratulations for publishing your recent research in Dr. Neisewander’s laboratory examining the utility of a serotonin 1B receptor agonist, CP94253, in a model of psychostimulant use disorders!

Link: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbeh.2022.1020146

Application and admission information

How to apply.

Applications open September 1 for admission in Fall of the following year. The application deadline is December 1 . We accept applications for Fall semesters only. We cannot guarantee that applications received after the December 1 deadline will be considered for admission.

All applicants must apply by filling out ASU's Graduate Admissions application. All application materials must be submitted through the application or to Graduate Admissions directly. Please do not mail or email any documents to the School of Life Sciences. 

Required materials and information include the following:

• 1-2 page personal statement
• An up to date CV or resume
• The names of relevant SOLS faculty you have been in touch with who you might be interested in being supervised by
• Unofficial transcripts and English proficiency test scores (if applicable)
• The names and emails of at least 3 recommenders to write you letters of recommendation

Application review process and timeline

Following the December 1 deadline, faculty will begin reviewing applications. Applicants should monitor their My ASU priority tasks to ensure there are no missing materials in their application.

Faculty will decide which applicants they would like to invite to our Graduate Recruitment Weekends (GRWs), typically held in February. Applicants will hear from the School of Life Sciences in January if they are invited to participate in the GRWs.

Admission decisions will begin after the GRWs, and applicants typically receive final decisions by April 1.

Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission include the following:

• Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• There are other ways to demonstrate English proficiency beyond the tests, so please refer to ASU's English proficiency webpage to review how you might satisfy requirements

Desired qualifications typically seen in competitive candidates:

• Research experience and a letter of recommendation from a faculty research supervisor
• English proficiency scores that meet these teaching assistant language proficiency requirements

Please note that the GRE is not required.

Students offered admission to a PhD program in the School of Life Sciences will typically receive a funding offer as well. While individual funding offers may differ to some degree, they typically include teaching assistant and/or research assistant positions each semester (summer optional) for 5 years. These positions provide financial coverage through the following:

• A standard salary stipend paid biweekly
• Tuition remission covering enrollment in 6-18 credit hours for fall and spring semesters and 1-14 credit hours for summer semesters
• Health insurance coverage

To discover more, check out the ASU Graduate College's funding opportunities !

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (8 credit hours) BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research in Life Sciences (1) NEU 556 Human Systems Neuroscience (4) NEU 576 Advanced Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (3)

Electives or Research (58 credit hours)

Other Requirements (6 credit hours) NEU 558 Neuroscience Journal Club (3) NEU 591 Seminar (3)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) NEU 799 Dissertation (12)

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Regular admission may be granted to applicants who have achieved the minimum cumulative GPA requirement or better in the last two years of work leading to a bachelor's degree and who are competitive in the applicant pool as evidenced by letters of recommendation. Particular attention is paid to research experience and overall preparation in problem-solving abilities as evidenced by previous coursework and research experiences.

There are no specific undergraduate course requirements other than those implied by the degree requirements described above. Most students are expected to have had coursework in biology, chemistry and math.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• academic record form
• personal statement
• curriculum vitae or resume
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Research experience is a desired qualification.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, learning outcomes.

• Effectively communicate neuroscientific concepts, both orally and in writing.
• Execute an independent research plan of their own design that tests hypotheses related to neuroscience.
• Apply core neuroscientific concepts to address fundamental questions regarding nervous system function and associated pathologies.

Career Opportunities

A doctorate in neuroscience provides strong preparation for academic careers at every level, from community colleges to research universities. Graduates also apply the skills and knowledge obtained in this program in government careers in federal and state agencies, in industry (biotech, medical or pharmaceutical), as well as in nongovernmental organizations.

Career examples include:

• health care scientists in academic, private and industrial labs
• principal investigators in government labs and nonprofit organizations
• professors or instructors in universities and colleges
• science teachers in elementary and high schools

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-1768

Manufacturing Engineering, PhD

The manufacturing engineering doctoral degree program provides students with the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully meet the most difficult challenges of modern manufacturing industries on a global scale.

Program description

The PhD program in manufacturing engineering provides students with the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully meet the most difficult challenges of modern manufacturing industries on a global scale. The program involves faculty and industry members together with a hands-on philosophy to education and research, that provides students with various career development opportunities.

Career outlook

With the doctoral degree, graduates typically seek research-oriented academic appointments or industrial research and development positions.

Professionals with a doctorate in manufacturing engineering have substantial opportunities at all levels in manufacturing engineering in research and development at companies, research institutes and national laboratories (e.g., DOD, DOE, NASA). Relevant careers and related titles include the following:

• industrial engineers
• manufacturing engineers
• materials engineers
• materials scientists
• mechanical engineers
• mechatronics engineers

Admission requirements

Applicants who meet the following requirements are eligible to apply.

• a minimum of a BS or MS in manufacturing engineering or a closely related discipline from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or from appropriately credentialed institutions in other countries
• a minimum of 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = A) in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor’s degree, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = A) in a applicable master’s degree program

Application process

The admission process begins by applying for graduate admission . The application requires that following items must be submitted:

• Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose: Submit online a 300- to 500-word statement of purpose describing your motivation and rationale for obtaining a PhD in the Manufacturing Engineering program at Arizona State University and how it relates to your long-term career goals.
• Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
• Graduate admission application and application fee
• International applicants must also meet the  English proficiency requirements , as defined by Graduate Admissions. Please be sure to review the  TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE score requirements , as your application will not be processed without valid proof of English proficiency.

Graduate faculty and funding opportunities

More information.

ASU degree page

Schedule an advising appointment

Degree requirements

A minimum of 84 semester credit hours are required for the PhD degree, distributed as follows:

• A maximum of 30 credit hours of coursework from a previous master’s degree in engineering or a related field may be applied to the PhD.
• Four core courses, plus Seminar totaling 15 credit hours.
• 12 credit hours, at minimum, of MFG 792 Research
• 12 credit hours of MFG 799, Dissertation
• 42 credit hours, Electives or Research

Application deadlines

August 15  Spring semester (January) January 15  Fall semester (August)

These are priority deadlines. Applications submitted after this deadline may still be considered.

Course requirements

All students enrolled in the PhD in Manufacturing Engineering must complete the required courses. Additional curriculum details are available in the PhD Manufacturing Engineering program handbook (linked left, below).

• EGR 520: Engineering Analysis I
• EGR 602: Principles of Independent Research Choose two research-related courses in consultation with faculty advisor. Examples below:
• MFG 522: Engineering Statistics
• MFG 523: Artificial Intelligence for Smart Manufacturing
• MFG 574: Polymer Science and Additive Manufacturing
• MFG 581: Simulating Manufacturing Systems
• MFG 582: Metal Additive Manufacturing Complete three semesters of MFG 691 Seminar (1 credit each, 3 credits total)

Additional coursework will fall into three categories: Electives, Research, Dissertation.

If a student needs additional preparation before taking one or more of the core courses, the required deficiency courses may not be used as part of the Plan of Study, although the grades received in these courses will be used in computing the overall GPA. Additionally, PhD programs of study are dependent on both the background and the chosen specialization of individual students, and preparation beyond the minimum core requirements is occasionally necessary.

[email protected]

Graduate Program Chair:  Dhruv Bhate

Graduate student resources

Academic calendar

Academic standards

Graduate College Policies

Resources and Forms

ASU business school launches first AI graduate degree program in the US

Artificial intelligence is an important business skill, says W. P. Carey Dean Ohad Kadan.

In this article published March 27, 2024, on BusinessBecause :

There is no doubt that artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a vital business skill. We are excited to meet the needs of students and employers through our new graduate degree program within our top-ranked information systems department.

– Ohad Kadan , Charles J. Robel Dean, W. P. Carey Distinguished Chair, and professor of finance

Latest news

• Master of real estate development program encourages connections between students, faculty, community Being an alum of the W. P. Carey School of Business means being part of a community for life.

Shape the Future of ASU Graduate Housing: Take the GradSPACE Survey!

Introduction.

According to the 2024 Fall Enrollment Report, Arizona State University's graduate student population is flourishing. This esteemed community encompasses over 31,000 on-campus and online learners. The Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) serves as the official voice of ASU graduate students. It acknowledges this population's challenges in securing affordable and convenient housing within the Greater Phoenix Area.

GPSA President McCaughan recognizes that rising rent costs pose a significant hurdle for students on fixed incomes. The policy of GPSA’s Current Executive team prioritizes affordability, sustainability, wellness and inclusion. 

Understanding Graduate Student Needs

While ASU offers a vibrant on-campus experience, few housing options cater to the 14,419 students enrolled in an on-campus immersion program. Due to limited on-campus options, many graduate students opt to live off-campus. However, lengthy commutes to campus impact study time and well-being. Notably, a recent National Bureau of Economic Research study found a correlation between longer commutes and delays in degree completion.

The GradSPACE Survey: Your Voice Matters

Dedicated to advocating for the betterment of all ASU graduate students, GPSA has launched the GradSPACE survey. This initiative aims to gather data on your housing situation and preferences, regardless of where you currently live. By participating, you contribute to a comprehensive understanding of housing challenges faced by graduate students.

Survey Components

The GradSPACE survey will gather information on your current housing situation and preferences. Here's what you can expect:

• Current Housing Situation: Please indicate whether you currently reside on-campus, off-campus or in another arrangement.
• Rental Costs: Please share your monthly housing expenses, including rent and utilities.
• Commute Time: Please specify the round-trip commute distance to campus (for those off-campus).

To conclude the survey, we'd like to understand your preferences for future housing options. There will be the following question:

• Are you interested in on-campus housing designed for graduate students?

Building a Sustainable Future, Together

By participating in this brief survey, your valuable insights will help the GPSA advocate for solutions that address the graduate student housing challenges. Your feedback is critical in creating a more sustainable and supportive environment that fosters success.

Take the GradSPACE Survey Today!

ASU business school launches AI degree program

W. p. carey school graduate program accepting applications for fall 2024 admission.

Catherine Phillips is an MBA student in the W.P. Carey School of Business. The school is officially launching a new degree program — the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business (MS-AIB). ASU photo

Following Arizona State University’s groundbreaking announcement of the first university collaboration with OpenAI , the W. P. Carey School of Business is officially launching a new degree program — the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business (MS-AIB).

Backed by faculty from the Department of Information Systems, it is the first AI graduate degree program from a business school in the United States.

“There is no doubt that AI is quickly becoming a vital business skill. We are excited to meet the needs of students and employers through our new graduate degree program within our top-ranked information systems department,” said Ohad Kadan , Charles J. Robel Dean and W. P. Carey Distinguished Chair in Business.

The new W. P. Carey MS-AIB program, to be held on the Tempe campus, incorporates an applied curriculum and career coaching to prepare graduates for success in emerging roles across industries. Taught by world-renowned faculty, the MS-AIB degree will help students develop technical AI and professional skills needed to thrive in the constantly evolving landscape of technology and business. 

Allowing students to lead what’s next

The goal of the program is to equip leaders with a business-aligned framework and strategies for implementing AI — delivering both technical skills and business skills to design, deploy and apply AI mindfully in diverse business contexts.

“Students will learn to understand and plan for the implications and possibilities enabled by artificial intelligence, in addition to the importance of governance, ethics and principled innovation,” explained Pei-yu Chen , chair of the Department of Information Systems and Red Avenue Foundation Professor. Chen is also the co-director of the Center for AI and Data Analytics for Business and Society .

Students will complete the program able to:

• Analyze diverse business situations and apply AI to further business goals.
• Understand and effectively communicate the impact of AI transformations.
• Practice mindful AI and pay attention to ethics, bias, welfare, privacy and trust.
• Lead cross-functional conversations and collaboration for effective implementation.
• Advance their careers and solve pressing challenges for global businesses.

Learn more about the MS-AIB , now accepting applications for fall 2024 admission.

AI skill development a focus across programs

In addition to the groundbreaking new graduate program, the W. P. Carey School offers a host of ways for students to grow their understanding of AI and apply those skills to solve business problems. For example, students have the opportunity to select AI concentrations within the MBA and Master of Science in Information Systems Management (MS-ISM) programs. 

“W. P. Carey has been at the forefront of integrating AI into its academic programs, showcasing a commitment to leadership in AI education and its applications in business,” said Dan Mazzola , faculty director of the MS-ISM program. “The school's offerings of AI-focused degrees, alongside various AI-related certificates and concentrations, highlight its active role in shaping the conversation around AI and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in technology.”

W. P. Carey also offers a  certificate in artificial intelligence in business , which allows learners to train in the mechanics of this cutting-edge technology, design intelligent systems, learn how to harness these systems mindfully for value creation, and then how to embed them into business to transform organizational strategy and revolutionize business processes and operations. Credit completed in the certificate program can later be transferred toward several W. P. Carey master’s degrees.

By integrating AI into its core educational offerings and providing flexible learning opportunities tailored to various student needs, the W. P. Carey School aims to ensure its graduates are well equipped to fulfill the diverse and evolving career demands in AI-enabled organizations.

These programs each demonstrate W. P. Carey's long-standing dedication to preparing students for the evolving business landscape through a multifaceted educational approach.

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Geoffrey Smith isn’t joking around about his new hobby this April Fools' Day.  A clinical professor of finance at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, Smith recently completed…

Sun Devil 100 celebrates 10 years with largest class

The ASU Alumni Association has announced the induction of 171 exceptional alumni into the esteemed Sun Devil 100 Class of 2024, an annual awards program that recognizes the fastest-growing alumni-…

Inaugural ASU conference explores sustainable investing

According to Ivo Welch, "When we narrow our focus to (climate change) issues that are both rational and have plausible courses of action, there is remarkably little we disagree about.” Welch,…