PhD in Child and Family Studies

Doctoral Program Overview

PhD in Child and Family Studies

Erikson Institute is proud to announce the launch of our new, independent PhD program.

Erikson Institute has been approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to be the sole conferrer of a PhD in Child and Family Studies. APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2027 ARE NOW OPEN!

• The application deadline is January 15, 2027. No GRE required. Create an account at the application link to see all required application elements.
• Applicants may enter at either the post-Bachelor’s or post-Master’s level. The number of credits required will vary based on the entering degree and the amount of transfer credits, but program length is 5-6 years for all.
• The PhD funding model prioritizes affordability for working adults, without the need for university employment obligations or quitting your current job. Admitted students will receive a guaranteed Doctoral Scholars Award of at least 25% and up to 75%, with the average award expected to be 50%. Applicants may also stack on need-based scholarships (typically up to an additional 25%) through the traditional FAFSA process.
• Assuming no transfer credits, program cost is $86,897 for post-bac and $76,484 for post-master’s students. Transfer credits (up to 9 maximum from external institutions and 12 maximum for Erikson alums) will reduce costs accordingly at a per credit cost of $1,195.
• The program will be in-person, with residency within 100 miles of our Chicago campus required. Students must be able to come to campus twice per week for at least three years. Classes will be offered in the evenings.