Specialization in Family Policy
The specialization in family policy will enable the doctoral graduate to assess the impact of public and private policy on children and families and consequently on the larger society.
Depending on the interests and preparation of the student, specific issue areas may vary. The study of the history of family policy concerning children and families will provide a context for present policies and will clarify possibilities for the future.
Specialization Faculty
- William Bailey, Ph.D. (Texas Tech University), Professor, Human Environmental Sciences
- Tim Killian, (University of Missouri), Associate Professor, Human Environmental Sciences
- Sue Martin, Ph.D. (University of North Carolina), Professor, Human and Environmental Sciences
- Kameri Christy-McMullin, Ph.D. (University of Kansas), Associate Professor, School of Social Work
- Joe M. Schriver, Ph. D. (University of Iowa), Professor and Chair, Social Work Program.
- M. Jean Turner, Ph.D. (Texas Tech University), Professor, Human Environmental Science
- Anna Zajicek, Ph.D. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University), Professor, Sociology
Course of Study
Course of study (12 hours):
- PUPB 6123. Research Problems in Policy. Collaborative research with core faculty in specialty area.
- SOCI 5043 Public Policy, Children and Families (taught in sociology). The study of the impact of public policy on children and families, and the ways in which policy can be created, modified and changed. Includes the history of public policy concerning children and families.
- HESC 5403 Advanced Family Relations. Subtle elements in marriage, parent-child, and other relations among family members and between the family and the larger community. Recent cultural change as it affects the family. Recent research and literature. Prerequisite: psychology, sociology, family relations.
In addition, three hours of approved electives must be taken. This course will be chosen in consultation with the Ph.D. course committee, to fit the particular needs of the student. The following courses would meet these requirements:
- Domestic Relations, Law 5073 -- this is the basic course about the legal problems generated by family relationships.
- Education Law, Law 5063 -- this course examines legal issues in public education, including the rights of students and parents.
- Juvenile Justice Seminar, Law 7012 -- an examination of the juvenile justice system.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution, Law 6013 -- deals with the alternatives to formal litigation for resolving various types of disputes, including those involving domestic relations-an area where mediation is common.