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Ph.D.

Prevention Science

Advance Well-Being Through Research and Action

The Doctor of Philosophy in Prevention Science at WSU Vancouver prepares students to address critical societal challenges by bridging the gap between scientific research and community action. This interdisciplinary program focuses on applying basic research regarding individuals, families, and communities to develop, evaluate, and disseminate programs that promote physical, social, and psychological well-being.

Students receive comprehensive training to conduct research on risk and protective factors while designing evidence-based practices and policies. Through rigorous coursework and practical application, individuals learn to evaluate program effectiveness under diverse conditions and provide strategic recommendations to improve social policy and existing community initiatives.

Program objectives and requirements

Program Objectives and Competencies

Graduates of this doctoral program master key competencies necessary to lead in the field of public health and human development. Students develop skills to write successful grant proposals, employ diverse quantitative and qualitative research designs, and utilize effective teaching or mentoring strategies across classroom and community settings. Competencies gained through the curriculum include:

  • Proficiency in theory and basic research on human development within family, peer, school, and community contexts.
  • Understanding of individual, family, and environmental risk and protective factors, alongside epidemiological approaches to prevalence assessment.
  • Ability to perform original, rigorous research that advances knowledge in a specialized discipline.
  • Skill in applying research findings to design programs that promote optimal development and prevent negative physical, social, and emotional outcomes.
  • Capacity to conduct scientific tests of program efficacy, effectiveness, dissemination, and implementation.
  • Advanced written and oral communication skills to disseminate research findings to diverse audiences and influence evidence-based policy.