Research
Ph.D. Program

The Research Practicum

The purpose of the research practicum is to enable the student to experience the interplay of research and practice in an agency or applied research setting, and to provide an opportunity for learning the skills of applied research. The research practicum provides a research experience in a study under the supervision of an approved faculty mentor; a seminar accompanies the practicum. See practicum examples.

The Dissertation

The purpose of the dissertation is to demonstrate the student’s ability to do independent research. After successful completion of coursework and a comprehensive examination, the student develops a dissertation proposal, working closely with a committee of faculty members. The student defends the dissertation before the dissertation committee in a public presentation. See dissertation examples.

The PhD Seminar

The Ph.D. Research Seminar is a part of the core curriculum for all first and second year students. The monthly seminar features presentations by students and faculty members who are working together on a study or other project.

Research Institutes

• The Regional Research Institute for Human Services provides a base for multiple research projects funded by a variety of federal, state, and private sources. Currently inquiry is under way around areas as diverse as child mental health, early intervention, welfare reform, domestic violence, juvenile justice, and patterns of service delivery.
• The Research and Training Center on Family Support and Children's Mental Health is dedicated to promoting effective community-based, culturally competent, family-centered services for families and their children who are, or may be affected by mental, emotional or behavioral disorders. This goal is accomplished through collaborative research partnerships with family members, service providers, policy makers, and other concerned persons.
• The Center for the Improvement of Services to Children and Families (formerly the Child Welfare Partnership) offers opportunities for research and teaching in the field of child welfare. Developed in collaboration with the School of Extended Studies and the Oregon Department of Human Services, it hosts several research projects, provides for the training of child welfare workers, and supports the education of M.S.W. students who plan careers in child welfare.