Program Overview

Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science Admission

The Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science (DSS) program is currently accepting applications for the following cohorts:

• Fall 2026 – Online Cohort
• Spring 2027 – Online Cohort

The DSS program is no longer accepting applications for the following cohort:

• Spring 2026 – Online Cohort

Consideration for acceptance to the DSocSci program is based on an applicant's demonstrated competency and significant alignment with the following criteria:

• Experience in the field of prevention science could include but is not limited to, design, delivery, evaluation, and/or collaboration of prevention policies, practices, or programs.
• Strong academic performance at both the undergraduate and the master's degree levels.
• Recommendations from individuals that can reflect relevant academic and career/experience skills and competencies to be successful in a prevention science doctoral program.
• Writing and critical thinking skills.
• Career goals that are in alignment with the degree program competencies.
• Application essay meets or exceeds stated writing and content standards.

Admission Requirements

For consideration and admission to the Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science program, applicants should submit:

1. A Completed Doctoral Application

• Create an Admissions Portal Account and submit an application and supplemental items through the portal.
• There is a $35 nonrefundable fee to submit the application.

2. Official Transcripts, reflecting the following:

• A conferred bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• A conferred master's degree from an accredited institution.
• Official Transcripts may be sent electronically or by mail, directly from the school of attendance, in a sealed envelope.

3. A Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae

• Upload a copy of a current professional Resume or Vitae as either a PDF or Word document.

4. Three Letters of Recommendation

• Three letters of recommendation must be completed by professionals who can attest to an applicant's aptitude for doctoral-level study, openness to interdisciplinary learning, and professional self-development.

5. An Essay

• Respond to the following statements using APA 7th edition writing standards.
• The response should be a minimum of three pages (8 ½ x 11) typed, with at least six citations/references.
• I. Professional Goals & Purpose: Describe personal and professional goals, and identify experiences associated with prevention that demonstrate preparedness to pursue the doctoral degree.
• II. Research Interest Statement: Describe a prevention-focused research topic, including a clear description of the problem, purpose, preliminary research questions, and a brief review of relevant literature supported by at least six peer-reviewed journal articles.

Admissions Process Stages

Stage 1: Review of Application Materials

1. Undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts (3.0 GPA or higher is desired)
2. Relevant professional/volunteer experience documented on the resume
3. Three recommendation letters from individuals knowledgeable of an applicant's abilities and potential for success
4. Statement of goals and objectives as expressed on the thought questions

Applicants who successfully meet the screening criteria in Stage 1 are invited to interview in Stage 2.

Stage 2: Interview

1. All admissions materials must be complete and submitted by the application deadline for an applicant to be considered for an admissions interview.
2. Interviews will be conducted either in person or using technology (e.g., Zoom/Skype)
3. The PSC Program Admissions Committee reviews all application materials and interview information to determine a candidate's fit for the PSC Program based on academic readiness, personal/professional experiences, and career goals. Decisions of the committee are final.