Community Resources and Development, PhD

Program Overview

The PhD in Community Resources and Development (CRDE) at Arizona State University is a research-intensive program that prepares graduates for careers in community development. It emphasizes building sustainable and healthy communities through a transdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from various fields. The program offers a unique blend of theory, research, and fieldwork, equipping students with advanced research skills, leadership abilities, and proficiency in integrating transdisciplinary knowledge. Graduates are prepared for diverse research-oriented careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview

The PhD in Community Resources and Development (CRDE) is a research-intensive program that prepares graduates for research-oriented careers in various areas. It emphasizes building sustainable and healthy communities through various areas of focus: community studies, non-profit leadership & management, parks, recreation & leisure, tourism development & management.

Objectives

The program aims to equip students with:

• Deep knowledge of the field of community development.
• Advanced research skills.
• Proficiency in integrating transdisciplinary knowledge.
• Leadership abilities to effect positive change.

Description

This program offers a unique blend of theory, research, and fieldwork. It is transdisciplinary in nature and builds upon current research collaborations with various ASU departments and schools.

Outline

Program Content

The CRDE PhD program delves into various aspects of community development, including:

• Community studies: examines social and economic dynamics within communities.
• Non-profit leadership and management: equips students to effectively lead and manage non-profit organizations.
• Parks, recreation, and leisure: focuses on managing park systems and providing diverse leisure opportunities for communities.
• Tourism development and management: explores the dynamics and economic impact of tourism.

Structure

The CRDE PhD program consists of 84 credit hours, culminating in a dissertation. It follows this structure:

• Required Core (24 credit hours): focuses on foundational concepts and research methods in community development.
• Electives or Research (48 credit hours): allows students to tailor their studies toward specific interests.
• Culminating Experience (12 credit hours): dedicated to dissertation research and completion.

Course Schedule and Individual Modules

• The program includes various modules, each with specific learning objectives.
• Course schedules are developed annually and may be subject to change.
• Example modules:
• Community Research Methods
• Sustainable Communities
• Research Seminar in Community Resources and Development
• Fieldwork

Assessment

The CRDE PhD program utilizes various assessment methods:

• Written comprehensive exam: tests knowledge of core concepts.
• Oral comprehensive exam: evaluates research and communication skills.
• Dissertation defense: assesses the student's research contribution to the field.

Teaching

Teaching Methods

• The program employs various teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, discussions, and independent research.
• Emphasis is placed on active learning and collaboration.

Faculty

The CRDE PhD program boasts renowned faculty with expertise in various areas of community development. Students benefit from close mentorship and collaboration with these experts.

Unique Approaches

• The program emphasizes a transdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from different fields.
• It offers opportunities for real-world experiences through fieldwork and research partnerships.
• The program fosters a strong sense of community among students and faculty, creating a supportive learning environment.

Careers

Graduates of the CRDE PhD program are prepared for diverse research-oriented careers, including:

• University professors
• Think tank researchers
• Independent scholars
• Consultants
• Foundation officers
• Government officers
• Corporate social responsibility officers
• Non-profit leadership positions

Other

• The CRDE PhD program is designed for full-time study and typically takes 3-4 years to complete.
• A limited number of part-time students may be admitted on a longer completion timeline.
• The program is housed within the Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions at Arizona State University.