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Program Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Who are the faculty in the Ph.D. program and where do I find information about their areas of research and recent publications?
Please see the faculty section of the Department of Demography and Organization Studies on the College of Public Policy website: http://utsa.edu/copp/dem/staff.html

Can I enroll on a part-time basis?
Yes, the Ph.D. program has been designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students.      Note:   Full-time students = nine semesters hours or more
                  Part-time students = less than 9 semester hours

What areas will I specialize in once I am in the program?
The Ph.D. in Applied Demography has two tracks in which students can specialize – Applied Demography and Health and Applied Demography and Policy.

The Applied Demography and Health track prepares students to address the expanding education and research problems that are at the intersection of demography and health care.  Students in this area not only pursue careers in university-based medical centers, health science centers, and social science departments but also in health care areas in the private sector such as marketing and planning. 

The Applied Demography and Policy track prepares students to work in the area of applied social demography.  Students are trained to examine the effects of demographic factors on policy—both private   and public. Students trained in this track are prepared to pursue academic careers as well as careers in national and corporate settings, such as marketing, advertising and policy.  Special emphasis is placed on research and policy in large local, state, and federal agencies.

When are classes taught?
Most classes are taught during weekday evenings to accommodate students who work during the day.  However, there are a few courses which are taught during the afternoon.

Application Process Questions

What is the application deadline for the Ph.D. Program?
Completed applications must be submitted to the graduate school by February 1st (fall term entry only) .

How do I apply?
You must complete a departmental application and submit to the Department of Demography and Organization Studies at your earliest convenience.  You must also apply online for admission to the university and the Ph.D. program through the UTSA’s Graduate School Website.

Are there any pre-requisites for admission?
In addition to satisfying the University-wide requirements for admission to graduate programs, all prospective students must have a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science or Master of Art degree from an accredited university in demography/sociology, geography, economics, biology, political science, statistics, mathematics, business or similar fields. Students who have not earned a qualifying masters degree may be required to complete the equivalent courses in the appropriate discipline area before admission to the Ph.D. program in Applied Demography.

Do I need any advising prior to applying for the Ph.D. program?
No.  However, it maybe helpful for you to pose questions to the Graduate Advisor of Record, Karl Eschbach, Ph.D., Department of Demography and Organization Studies.  You may contact him via e-mail at Karl.Eschbach@utsa.edu.

What are the application requirements?

1. Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work completed.
2. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing).  Scores must be for test taken within the past five years.
3. Submit a sample written paper or report.
4. Three letters of recommendation.  At least two letters must assess your academic and research capabilities and others may be from persons representing the work or professional sector.
5. A letter of application describing the applicant’s academic and work backgrounds.  Be specific about your research goals and objectives related to the doctorate in Applied Demography.  
6. International students from non-English speaking countries must also submit a score of at least 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).  Score must be for test taken within the past two years.

I have taken the GRE but it has been more than five years ago, can I have the GRE waived for my application?
No, a recent (within the past 5 years) score is required by the university for Ph.D. applicants.  GRE scores must be submitted by the May 1st application deadline.

What should I include in my letter of application?
In this letter, you should describe yourself and your academic and work backgrounds.  Be specific about your research goals and objectives related to the doctorate in Applied Demography and what your expectations of the program are in furthering your career objectives.   

Are assistantships available and if so, how can I apply?
Yes, we anticipate considering applicants for research assistantships. Assistantship stipends are competitive with other universities and are granted on a competitive basis. To apply, you must complete an assistantship application and submit with the departmental application. It is anticipated that assistantships will be available for most students entering the program.

Who should I contact with questions about the Ph.D. program, its admissions process, and requirements?

• One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0704 PH (210) 458-6547 FAX (210) 458-6540