Sex Therapy
In this track you will learn how to help others through sex therapy or related work (e.g., clinical research, intervention development). International consensus is that sex therapy is considered a subdiscipline of other clinical disciplines (e.g., social work, clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, professional counseling).
Please note: To enroll in the sex therapy track, you must either already hold a licensable mental health degree or must enroll in one of our interdisciplinary programs.
Licensable mental health degrees include: MSW, LMFT, LCSW, LPC, LEP, PPS, MA in Psychology, or an MA in Counseling.
Please contact our department if you are unsure as to whether or not you are qualified to apply to the sex therapy track.
Sex Education
In the sex education track you will learn the necessary skills to educate others about human sexuality in communities, schools, or universities as community educators, teachers, educational consultants, curriculum developers, professional writers, or journalists. The sexuality education track emphasizes the developmentally and culturally appropriate design, delivery, and assessment of educational interventions across the broad spectrum of human sexuality.
Public Policy
The sexuality and public policy track of the PhD in Human Sexuality Studies program prepares students to work at the intersection of policy, advocacy and sexuality. Policies set at the local, state, and federal levels impact the scope of individual rights, as well as access to information and quality services in the fields of sexuality, reproductive rights and sexual health. Students pursuing this track will gain greater understanding of the dynamic and complex policy sector and build skills to effectively advocate for positive change. The program includes a practicum component where students will spend a year working in a professional setting to get real-world experiences that sets them up for success. While the sexuality-specific courses are taught in a combination of weekend and online courses, the four public administration courses required for this concentration are only offered weekday evenings on Widener’s main campus in Chester, PA.
Non-Profit Management
The non-profit management track is for individuals seeking to advance their skills as leaders of non-profit and non-governmental organizations that work in the sexuality sector and the related areas across the United States (i.e. reproductive justice, sexuality education, public education and information, healthcare, etc.). This track enhances leadership and managerial skills, while also offering training in advancement and communications necessary to thrive given the increasing demands and challenges facing the non-profit sector. The program includes a practicum component where students will spend a year working in a professional setting to get real-world experiences that set them up for success. While the sexuality-specific courses are taught in a combination of weekend and online courses, the four public administration courses required for this concentration are only offered weekday evenings on Widener’s main campus in Chester, PA.
Option for Pursuing a Career in the Public School Setting
If you wish to pursue a career in the public school setting but are not a certified teacher, consider a dual degree option with Widener’s school counseling program. Along with an PhD, you will receive a Pennsylvania certificate in school counseling.