PhD Degree in Gender Studies - About, Minimum Qualification, Universities, and Admission 2025-26

About This Course

The Ph.D. pathways in Women’s and Gender Studies open a powerful academic space for critical inquiry, interdisciplinary research, and transformative social understanding. At the Centre for Women’s Studies, the doctoral programme equips scholars with strong quantitative and qualitative research skills while fostering collaboration across diverse research and development initiatives. Its focus spans crucial themes such as gender mainstreaming, women’s health, legal rights, empowerment, mental well-being, eco-feminist perspectives, and the lived realities of marginalized groups including tribal communities and women with disabilities. Candidates holding a Master’s degree in any Social Science discipline with at least 55% marks can apply, while UGC-NET-JRF qualifiers in Women’s Studies receive direct admission as per university norms.

Ambedkar University Delhi’s Women’s and Gender Studies Ph.D. Programme deepens this intellectual journey by encouraging analysis of gender not as an isolated category but as something shaped by caste, class, sexuality, community, and ability. It creates a vibrant space for scholars who want to explore how social structures shape identities, inequalities, and everyday experiences.

For those seeking global academic exposure, the Comparative Gender Studies Ph.D. (accredited in the US and Austria) offers a structured 4–6 year training experience combining coursework, proposal development, comprehensive exams, and guided dissertation research. While tailored for academic careers, the programme also builds versatile skills valuable across policy, development, NGOs, and cultural sectors.

A two-year Ph.D. in Women’s Studies further strengthens understanding of how gender intersects with caste, race, sexuality, and broader social norms. It delves into feminist theory, standpoint theory, multiculturalism, social justice, materialism, and transnational feminism, helping scholars unpack the social and cultural constructions that shape women’s lives globally.

Together, these programmes empower researchers to contribute meaningfully to gender-just scholarship, policymaking, and advocacy, while inspiring deeper conversations around equality, representation, and social change.

Eligibility

Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential for students aspiring to pursue a Ph.D. in Women’s Studies. To apply for this programme, candidates must hold a Master’s or M.Phil degree in Women’s Studies or a closely related discipline. A minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university is required, ensuring that students have a solid academic background before advancing to research-level studies. Admission also depends on the candidate’s performance in the entrance examination, followed by a Personal Interview, where their research interest, clarity of thought, and academic preparedness are evaluated.

Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements before submitting their application forms. Any candidate found ineligible at any stage of the admission process will be disqualified, and such cases will not be reconsidered.

Shortlisting for the Research Aptitude Test (RAT) is based on both academic qualifications and the quality of the research proposal:

1. Educational Qualifications:

Candidates must possess a Second Class Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject, with at least 55% aggregate marks or a 3.5 GPA on the UGC seven-point scale. Relaxation is provided for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer) and differently-abled applicants, who require a minimum of 45% marks or a 2.5 GPA.

2. M.Phil Degree Holders:

Students who have completed an M.Phil or an equivalent degree from a recognized institution in India or abroad are also eligible to apply for the Ph.D. programme.

3. Research Proposal Submission:

Every applicant must submit a detailed research proposal of around 1,000 words. This document should outline the chosen research area, define the problem statement, explain objectives, justify the significance of the study, describe the methodology, include references, and highlight any prior research or work experience.

PhD Degree in Gender Studies Admission Process

The admission process for a Ph.D. in Women Studies involves a series of structured steps designed to assess a candidate’s academic readiness and research potential. To begin with, students must secure qualifying marks in entrance examinations such as PET or NET, conducted by the respective universities. Strong performance in the Personal Interview is equally important, as it evaluates the student’s research interest, clarity, and motivation.

Entrance exam application forms are generally released toward the end of April each year. Aspirants can submit their applications through both online and offline modes, depending on university guidelines. Once the entrance test results are announced, shortlisted candidates are invited for counseling, followed by the final admission procedure.

Online Admission Process

For universities that follow entrance-based online admission, candidates must complete the following steps:

Register online using an active email ID, mobile number, and chosen password.

Fill in all required personal and academic details accurately.

Appear for the entrance examination on the scheduled date.

After the results are declared, students who qualify will be called for a personal interview, leading to the final admission round.

Merit-Based or Offline Admission Process

In some institutions, Ph.D. admissions in Women Studies may be offered through a merit-based or offline procedure. The steps typically include:

Visit the college after the release of the admission form and collect the form along with the prospectus.

Complete the admission form carefully and prepare a demand draft for the required application fee.

Submit the completed form and the fee before the deadline.

A few days before admission, check the college’s cut-off list to confirm your chances of securing a seat.

These processes ensure a fair and transparent selection, enabling committed students to advance into meaningful research in the field of Women Studies.

Future Scope

A Ph.D. in Women Studies allows students to deeply explore the social norms and structures that shape everyday life, including caste, gender, sexuality, race, and other forms of inequality. The course also introduces learners to feminist pedagogy, helping aspiring researchers understand feminist approaches to teaching, learning, and critical inquiry. Through this academic foundation, students build a strong analytical lens to examine societal challenges and contribute to meaningful social transformation.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this programme can access a wide range of career paths across social development, education, research, and advocacy. Some promising roles include:

Settlement and Youth Worker

Executive Director of a Non-Profit Organization

Community Service Agency Director

Child and Youth Worker

Family Support Worker

Event Planner

Market Research Analyst

Professionals with a Ph.D. in Women Studies also find opportunities in NGOs, private women’s welfare organizations, research institutions, and independent activism, working to address inequalities and promote gender justice.

Future Scope

The scope for Ph.D. holders in Women Studies is both diverse and global. Recognized as one of the highest academic achievements, this degree allows graduates to work nationally and internationally based on their research expertise. With deep knowledge of cultural, economic, sexual, and racial issues affecting women, they contribute to empowerment initiatives and create long-term social impact.

Many graduates choose to build their careers abroad, working with multinational firms that offer strong career growth, competitive salaries, and exposure to global perspectives. In India, opportunities also exist in esteemed research bodies like CSIR and DRDO, where scholars can contribute to studies that improve societal well-being.

Additionally, Ph.D. graduates can pursue academic careers as professors or researchers in universities and colleges around the world, shaping future generations and expanding critical scholarship in gender studies.