About PhD Program,
The MA program in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS), one of the oldest programs of its kind in the country, provides intensive academic training in feminist theory, women’s and gender issues, and sexuality studies. The MA core curriculum focuses on foundational, intersectional, and transnational feminist theories. Students may also choose from a range of electives in areas such as literature, geography, history, sociology, politics and art, as well as legal, development, cross-cultural and sexuality studies. In addition, students may opt to concentrate in one of the program’s areas of specializations: sexuality studies and transnational feminisms. Electives can be chosen from a range of courses offered by core and affiliate faculty, including internships and study abroad opportunities. We also offer a joint MA/JD degree program with UC’s Law School, a program which is part of the Law School’s Center for Race, Gender and Social Justice. Both the MA and MA/JD programs culminate in an original research or creative project supervised by a faculty committee.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
For our graduate programs, we welcome applications from students who hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from a college or university accredited by accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV purposes or the international equivalent. It is recommended that applicants have at least a B average in undergraduate course work (or otherwise give evidence of promise that is judged satisfactory by the admitting program).
PhD Funding Coverage,
Certain programs provide funding for the majority of their incoming students. If you wish to seek alternative or additional funding, check out the funding opportunities below.
Individual graduate programs are primarily responsible for dispensing fellowships, graduate assistantships and other funding. You can also find general information about funding through the Graduate College’s Funding Opportunities page. Additionally, the International Student Services website has information regarding funding available for international students.
Application Requirement,
- Personal essay (approx. 1-2 double-spaced pages), in which you demonstrate your personal and intellectual commitment to women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, your potential to succeed in a research-oriented graduate program, and your professional goals consistent with advanced work in the field.
- Recent (within 2 years) TOEFL or IELTS Scores: Required for non-native English speakers. More information on minimum requirements can be found on the Graduate Admissions website.
- Three letters of recommendation: From individuals who can address your work in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and/or your research-oriented work
- Writing sample: In most cases, this will be an essay or research paper about women, gender, and/or sexuality-related issues written for a prior college course. Applicants returning to university after a period of absence should confer with the Graduate Director about the possibility of submitting another type of writing sample, such as a grant application, magazine article, or letter to the editor.
- Unofficial transcript(s) of all undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate courses are required for the admission application. Official transcripts will be required after accepting admittance to the program.
Applications should be complete by January 15, if you wish to be considered for a Graduate Assistantship. Initial notification for admissions and financial aid will be made by late February or early March. Given sufficient space,
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
- $65.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
- $70.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
