A PhD in Gender Studies is an advanced degree program that focuses on the study of gender and its impact on various aspects of society, culture, and policy. This interdisciplinary field of study draws from a range of fields, including sociology, anthropology, political science, psychology, and literature.
The PhD in Gender Studies typically involves a combination of coursework, research, and writing. Coursework may cover topics such as feminist theory, gender and sexuality, intersectionality, social movements, and research methods. Students will also conduct original research in their chosen area of study and will be expected to produce a thesis or dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field of gender studies.
Some of the key areas of focus within Gender Studies include:
Cultures and Societies: Gender Studies explores the ways in which gender roles, expectations, and norms are constructed, maintained, and challenged in different cultures and societies. This includes the study of gendered power dynamics, gender-based violence, gendered language and communication, and the impact of gender on social institutions such as family, religion, and education.
Policies: Gender Studies also examines the ways in which policies and laws impact gender inequality and social justice. This includes the study of policies related to reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, violence against women, and LGBTQ rights.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a key concept in Gender Studies that emphasizes the ways in which gender intersects with other forms of social identity, such as race, class, and sexuality. This approach recognizes that gender is not experienced in isolation and that multiple forms of oppression and privilege interact to shape individual experiences.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD In Gender Study: Cultures, Societies and Policies |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Gender Study: Cultures, Societies and Policies |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Notified Soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Most universities require applicants to take an entrance exam, which tests their knowledge of gender studies and related fields.
The exam may include questions on theories, methodologies, and research methods used in gender studies.
It may also test the applicant's critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.
The duration of a PhD in Gender Studies varies depending on the university and the mode of study. Generally, it takes three to five years of full-time study to complete a PhD program. Part-time study may take longer.
The selection criteria for a PhD in Gender Studies vary among universities. However, common criteria include:
Academic excellence: Candidates should have a strong academic record, particularly in social sciences. |
Research potential: Candidates should demonstrate the ability to undertake independent research in gender studies. |
Fit with the program: Candidates should show a clear interest and background in gender studies and the ability to contribute to the program. |
To apply for a PhD in Gender Studies, candidates should follow these steps:
The application form for a PhD in Gender Studies is typically available on the university's website.
Candidates need to fill in the form online or offline as per the instructions provided.
They also need to upload or submit the required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and entrance exam scores, along with the application form.
The application process may involve paying an application fee, which varies among universities.
The fee for a PhD in Gender Studies varies among universities. Typically, the fee for Indian students ranges from Notified Soon per year, while the fee for international students may be higher.
Some universities may offer scholarships or fellowships to eligible candidates to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
The syllabus for a PhD in Gender Studies varies among universities. However, common topics include:
PhD graduates in Gender Studies can work in a variety of fields, including academia, research, policy-making, advocacy, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The salary for a PhD graduate in Gender Studies depends on the field of work and the level of experience. In academia, the starting salary for an assistant professor in Gender Studies is around INR 50,000-60,000 per month, while a professor can earn around INR 1,00,000-1,50,000 per month. In research and advocacy, the salary depends on the organization and the level of responsibility.
Career opportunities for PhD graduates in Gender Studies include:
Teaching and research positions in universities and colleges |
Research positions in government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) |
Policy-making positions in government and international organizations |
Advocacy and activism positions in NGOs and civil society organizations |
Consulting positions in the private sector |
Writing and journalism positions in media organizations |
Some of the top colleges in India that offer a PhD in Gender Studies are:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.