University of Ottawa

Overview

The PhD program in Feminist and Gender Studies at the University of Ottawa is designed to cultivate a new generation of researchers who are committed to advancing feminist scholarship. This interdisciplinary program addresses critical social, political, cultural, and economic issues through a robust combination of feminist theory and methodology, engaging with both local and global contexts.

What you'll study

The curriculum integrates graduate-level coursework and seminars with a significant research component, guiding students toward the completion of a doctoral dissertation. Participants will engage in a variety of required and elective courses, departmental activities, and research initiatives.

Coursework may include:

• Feminist Methodologies
• Feminist Theories
• Seminar in Women’s Studies
• Gender, Power and Representations
• Women, Rights and Citizenship in a Globalized World
• Intersectional Perspectives on Environmental Change
• Anti-Colonial and Anti-Racist Feminisms
• Feminist Disability Studies
• Critical Muslim Studies
• Special Topics in Feminist Studies

Research component:

• Formulation of a research question and dissertation proposal that aligns with feminist and gender studies
• Continuous supervision and research training
• Completion of a doctoral dissertation grounded in original research

Entry requirements

• Level: PhD (Doctoral)
• Typical entry requirement: Master’s degree (thesis or research paper) in feminist and gender studies or a related field with relevant research experience
• Minimum academic average: 75% (B+), calculated based on graduate studies guidelines
• Language of instruction: English
• English test option: TOEFL iBT with a minimum score requirement

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Feminist and Gender Studies are well-equipped for diverse career paths. Opportunities exist in academia, research institutions, non-profit organizations, and public policy, allowing them to contribute to social change and advocate for gender equality on multiple fronts.