University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The PhD in Gender and Women’s Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison provides advanced, interdisciplinary training in feminist and critical gender scholarship. The program is designed for students to develop robust research expertise across a variety of domains, including queer and sexuality studies, race and ethnicity, disability studies, and transnational/postcolonial approaches. With a typical duration of 60 months, the program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of gender dynamics and social justice issues.

What you'll study

Doctoral coursework and training

• Research Methods in Gender & Women’s Studies
• Gender and Women’s Studies: The Emergence and Transformation of a Field
• Contemporary Theorizing in Gender and Women’s Studies
• Pedagogy in Gender and Women’s Studies
• Proseminar in Gender and Women’s Studies

Dissertation

• Completion of a PhD dissertation based on original research, developed under faculty guidance and aligned with the student’s scholarly interests.

Academic development

• Ongoing progress through program seminars, research planning, and dissertation preparation.
• Opportunities to refine teaching and scholarly communication skills through pedagogy-focused coursework and program activities.

Note: Course availability and the specific sequence of requirements may vary by cohort and student background. Prospective students should confirm current degree requirements with the program and the Graduate School.

Entry requirements

Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), and in many cases, a relevant master’s degree. The program assesses academic preparedness in relation to proposed research interests. It is advisable to check the Graduate School and program website for the most current guidance regarding GRE/GMAT and minimum GPA requirements.

English language requirements: Test scores are typically required for applicants whose first language is not English or whose previous degree instruction was not conducted in English. Accepted tests include:

• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 125
• TOEFL^® iBT: Minimum score of 92
• IELTS: Minimum score of 7

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Gender and Women’s Studies are well-equipped for diverse career paths. They may pursue opportunities in academia, research, public policy, advocacy, and non-profit organizations, focusing on issues related to gender, social justice, and equity. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares students for roles that require critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of societal dynamics.