University of Memphis

What you'll study

This PhD is a research-led programme built around a substantial original dissertation on a topic that intersects gender law, international law and comparative legal systems. Early stages typically combine substantive seminars and methodological training with independent research under the guidance of one or more supervisors.

• Core research training – advanced legal research methods, qualitative and quantitative approaches where appropriate, comparative methods, and interdisciplinary theory (including feminist and critical legal theories).
• Substantive areas – seminars and reading groups in international human rights, refugee and migration law, family law and reproductive rights, gender-based violence, criminal law and gender, and socio-legal studies.
• Comparative study – comparative constitutionalism, comparative family and labour law, regional human rights systems, and the comparative regulation of gendered social policy.
• Contextual and policy modules – global governance, transitional justice, law and development, and the role of international organisations and NGOs in shaping gender norms.
• Teaching and professional development – opportunities to develop teaching skills through assistantships, presentation skills workshops, and training in grant writing and publishing.

Progress through the programme generally moves from coursework and seminars to comprehensive examinations or a doctoral proposal defence, followed by concentrated dissertation research and eventual oral defence. Candidates are expected to produce publishable articles during their candidature and to present work at conferences.

Entry requirements

• Typically a strong master's degree in law (LLM) or a related graduate qualification; candidates with a JD, LLB or equivalent and significant research experience may also be considered.
• A clear and feasible research proposal demonstrating alignment with supervisory expertise in gender, international or comparative law.
• Evidence of strong academic performance and potential for research—academic transcripts, writing samples (such as a prior thesis or published article), and a curriculum vitae.
• Letters of recommendation from academic referees who can attest to research potential and preparedness for doctoral study.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proficiency demonstrated through recognised language tests or equivalent institutional evidence.
• Where applicable, candidates may be interviewed by prospective supervisors or an admissions panel to assess fit and research readiness.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD typically follow careers that rely on high-level research, teaching and policy skills. Typical pathways include:

• Academic positions in law schools and interdisciplinary departments, including tenure-track roles and research fellowships.
• Research and policy roles in international organisations, intergovernmental bodies and non-governmental organisations focused on human rights, gender equality and development.
• Senior legal advisory and consultancy positions in government agencies, think tanks and advocacy organisations working on comparative or international law issues.
• Leadership roles in public interest litigation, strategic advocacy, and comparative law projects that inform law reform.
• Publishing, editorial and scholarly communications roles that draw on specialised subject-matter expertise.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a research environment that encourages interdisciplinary work across law, social sciences and humanities, with faculty whose expertise spans gender, international human rights and comparative legal studies. Students can draw on local and regional legal institutions for empirical research while engaging with global debates through conferences and visiting scholars.

Doctoral candidates benefit from close supervisory relationships, opportunities for teaching experience within the law school, and institutional support for professional development such as grant writing and academic publishing. The programme emphasises applied scholarship that connects rigorous theoretical frameworks to policy and practice, preparing graduates to contribute to scholarship and public life in meaningful ways.