Doctor of Philosophy in Women, - University of K

The University of Kansas's interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies program examines inequalities based on gender, race, sexual orientation, and class. It emphasizes translating research into practical knowledge to improve communities, focusing on cutting-edge issues like discrimination, violence, and health inequality. Graduates pursue diverse careers, leveraging the program's interdisciplinary approach and concentrations in various fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Doctor of Philosophy in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) program at the University of Kansas is an interdisciplinary program designed to examine inequalities resulting from gender, race, sexual orientation, and class. The program emphasizes translating research into practical knowledge that contributes to the betterment of communities. The program focuses on cutting-edge issues like discrimination, violence, human trafficking, health and inequality, and migration.

Key Objectives:

Examining Inequalities: Analyze how gender, race, sexual orientation, and class contribute to inequalities.
Interdisciplinary Lens: Utilize an interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex issues.
Actionable Research: Translate research into tangible knowledge that can improve communities.
Focus on Vulnerability and Power: Investigate factors contributing to vulnerability and power dynamics across time and geography.

Program Description:

The program offers a comprehensive understanding of the construction of social roles and their evolution, particularly in relation to gender.
WGSS courses provide knowledge and sensitivity to issues of gender in various contexts, including education, lifestyle, social roles, sexuality, legal status, and equity.
The program equips students to deal with gender-related issues in a responsible, informed, and just manner.

Assessment:

Qualifying Exam: Taken after completing 30 credit hours of coursework (typically in the fourth semester).
Comprehensive Oral Exam: This exam takes place after completing all required coursework (or in the final semester) and involves a portfolio of major written work, three annotated bibliographies, and a dissertation prospectus.
Dissertation: Students must write a dissertation approved by a departmental committee and pass a final oral defense to complete the doctorate.

Careers:

The program provides a solid foundation for entering the workforce, pursuing further education, and making an impact in the world.
WGSS graduates pursue a wide range of careers, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field.

Other:

Concentrations: Students can pursue approved concentrations in various fields, including African and African-American Studies, American Studies, Anthropology, Classics, Communication Studies, English, Film and Media Studies, History, History of Art, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Theatre, Indigenous Studies, and Museum Studies.
Alternative Concentrations: Students can pursue alternative concentrations with approval from their faculty advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies.
Graduate Student Handbook: Contains additional information about course and degree requirements for the WGSS doctoral program.