Admission is based on a proposal from the applicant following discussion with the potential supervisor. Candidates for the PhD are usually expected to hold a Master’s degree or first class undergraduate degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a cognate field. Applicants holding an Upper Second Class degree or equivalent qualifications and/or relevant experience may also be considered. Students accepted for the PhD in Women's Studies work as part of the Global Women’s Studies Programme and as members of the Gender Research Group of the School of Political Science and Sociology.

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.