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PhD in Women's Studies

The PhD in Women's Studies is a research-based program that allows students to work with a supervisor from across the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Science.

PhD Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the PhD in Women's Studies, prospective candidates must have obtained a standard of at least Second Class Honours, Grade I, in an approved primary degree. Applicants should normally hold, or expect to hold, an Honours Masters degree in Women's Studies, or an appropriate subject.

Prior to Applying: Supervisors and Proposals

Before making an application, it is essential to consult the research profiles of the staff and contact a staff member who has expertise in the area of interest and who may be willing to act as the supervisor. A research proposal (1,500 words approx) must be included with the Postgraduate Studies Application Form.

Writing Your Proposal

The proposal should include:

• A working title (perhaps with a sub-title) that provides an indication of the depth and scope of the proposed research
• A brief introduction (abstract) explaining the research topic, why it is considered suitable for the research, what gap the research may fill, and what it may achieve
• The justification/rationale: a section in which the rationale for focusing on the proposed topic is laid out, why such research is necessary, and what benefits the research might bring
• The scope/limits of the research: will it focus within a specific timeframe, on a specific region, on a specific group, etc.? What are its boundaries?
• Aims: a brief summary of the intended research direction
• Objectives: a clear and succinct statement of specific intended outcomes
• The literature: contextualize the research by providing a brief history of the subject with reference to the key literature
• Are there key theories or concepts that will inform the research? Explain their appropriateness and how they may be used
• Methodologies: what is covered will vary depending on the approach (social science, literary, historical)
• Ethical issues: acknowledge ethical concerns and how they may be addressed
• Projected timescale: a broad plan indicating a proposed timeframe for completing the research
• Resources: be realistic about issues like equipment, travel to view special collections in specific libraries, etc.
• Check references cited and include a bibliography that contains both works cited in the proposal and additional works known to be relevant

Duration/Further Information

Candidates normally pursue research for a minimum period of three years full-time from the date of first registration for the program. For more information on cost and funding opportunities, see the Graduate Studies webpage.

PhD Application Dates

Applications are accepted throughout the year. Prospective students are advised to complete their applications at least three months in advance of their desired start date. The three start dates during the year are January, April, and October.

Research Areas

Women's Studies is an interdisciplinary research area, and the approach to specific proposals will vary. It is necessary to discuss a proposal with a potential supervisor at an early stage and agree on a format specific to the applicant's subject.

University College Cork

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