Saint Louis University's dual Juris Doctor/Master of Arts in Women's and Gender Studies program provides students with a rigorous, interdisciplinary and critical study of law, gender and social justice. The program allows students to complete both degrees with significantly less time and expense than if they were obtained separately, with 18 credits counting toward both programs.

Saint Louis University offers the PhD of Women's and Gender Studies as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Saint Louis , United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 4 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for women's and gender studies and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on August 23, 2027.
About PhD in Women's and Gender Studies
- While taking courses through both Saint Louis University School of Law and the women's and gender studies department, students develop research projects that focus on how law and legal policies intersect with gendered social institutions and practices.
- By pursuing both degrees concurrently, students acquire a broader context for advocating for gender equality in law and policy, along with the distinct analytical training and skill set to navigate the legal system.
- Through the SLU LAW Legal Clinics, students can gain first-hand experience representing clients who otherwise would not be able to afford a lawyer, working on civil and human rights issues, employment discrimination, prison/sentencing injustice, and municipal ordinance violations and more. Students also have the opportunity to assist female entrepreneurs, small business owners and neighborhoods in ways that contribute to the good of the local community.
Dual J.D./M.A. in Women's and Gender Studies students at SLU acquire skills applicable to a variety of settings, including:
- Advocating for the rights of women and other disadvantaged groups
- Helping survivors of gender-based violence
- Working in local and national feminist legal organizations
- Practicing law with a clear understanding of how gender issues interconnect with public and private policies
Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Women's and Gender Studies at Saint Louis University
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
- Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
- Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)
Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 54
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Women's and Gender Studies
Attorneys with an M.A. in Women's and Gender Studies are well equipped to work as nonprofit leaders, lobbyists, judges, public defenders and more. They may work in advocacy on behalf of women and other disadvantaged groups or on behalf of victims of gender-based violence or choose to practice in fields such as employment law, family law, immigration law, health policy/health law, elder law and public interest law. Graduates may also pursue professional opportunities to expand diversity and representation in the legal profession or higher education.
Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Women's and Gender Studies at Saint Louis University
How to Apply for PhD in Women's and Gender Studies at Saint Louis University
Step 1: Accept or decline your admission
If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.
If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.
Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID
Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.
Step 3: Log into MySLU
Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.
When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.
Step 4: Check with your academic department
Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.
Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog
Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms
If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.
Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card
You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

United States of America, Saint Louis