A new university study has set out to investigate the writing of female characters on Doctor Who since the show returned to our screens in 2005.

The students conducted two major tests – a Bechdel Test, and counting speaking time – on all the post-2005 companions that had completed their tenure in the show (Rose, Martha, Donna and Amy).

To pass the Bechdel Test – originally developed for films – a movie is required to feature at least two women who talk to each other, about something besides a man.

Here is the final report from the study [click to enlarge]…

> Take a look at Rebecca Moore’s blog for expanded results and analysis.

How do you feel about how female characters are written in Doctor Who? Let us know below…