MSc Global Development (Gender)
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Global Development (Gender) at SOAS University of London is a specialized pathway within the broader MSc Global Development program. This pathway offers students an in-depth exploration of development studies through the lens of gender, emphasizing feminist theories, world feminisms, and the role of gender in global development processes. SOAS's esteemed Centre for Gender Studies underpins this program, providing a robust academic foundation for students interested in the intersection of gender and development.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of global development issues, with a particular focus on gender. Core modules cover topics such as development theory, gender and development, and research methods. Students have the flexibility to choose from a range of elective modules that delve into areas like feminist political economy, gender and conflict, and sexuality and development. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to conduct independent research on a gender-related topic of their choice.
Research Focus: SOAS is renowned for its research excellence in development studies, particularly in gender-related fields. The university's Centre for Gender Studies fosters interdisciplinary research, encouraging students to engage with contemporary debates and contribute to scholarly discourse on gender and development. Students are supported in conducting original research that challenges conventional perspectives and addresses real-world issues.
Industry Engagement: The program offers students opportunities to engage with development practitioners and organizations. Through internships and work placements facilitated by the university, students can gain practical experience and apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences not only enhance learning but also provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into potential career paths.
Global Perspective: SOAS's diverse student body and international faculty create a vibrant learning environment that reflects the global nature of development challenges. The program emphasizes a global perspective, encouraging students to consider how gender and development intersect across different cultural, political, and economic contexts. This global outlook equips graduates with the cultural competence and critical thinking skills necessary to work effectively in international development settings.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The MSc Global Development (Gender) program at SOAS University of London is an academically rigorous and globally relevant course that explores the intersection of gender, development, and social justice. Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and critical perspectives necessary to address contemporary development challenges with a focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. SOAS’s unique approach combines feminist theories with practical, real-world applications, preparing students for a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
International Development Organizations: Graduates of the MSc Global Development (Gender) program are highly sought after by international organizations that focus on human rights, sustainable development, and gender equality. This includes organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and international NGOs like Oxfam, CARE, and Save the Children. Roles in these organizations may include policy advisors, program coordinators, gender specialists, and researchers focused on gender mainstreaming in development policies and programs.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs, particularly those focused on human rights, women’s empowerment, and gender equality, are key employers for graduates of this program. NGOs such as Plan International, Gender Action, and Amnesty International offer opportunities to work on projects that aim to eliminate gender-based violence, support women’s rights, and promote gender equality across the globe. Graduates can take on roles such as gender analysts, advocacy officers, project managers, and monitoring and evaluation specialists.
Government Agencies and Public Policy: Government bodies, including ministries of foreign affairs, national development agencies, and agencies dealing with social welfare and gender equality, also provide career opportunities. MSc Global Development (Gender) graduates may work in roles such as policy analysts, gender policy advisors, or governmental project managers, where they contribute to the design, implementation, and evaluation of gender-focused policies and initiatives at the national or regional level. This includes contributing to international development strategies and working on gender-sensitive national development plans.
Social Enterprises and Gender Advocacy: Social enterprises focused on social justice, sustainable development, and gender empowerment offer a growing career field for graduates. Social enterprises like the Malala Fund or Kiva require development professionals who understand how gender dynamics influence economic and social development. Graduates of the MSc Global Development (Gender) program can pursue roles in gender advocacy, fundraising, project coordination, and strategic planning to create meaningful social impact in areas such as education, healthcare, and community development.
Research and Academia: For those interested in continuing their studies, the MSc Global Development (Gender) program provides a solid foundation for PhD programs in gender studies, international development, or related fields. Graduates may become researchers or academics in universities and research institutions. This career path involves generating new knowledge, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to debates and policy development in the field of gender and development.
Consulting and Advisory Services: International development consulting firms, such as Deloitte, PwC, and McKinsey, often hire graduates with a deep understanding of gender and development. As consultants, MSc Global Development (Gender) graduates may work on projects that focus on the design and implementation of gender-sensitive programs, evaluating the gendered impacts of development policies, or advising governments and organizations on how to integrate gender into broader development strategies. This role involves offering strategic insights, conducting research, and providing recommendations to improve development outcomes with a focus on gender equality.
Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management: Humanitarian organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), often need professionals who understand the intersection of gender and humanitarian assistance. Graduates can pursue roles related to gender-based violence prevention, gender-sensitive relief coordination, and crisis management. These positions involve working on the ground in conflict zones or refugee camps, focusing on protecting vulnerable populations and addressing gender-specific needs in humanitarian emergencies.
Private Sector (Corporate Social Responsibility and Gender Equity): With increasing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion, many corporations now have dedicated teams for corporate social responsibility (CSR), where a focus on gender equality is becoming a key area. Graduates may find opportunities working as CSR managers, gender diversity consultants, or sustainability analysts, where they are tasked with helping businesses integrate gender equity into their practices and strategies. This involves designing and implementing policies that promote gender equality in the workplace and in global supply chains.
Development Communication and Media: Graduates of the MSc Global Development (Gender) program who are interested in communication and media can pursue careers in development journalism or media advocacy. This includes writing for development-focused media outlets, contributing to reports on gender and development, or working with media campaigns to raise awareness about gender equality issues. These roles may be available in development-focused publications, media agencies, or organizations promoting social change.
Environmental and Climate Change Organizations: The growing intersection between gender, climate change, and sustainable development presents career opportunities for graduates interested in environmental justice. Organizations focused on climate change adaptation, resilience building, and sustainable development are increasingly recognizing the gendered impacts of environmental changes. MSc Global Development (Gender) graduates can work as gender and climate change specialists, policy advisors, or sustainable development experts, focusing on the empowerment of women in climate-vulnerable communities.
