MA Sexual Dissidence

The MA Sexual Dissidence at the University of Sussex is a cutting-edge program that critically examines the politics of sexuality, focusing on non-normative sexualities and the resistance to traditional sexual and gender norms. The course provides students with the opportunity to explore various theoretical and practical perspectives on sexual dissidence, including queer theory, postcolonial studies, and feminist thought. The program seeks to deconstruct established notions of sexuality and identity, emphasizing how marginalized sexualities challenge societal structures and contribute to social change. This multidisciplinary course encourages students to critically engage with both historical and contemporary issues related to sexual dissidence, social justice, and human rights.

Curriculum: The MA Sexual Dissidence curriculum is structured to offer a thorough understanding of the diverse ways in which sexuality is conceptualized and contested in both academic and societal contexts. Students will engage with core modules covering topics such as queer theory, sexual politics, the history of sexual dissidence, and the intersectionality of sexuality with race, class, and gender. The program provides a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications, enabling students to critically assess the social, cultural, and political forces that shape sexual identities and practices. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests, culminating in a dissertation that allows them to explore in-depth a topic related to sexual dissidence.

Research Focus: The MA Sexual Dissidence program at Sussex is deeply rooted in contemporary research that challenges and redefines norms around sexuality, gender, and power. The research focus of the program encourages students to critically examine both historical and current struggles surrounding sexual dissidence. Faculty members are leaders in fields such as queer theory, feminist studies, and postcolonial sexuality, and they bring their expertise to bear on the issues of sexual politics, cultural representations of sexuality, and human rights. Students have access to the latest academic research, providing a rich environment for critical inquiry. The program emphasizes the importance of decolonizing knowledge and understanding the global dimensions of sexual rights and liberation movements.

Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex places a strong emphasis on bridging academic learning with industry engagement, and the MA Sexual Dissidence program is no exception. Students benefit from the university’s close connections with a range of organizations that work on sexual rights, social justice, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. These include NGOs, community organizations, and governmental bodies focused on gender equality and sexual rights. Through internships, collaborations, and guest lectures, students gain practical insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field of sexual dissidence, while also developing skills that are crucial for working in activism, policy-making, and research.

Global Perspective: The MA Sexual Dissidence at Sussex offers a global perspective on the study of sexuality and sexual dissidence. The program explores how issues of sexual rights, gender nonconformity, and LGBTQ+ advocacy are experienced and understood around the world. Students will examine global sexual rights movements, including the intersection of sexuality with race, migration, and globalization. The university's diverse international student body and its faculty's engagement in global scholarship provide students with a broader, more inclusive understanding of the complex and changing nature of sexual dissidence worldwide. The program’s global perspective also allows students to explore how sexual liberation movements are shaped by cultural, legal, and political contexts across different regions.

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 65% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.

Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.

Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.

Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.

Graduates of the MA in Sexual Dissidence from the University of Sussex possess a diverse skill set that opens the door to numerous career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. With a focus on critical theory, social change, and global perspectives on sexuality, this program equips students with the tools necessary to engage in careers that challenge traditional societal norms and promote social justice. 

LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate: Graduates with a passion for activism can work as advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in both local and international organizations. They can take on roles that involve raising awareness of sexual rights, campaigning for policy change, and working to eliminate discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. NGOs, advocacy groups, and human rights organizations are primary employers in this field.

Policy Analyst and Researcher: Many graduates find positions as policy analysts or researchers focusing on issues related to gender equality, sexual rights, and social justice. Working within government agencies, think tanks, or international bodies such as the United Nations or the European Union, graduates analyze data, create reports, and advise policymakers on critical issues affecting marginalized sexual and gender groups.

Community Organizer and Social Justice Advocate: Graduates of the program are well-equipped to work as community organizers, mobilizing communities around issues of sexual rights, gender equality, and social justice. They work with grassroots organizations to promote collective action, organize protests, and drive local campaigns aimed at addressing inequality and oppression.

Gender and Sexuality Consultant: Some graduates choose to become consultants for organizations, educational institutions, or corporations looking to improve their understanding of gender and sexual diversity. These consultants may provide training, develop policies, or design programs that promote inclusivity, sexual health, and respect for diverse sexual identities within organizations.

Sexual Health Educator: Graduates can work as sexual health educators, delivering educational programs and workshops that focus on sexual rights, health, and well-being. This may involve working with schools, universities, community centers, or health organizations to provide accurate and inclusive information about sexual health, consent, and gender identity.

Academic and Research Career: For those interested in further academic pursuits, the MA Sexual Dissidence provides a strong foundation for pursuing a PhD or an academic career. Graduates can contribute to the field through research, teaching, and publishing scholarly work in areas related to queer theory, gender studies, and sexual politics. Universities and research institutions offer opportunities for teaching and advanced research in these fields.

Public Relations and Media Specialist: Graduates with strong communication skills can pursue careers in media, journalism, or public relations. They may work for media outlets, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups, using media to challenge societal norms around sexuality and gender. Writing, public speaking, and social media advocacy are key aspects of these roles.

Human Rights Officer: Working for international organizations or NGOs, graduates can take on roles as human rights officers, advocating for the rights of marginalized sexual and gender groups. These professionals monitor and report on human rights abuses related to sexual orientation and gender identity, providing recommendations to governments and organizations for policy and legal reforms.

Social Entrepreneur: The MA Sexual Dissidence program can also inspire graduates to become social entrepreneurs. Graduates may launch organizations or businesses that focus on promoting sexual rights, supporting LGBTQ+ communities, or addressing social injustices related to sexuality. This may involve offering counseling, legal services, or community-building activities aimed at empowering individuals and groups affected by sexual marginalization.

Cultural and Diversity Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as cultural and diversity specialists, helping institutions such as universities, government agencies, or corporations implement inclusive practices. These professionals work on developing strategies to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational settings, workplaces, and public institutions by promoting respect for sexual and gender diversity.