MA Gender Studies

Program Overview

The MA in Gender Studies at the University of Leeds offers a deep and nuanced exploration of gender, sexuality, and intersectionality, focusing on their roles in both historical and contemporary social contexts. The program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in gender theory, alongside the skills needed to critically analyze gendered experiences across various social settings. Students engage with key topics such as feminist theory, LGBTQ+ studies, global gender issues, gender and politics, and the intersections of race, class, and gender. Through a combination of theoretical and empirical approaches, students examine the ways in which gender shapes and is shaped by cultural, political, and economic forces. This program also emphasizes the development of practical research skills, preparing students for careers in academia, policy, or social activism.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in Gender Studies at Leeds is carefully structured to offer a mix of core modules, optional courses, and an independent research project. Key modules include Feminist Theory, Gender and Sexuality, and Researching Gender, which provide students with essential theoretical and methodological tools. In addition, students can select from a range of optional modules tailored to their interests, including topics such as Gender, Race, and Migration, Queer Theory, Gender and Global Politics, and Transnational Feminism. The program also culminates in a dissertation, where students undertake independent research on a gender-related topic of their choice, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world gender issues. This flexibility allows students to personalize their learning experience, ensuring that they can focus on areas of gender studies that are most relevant to their career aspirations.

Research Focus: The University of Leeds is known for its robust research agenda in the field of gender studies, with particular emphasis on feminist theory, intersectionality, and social justice. Research at Leeds explores a wide range of topics related to gender, including the impact of gender on social structures, global gender politics, and the role of gender in shaping identity and cultural practices. Leeds is also recognized for its research on the experiences of marginalized groups, such as women of color, LGBTQ+ communities, and refugees, examining how gender intersects with race, class, and migration. The university’s expertise in critical social theory, as well as its commitment to addressing gender-based inequalities, positions it as a leading institution in the field of gender studies. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects and contribute their own work to this evolving academic field.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the MA in Gender Studies at Leeds, providing students with the opportunity to connect their academic learning to real-world gender issues. The university maintains strong relationships with a variety of organizations, including NGOs, governmental bodies, and advocacy groups that focus on gender equality, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ issues. Students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and seminars with professionals working in these fields, which offer valuable insights into gender-related policy and activism. Leeds also provides opportunities for internships and placements, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in gender-focused research, advocacy, and social work. These connections help to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that students graduate with not only academic knowledge but also practical skills relevant to the gender equality sector.

Global Perspective: The MA in Gender Studies at the University of Leeds offers a truly global perspective on gender, encouraging students to examine gender-related issues from both local and international contexts. The program explores the ways in which gender dynamics differ across cultures, regions, and political environments, with a focus on global gender justice. Students engage with topics such as the global feminist movement, transnational gender policies, and the gendered impacts of globalization and conflict. Leeds also promotes cross-cultural learning through study abroad opportunities, international collaborations, and research partnerships with global institutions. This international approach ensures that students develop a comprehensive understanding of how gender intersects with broader global issues, making them well-equipped to work on gender equality initiatives in diverse global settings.