Gender and Sexuality Studies

Gender and Sexuality Studies at University College London offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive exploration of the social, cultural, political, and historical aspects of gender and sexuality. This programme is designed for students interested in critically examining the ways in which gender and sexuality shape individual identities, social hierarchies, institutions, and global issues. Through engaging coursework, students develop a nuanced understanding of contemporary debates surrounding gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, feminist theory, and sexual politics. The programme incorporates diverse perspectives, including perspectives from different cultures and historical periods, fostering an inclusive and globally aware mindset. Students will explore key themes such as gender identity, sexual orientation, power dynamics, policy impacts, media representations, and activism. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in advocacy, research, education, policy-making, and community organizing. With opportunities for individual research projects, internships, and participation in seminars with leading scholars, students gain valuable skills and insights that enable them to contribute meaningfully to ongoing debates and social change. The programme is suitable for those aiming to critically engage with issues of social justice and equality and seeking to understand the complexities of gender and sexuality in contemporary society. Coursework is designed to encourage critical thinking, analytical skills, and intellectual independence. Graduates of the programme will be equipped with a deep understanding of the social constructions of gender and sexuality, as well as an awareness of the intersectionality of various social identities. This programme prepares students for further academic study or entry into diverse professional fields, including academia, non-governmental organizations, healthcare, public policy, media, and community activism. The learning environment is dynamic and inclusive, fostering dialogue, critical reflection, and activism aimed at promoting equality and human rights worldwide.

Research areas

Potential supervisors have a very varied set of research interests with a focus on many different parts of the world. Their interests include nationalism and sexuality; gender and urban development in the Global South; contemporary gay/queer cinema; feminist perspectives on family law and the home;gender and sexuality in medieval and modern European literature and in Israeli literature: children in Chinese literature; sexuality, migration and health; gender in Chinese medicine; and cultural discourses of AIDS.

• 5 year Specialist Diploma with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0
• Bachelor's degree with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Advanced level: Score of 109 overall 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening
• British Council International Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Version). Advanced level: Overall grade of 7.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.

The University College London (UCL) offers various funding opportunities for students enrolling in their Gender and Sexuality Studies programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a range of scholarships, bursaries, and funding sources to support their studies. UCL provides institutional scholarships such as the UCL Graduate Research Scholarships, which are available for postgraduate research students, including those in Gender and Sexuality Studies. Additionally, students may be eligible for department-specific funding, such as the UCL Social Science and Health Department scholarships, aimed at supporting students pursuing interdisciplinary research in social sciences and health, which includes gender and sexuality topics.

External funding options are also available, including national and international scholarships. For example, the UK Government's Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarships offer substantial financial support for eligible students from certain countries. European funding opportunities may be accessible for students with specific nationalities or residency statuses. Students are encouraged to explore charitable foundations and organizations that promote gender equality and sexual diversity, as these often offer grants or fellowships pertinent to their field.

UCL also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities, allowing students to supplement their funding through university-approved employment or internships. Students can access financial advising through UCL Student Finance to plan their budgets effectively and stay informed about application deadlines and eligibility criteria. Overall, the university emphasizes comprehensive financial planning and supports students in securing diverse funding sources to facilitate their academic pursuits in Gender and Sexuality Studies.

Gender and Sexuality Studies at University College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding issues related to gender, sexuality, and identity within various social, cultural, and political contexts. The program aims to explore diverse perspectives and critical theories to analyze how gender and sexuality influence individual experiences and societal structures. Students engage with a wide range of topics, including feminist theory, queer theory, masculinity and femininity, LGBTQ+ rights, and the societal implications of gender norms and policies. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and encourage students to question conventional narratives about gender and sexuality, promoting an inclusive understanding of identities and experiences.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in research, participate in seminars, and undertake projects that deepen their understanding of contemporary issues related to gender and sexuality. The program also emphasizes the importance of social activism, policy analysis, and cultural studies, equipping graduates with the skills needed for careers in academia, social services, advocacy, journalism, and public policy. As part of UCL's commitment to interdisciplinary education, students may collaborate across faculties and participate in various extracurricular activities, such as lectures, workshops, and conferences focused on gender and sexuality topics.

The program's faculty members are experts in fields including sociology, anthropology, history, and cultural studies, providing students with a rich academic environment rooted in diverse scholarly traditions. UCL's location in London offers students access to a vibrant city with numerous organizations, campaigns, and events dedicated to gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. The program may also include opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and participation in community engagement projects, allowing students to gain practical experience and contribute positively to society.

In sum, Gender and Sexuality Studies at UCL provides students with critical analysis tools, theoretical knowledge, and practical skills to understand and influence the ongoing conversations around gender and sexuality in contemporary society. It is designed to prepare graduates to think critically about complex social issues, advocate for equality, and pursue careers in varied sectors dedicated to social justice, human rights, and cultural change.