Women, Gender and Society

The Women, Gender and Society programme at University College Dublin offers a comprehensive exploration of the social, cultural, political, and economic constructs surrounding gender and women's studies. Designed for students interested in examining the complexities of gender identities, inequalities, and societal roles, this programme combines interdisciplinary approaches to foster critical thinking and social awareness. Throughout the course, students will engage with contemporary issues such as gender violence, feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, intersectionality, and the impact of globalization on gender norms. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical research, allowing students to develop advanced analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of gender dynamics across different contexts. The programme features a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects, encouraging active participation and intellectual curiosity. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with experts in the field, participate in debates, and conduct independent research, culminating in a dissertation or major project. The programme also emphasizes practical skills like policy analysis, advocacy, and public engagement, equipping graduates to pursue careers in academia, social justice organizations, policy development, media, or community activism. With a diverse student body and faculty, the programme fosters an inclusive learning environment that promotes diversity and equality. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to discussions on gender issues and to effect positive change in their communities and beyond. The Women, Gender and Society programme at UCD aims to empower students with knowledge and skills to challenge inequalities and to become advocates for social justice in a rapidly changing world.

Core modules

• Feminist & Egalitarian Research
• Gender Theory: Critical Themes
• Gender and Globalisation
• Gender, Inequality and Public Policy

Optional

• Human Rights Law and Equality
• Education and Equality
• Masculinities, Gender and Equality
• Feminist & Gender Theory
• Race, Space and Place
• Women's Studies Minor Thesis
• Gender War and Violence
• Reproductive Justice and Sexual Justice 

Requirements

• At least a second class honours overall result in a primary degree.
• Transcripts from your degree.
• A statement of your interest in the programme (circa one page): why you would like to receive an offer for a place on this programme.
• Names and contact details for two referees.
• You will find the application details under the taught postgraduate programmes in the College of Human Sciences: School of Social Justice.
• If English is not your native language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, an English language qualification is required for all programmes.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English-language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element) or equivalent.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Women, Gender and Society program at University College Dublin offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students typically have access to a variety of scholarships, grants, and bursaries provided by the university as well as external funding bodies. UCD's scholarship programs are designed to assist students based on academic merit, financial need, or specific demographic criteria, including gender-related initiatives. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship opportunity to maximize their chances of receiving financial assistance.

In addition to scholarships, students may benefit from government-funded student support schemes such as Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI), which provides grants to eligible Irish students to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. International students should explore whether they qualify for any scholarships or grants offered specifically to overseas applicants, which can vary annually. The university also partners with several external organizations and charitable foundations that offer financial aid for students studying women, gender, and society or related fields.

UCD provides guidance and financial planning advice to help students manage the costs associated with their degree, including potential part-time work during term or summer, which can help offset expenses. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and program duration but are generally competitive within Ireland’s higher education landscape. Tuition fee payment plans are available to assist students in managing their payments conveniently over the academic year.

Furthermore, the university promotes awareness of access programs and initiatives aimed at increasing participation among underrepresented groups, including women and students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Students are encouraged to consult the university's official financial aid office and relevant online resources regularly for up-to-date information on available funding opportunities. Overall, financing a degree in Women, Gender and Society at UCD involves a combination of university-based scholarships, government assistance, external funding, and personal financial planning, ensuring that eligible students can pursue their academic goals without undue financial burden.

Women, Gender and Society at University College Dublin is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to explore the multifaceted aspects of gender, sexism, and social equality within contemporary society. The program examines the historical development of gender roles, analyzing how societal expectations and cultural norms shape the experiences and opportunities of women and marginalized genders. It offers students a rigorous understanding of feminist theories, gender identities, intersectionality, and social justice issues, equipping them with critical perspectives necessary to interpret gender dynamics in various contexts.

Throughout the course, students engage with a wide array of topics including gender inequalities in education, employment, healthcare, and politics. They study the impact of legislation, activism, and social movements on gender rights and explore the intersections of gender with race, class, sexuality, and disability. The program emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake independent studies, critical analyses, and fieldwork projects that contribute to current discourses in gender studies.

The curriculum features a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects, fostering an interactive classroom environment. Students also benefit from guest lectures by experts in the field, participation in conferences, and opportunities for internships with relevant organizations. The program prepares graduates for diverse careers in academia, public policy, non-governmental organizations, media, and advocacy groups, focusing on promoting gender equality and social inclusion.

Furthermore, the program integrates practical components such as community engagement initiatives, advocating for social change, and promoting awareness of gender issues in society. It also encourages students to develop their own critical voices through research papers, presentations, and seminars. The interdisciplinary approach ensures a broad perspective, combining insights from sociology, psychology, history, law, and political science, allowing students to understand the complexities of gender and society from multiple angles. Overall, Women, Gender and Society at University College Dublin aims to educate informed, empathetic, and proactive individuals committed to addressing gender disparities and fostering equitable communities worldwide.