MA (Gender, Globalisation and Rights)

Course details

The MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights is a flagship programme of the Centre for Global Women’s Studies at NUI Galway. It offers a unique opportunity for in-depth study of the gender dimensions of globalisation and global issues, through an interdisciplinary programme that combines the fields of: gender and women’s studies, international development, human rights, and peace and conflict studies. Students acquire the theoretical, conceptual and practical tools needed to apply a gender perspective and undertake gender analyses in relevant domains of practice and employment at local, national and international levels, as well as for advanced research at doctoral level and beyond. In addition to modules on globalisation, development, human rights, gender and feminist theory, health and sexuality, women in agriculture, historical perspectives, and peace and conflict, skills-based modules are offered in research methods, applied gender analysis and empowerment. Students also have the opportunity to undertake an accredited, professional placement with a relevant organisation working on issues related to programme themes.

Scholarship Opportunities 2015-2016

• Successful EU applicants who have earned a first class undergraduate degree and have been accepted onto the MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights are eligible to apply for an excellence scholarship.
• Successful international (non-EU students) are eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Merit Scholarship.
• All successful applicants are also eligible to apply for one of two €500 assistantships each semester in the Centre for Global Women’s Studies.

Key facts

Entry requirements

Applicants must have attained second-class honours or better in a primary degree in a relevant discipline (at National Framework of Qualifications Level 8), or equivalent international qualification (minimum GPA 3.00 out of 4.00). Publication/professional experience as deemed suitable by the College of Arts may be considered where the formal requirements are not completely satisfied.

Course outline

The MA involves completion of 90 credits (ECTS) including a minor dissertation (30 credits). Two modules (10 credits each) examine the gender dimensions of globalisation and human rights respectively, including in-depth discussion of key concepts and practice, and initiatives to advance gender equality, in each domain. A third 10-credit module introduces students to major debates in gender and feminist theory. A module on research methods is also completed (5 credits). In addition to these core modules, students choose 25 credits from a range of options including the professional placement module (10 credits) and/or a selection of 5-credit options including: Applied Gender Analysis; Women, Conflict and Security; Historical Perspectives on Women and Gender; Sexuality and Global Health Crises; Human Rights and Development; and Women in Irish Agriculture. Practical workshops are offered throughout the year to strengthen academic research and writing skills and other aspects of professional development. Modules are assessed on the basis of final essays, learning journals, practical assignments, in-class presentations, and, in the case of the placement, a portfolio, including an applied project agreed with the host organisation. Placement hosts include local, national and international organisations and agencies concerned with advancing equality, development, peace and human rights. The dissertation module includes research and methods workshops, group work, and one-to-one supervision.