Introduction
This new MA programme, offered for the first time in 2009-10, has been designed specifically to cater for students interested in the interdisciplinary study of gender in culture and society. Students can opt for modules offered by several departments in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and may choose to specialise in historical, socio-political or literary / cultural approaches to gender.
Objectives
- To provide students with an advanced understanding of gender as a social and cultural construct
- To provide students with knowledge of current historical, cultural, sociological, and/or political approaches to the study of gender
- To enable students to critically evaluate theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality
- To provide students with the opportunity for independent self-directed learning
- To enable students to enhance their intellectual and generic skills in preparation for further academic/and or professional work
- To enable students to develop knowledge and skills to design and conduct independent research
Programme Content
Students are required to take four core modules and four optional modules in a combination of lectures and seminar discussion. An additional and substantial research element includes: Assessed course research papers; and a dissertation of 15,000 words written on a topic of choice under the guidance of an appropriate supervisor.
Semester 1
Theoretical Approaches to Gender, Culture and Society I, Feminist Approaches to Research
Students must choose two modules among the following:
Qualitative Methods I, The History of Women, Medieval to Modern: Sources, Methods and Approaches, Researching Social Exclusion, Comparative Literature: Cultural Construction of the Past
Semester 2
Theoretical Approaches to Gender, Culture and Society II, Thesis Writing
Students must choose two modules among the following:
Feminism(s), Diaspora and Multiculturalism, Feminist Literary Theory, Researching Social Change, Feminist Perspectives on Conflict and Development Issues, Utopian Theory and Texts
Summer Semester
Dissertation
All elective modules may not be offered if student numbers are too small or if there are irresolvable timetable clashes.
Module Descriptors
Careers
The MA aims to equip students with transferable skills which will be attractive to employers in a wide range of occupation areas. The interdisciplinary nature of the MA means that it encourages intellectual flexibility, good imaginative and conceptual abilities, as well as strong interactive, communication, team-working and social skills. The programme also provides a sound basis for doctoral research.
Entrance Requirements
Primary degree in a relevant discipline with First or Second Class Honours or an approved equivalent qualification (Primary Degree: Level 8 NQAI). Candidates must be proficient in English.
Application Fee
An application fee will apply from January 2011 to all postgraduate programmes. Please see Frequently Asked Questions for more information on the application fee.
Tuition Fee
The University recognises that many students are experiencing serious financial constraints in the present economic climate. Accordingly the Fees Office will endeavour to accommodate, where possible, the payment of fees via an agreed instalment payment plan. For further details please contact the Fees Office at feesoffice@ul.ie. Click here for details on the fee schedule.
Contact
Dr Breda Gray, Department of Sociology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
Tel. +353 61 234207
Email breda.gray@ul.ie
