University of Warwick

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical and methodological training with specialised taught modules and an independent dissertation. Core teaching focuses on contemporary debates in feminist theory, queer theory, intersectionality, histories of sexuality and critical approaches to gendered representation. Students engage with interdisciplinary methods drawn from sociology, cultural studies, literary and film studies, history and anthropology.

• Core topics: feminist and queer theory, histories of sexuality, intersectionality and race, gender and the state, and critical debates about identity and embodiment.
• Methods and research training: qualitative methods, archival work, discourse analysis, ethnography and approaches to designing and conducting a substantial piece of independent research.
• Optional modules: depending on availability, options may include gender and media, sexuality and visual culture, gender, work and labour, migration and gender, and health, reproduction and bioethics.
• Dissertation: a substantial independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing in-depth study of a chosen topic drawing on primary and/or secondary sources.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree with a strong academic record in a relevant discipline such as sociology, history, English, cultural studies, anthropology, politics or a related field. Candidates with equivalent professional experience or qualifications in areas such as advocacy, activism, policy or community work may also be considered. Selection will be based on academic merit, research potential and the strength of supporting materials.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit a sample of written work and a research proposal or personal statement outlining their interests and suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers that draw on the programme's analytical, research and communication skills. Common pathways include further academic study and PhD research, roles in equality, diversity and inclusion, policy and human rights organisations, non-governmental and community organisations, cultural institutions and museums, journalism and media, education and outreach, and research positions in think-tanks or public bodies.

The programme is particularly suited to those aiming for work in advocacy, policy formation, public-facing research, or roles that require critical engagement with gender and sexuality in social and cultural contexts.

Why study at University of Warwick

Warwick offers an interdisciplinary environment with research-led teaching and access to scholars working across gender, sexuality and cultural studies. Students benefit from a compact campus with strong library collections, seminar series, guest lectures and research events that bring academic and practitioner perspectives together. The university’s careers and enterprise services provide support for professional development, placements and networking, while supervision for the dissertation is provided by staff with expertise in a wide range of thematic and methodological areas.

Studying at Warwick places students in a research-intensive institution where interdisciplinary collaboration and critical approaches to contemporary social issues are encouraged, helping to prepare graduates for both academic and applied careers engaging with gender and sexuality.