University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This major introduces core concepts in feminist thinking, queer theory, intersectionality and sexualities studies, and combines theoretical work with applied and empirical research. You will study foundations such as introductory gender theory and histories of feminism and queer movements, and progress to specialised topics like gender, work and labour; sexuality, health and reproductive politics; gendered violence and law; and media, representation and popular culture.

• Foundations of Gender and Sexuality Studies (key concepts and histories)
• Feminist and Queer Theory
• Intersectionality: race, class, indigeneity and disability
• Sexualities, Health and Reproduction
• Gender, Work and Organisations
• Law, Policy and Gendered Violence
• Research Methods in the Social Sciences (qualitative and mixed methods)
• Capstone project, honours or supervised research options for advanced students

The programme is taught through lectures, seminars and research-led workshops, with assessment by essays, research projects, presentations and policy briefs. Students can combine the major with other BA majors such as Politics, Media, Sociology, History or International Relations, and there are opportunities for community placements and internships with NGOs and government agencies.

Entry requirements

Entry is at undergraduate level to the Bachelor of Arts. Domestic applicants are typically expected to have completed an Australian senior secondary qualification or equivalent; selection is competitive and based on overall academic achievement. International applicants must present an equivalent secondary qualification and meet the University's English language requirements. The University also offers alternative pathways for mature-age applicants and those with vocational or tertiary study.

There are no strict subject prerequisites for the Gender and Sexuality Studies major, but prior study in humanities, social sciences or related fields is beneficial. Applicants considering honours should note that higher academic performance in the major is required to be eligible for the honours year.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills in critical thinking, qualitative research, written and oral communication, policy analysis and community engagement. These are applicable to a wide range of careers, including:

• Policy and public service roles in local, state and federal government
• Work in non-government and community organisations, particularly those focused on human rights, gender equity and sexual health
• Journalism, media and public communications, including specialised reporting on gender and social issues
• Human resources, diversity & inclusion roles in private and public sectors
• Further study and research careers, including postgraduate study in social sciences, public policy, social work, education or law
• Advocacy, program development and community education roles in health, legal and social services

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers an interdisciplinary approach to Gender and Sexuality Studies, taught by scholars active in research on gender, sexuality and social justice. Students benefit from small-group tutorials, research-led teaching and access to public lectures and events that connect academic study with community and policy debates.

The university’s location provides links to government departments, cultural institutions and community organisations in Adelaide, creating practical placement and networking opportunities. The BA's flexible structure also enables students to combine the major with complementary disciplines, tailoring their degree to specific career goals or postgraduate pathways.