Why study this course?
What is gender, and how does it interact with our thinking about equality, inclusion, and justice? In this course, you will explore these questions by studying gender theory and by critically examining contemporary debates on gender issues.
Highlights
- Introduces key topics in gender studies.
- Its interdisciplinary character helps you develop a more rounded understanding of gender studies questions and of its key questions and concepts.
- Prepares you for further academic study and research.
- Well-established links with the vibrant and diverse academic community at St Andrews will bring you into contact with current gender studies research across different disciplines.
The MLitt in Gender Studies is distinguished by its interdisciplinary character and by an emphasis on an intersectional understanding of gender.
You will be taught by experts drawn from a pool of 100 academics from 17 academic Schools across the University providing distinctive disciplinary perspectives on key topics in gender studies, including gender theory, masculinities, queer theory, and trans theory.
This will enable you to develop a well-rounded, interdisciplinary understanding of gender studies and the ability to solve complex problems by critical understanding, analysis, and synthesis.
The degree provides a broad programme of study culminating in a supervised research project. It will thus be of particular interest if you intend to progress to doctoral research. It will equip you with a range of essential skills that are highly valued in a variety of professional contexts (e.g. journalism, media studies, social work, advocacy work).
Teaching
Delivered through seminars, workshops, lectures, tutorials, and independent study.
Assessment
A mix of essays, reports, presentations, practical exercises, reflective exercises, and exams.
Modules
The MLitt is structured around three compulsory taught modules and optional modules are expected to be offered in the following areas:
- art history
- international development
- film studies
- philosophy
- politics
- international relations.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
The University of St Andrews’ global reputation makes its graduates highly valued by employers. The MLitt in Gender Studies provides subject knowledge and applied skills relevant to a range of career paths; it will be of particular interest if you intend to continue to doctoral research.
In addition to broadening your subject knowledge and applying established techniques of research and enquiry, you will develop and demonstrate essential skills including:
- critical thinking and creativity
- analysis and appraisal
- problem solving and decision making
- personal leadership and project management
- interpersonal communication and team working.
The University also offers two awards for all students known as the Saints Skills Awards. You can develop a range of skills through the Skills Builder Award or learn how to best articulate them through the Skills Spotlight Award. These skills are highly valued by employers and the awards are a good addition to your CV.
Further study
St Andrews offers a vibrant and stimulating research environment. One of the great strengths of a St Andrews research degree is the collegiate atmosphere which enables access to expertise beyond your formal supervisors and the ability to conduct interdisciplinary research.
Research students are supported by a supervisory team throughout their studies and are assessed by means of a substantial thesis of original research.
Why St Andrews?
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The MLitt in Gender Studies welcomes applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds including, but not limited to:
- anthropology
- cultural studies
- history
- liberal arts
- literary studies
- media studies
- philosophy
- politics.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- A CV or résumé. This should include your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date.
- A personal statement explaining:
- why you have applied for this course
- how it relates to your personal or professional ambitions
- how your academic and professional background show you have the skills needed to work effectively at postgraduate level.
- Two original signed academic references on headed paper.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £25,900
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 17 March 2025
