Gender Studies Programme - Master of Arts (M.A.) in Gender Studies

The M.A. Programme in Gender Studies is designed to provide a broad base of understanding on gender studies, to introduce basic theoretical and methodological tools in gender studies, and to analyze cutting-edge issues related to gender issues in the contemporary world. 

Pamphlet of MA in Gender Studies

(Click the images to enlarge)

Postgraduate leaflet 2023 1 Postgraduate leaflet 2023 2

Programme Objectives

The M.A. Programme in Gender Studies is designed to provide a broad base of understanding on gender studies, to introduce basic theoretical and methodological tools in gender studies, and to analyze cutting-edge issues related to gender issues in the contemporary world.

Programme Description

  • Through rigorous training in related theories and methodology, students are led to see how a seemingly private and intimate dimension of human existence, namely, sex and gender, actually impacts on and, at the same time, is being constructed by wider social, cultural, economic and political forces in various spheres and levels of a person's life. Critical reviews of the perpetuation of gender inequality in public policies, propped up by existing values and perceptions in society are also encouraged.
  • The Programme equips interested people with essential analytical tools for understanding sex, gender, gender issues and their impacts on human behaviour, social development and public policy.
  • Students are able to make use of analytical tools and multiple perspectives to understand gender issues and to become aware of gender inequality around them. The rigorous training in critical thinking is helpful, not only in raising students' gender awareness, but also in understanding the myriad complexities of social life.

Programme Features

  • The Programme is the only one taught master programme available in Hong Kong focusing on gender;
  • The Programme is distinguished from other humanities and social science programmes by its interdisciplinary nature of course offering. The programme draws on the theories and methodologies of diverse disciplines, including psychology, sociology, cultural studies, anthropology, history, philosophy, linguistics, media studies and education;
  • The Programme focuses on the gender dimension in the social, cultural and political arenas;
  • Incorporating theories developed in other countries into localized contexts has also added to the uniqueness of the Programme. The Programme roots in contemporary Hong Kong and Chinese societies while conversant with theoretical advances worldwide; attitudes, and which foster their critical thinking and ability to examine issues from multiple perspectives.
  • The small class size and interactive, rigorous and nurturing classroom environment provide students with adequate and inspiring discussions which stimulate their interest and mould their attitudes, and which foster their critical thinking and ability to examine issues from multiple perspectives;
  • Diversified learning activities like field trips to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and organic farms, invitation of guest speakers from frontline NGOs, social activist or minority groups (e.g. lesbian and sex workers' groups) to share with students, and usage of multi-media materials are arranged to enrich students' exposure, enlighten them on a variety of perspectives and enhance their awareness of the unique experience and background of different individuals.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students' horizons are broadened considerably and their gender awareness are deepened;
  • Students are inspired and encouraged to develop useful skills in learning and thinking as well as critical perspectives, while seeking the betterment of the society as they became concerned with injustice and discrimination in the world;
  • Students are led to reach beyond personal concerns to analyze the world passionately but objectively.

Career Opportunities and Further Study

MA in Gender Studies is beneficial to those whose work requires knowledge in gender studies, especially persons who in their occupational capacity design, make decisions on, and evaluate policies, projects that have a gender dimension. With the increasing emphasis on gender issues in the society, the graduates of Gender Studies are working in many different industries, especially social and medical welfare, media and creative art industries.

 

Who should apply?

It is beneficial to professionals whose work requires knowledge in gender studies, especially persons who in their occupational capacity design, make decisions on, and evaluate policies, projects that have a gender dimension. It is also suitable for individuals who are simply interested in gender studies as an intellectual and academic endeavour.

Period of study

Full-time: normative period: 1 year; Maximum period: 3 years;

Part-time: normative period: 2 years; Maximum period: 4 years.

Tuition Fee

Full-time: For 2024-25 HK$156,900 per annum (1-year programme) 

Part-time: For 2024-25 HK$78,450 per annum (2-year programme) 

Language

Medium of Instruction: English

Class Schedule

Most classes are arranged at weekday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and on Saturday afternoons from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Coursework Requirements

I. REQUIRED COURSE (6 CREDIT UNITS)

GDRS5011 Introduction to Gender Studies

GDRS5087 Feminist Methodology

II. ELECTIVE COURSES (18 CREDIT UNITS)

* The offering of elective courses is subjected to the decision of the programme. Not all courses are offered in every year.

  • Course CodeCourse TitleUnits
    GDRS4007 Gender, Sexuality and Race in Political Issues  3
    GDRS5030 Advanced Topics in Gender Studies I  1.5
    GDRS5040 Advanced Topics in Gender Studies II 1.5
    GDRS5050 Contemporary Women's Issues 3
    GDRS5083 Making Change: Feminism, Civil Society and Social Transformation 3
    GDRS5084 Diverse Genders and Sexualities: crossing the public/private divide 3
    GDRS5085 Gender and Work  3
    GDRS5086 Gender and Family  3
    GDRS5088 Chinese Women and Development 3
    GDRS5090 Special Topics in Gender Studies 
    3
    GDRS5131 Women and Literature 3
    GDRS5210 Gender and Law 3
    GDRS5403 Gender and History  3
    GDRS5640 Psychology and Gender  3
    GDRS5920 Gender and Media in the Digital Age 3
    ANTH5540 Anthropology of Gender, Sexuality, and The Law 3
    ANTH5670 Gender and Culture 3
    CULS5203 The Body in Culture and Art 3
    CULS5206 Gender, Love and Sexuality in Intercultural Studies  3
    CULS5216 Queer Movements and Sexual Politics 3
  • *Grades and other course-related matters are handled by each course-offering department.

    For the Study Scheme of MA in Gender Studies, please refer to here.

    For a brief description of the courses, please refer to here.

    Course Grades Release

    Course grades are released according to the schedule for releasing grades posted in the section ‘Academic Results’ on the GS Platform (Students). The academic results after the grade release date is accessible by following the path: MyCUHK > CUSIS and My Study > View My Grades and select the corresponding academic term.

    If you wish to lodge an appeal on the grade of a particular course, please approach the teacher concerned within two weeks from the date of release of the grade in question. No late application is accepted.

    Admission Requirements

    Please refer to the admission requirements to master programme in the Graduate School's website.

     

    Application Method

    Step 1

    Explore study/research options for MA in Gender Studies

    Learn about the admission requirements, application methods, required supporting documents and deadlines.

    Step 2

    Preparation for your application

    Prepare the documents/additional information required for application.

    Step 3

    Create an account to Submit Online Application

    Application for admission may be submitted from 1 September 2023.

    Step 4

    Ensure the required Supporting Documents are received by Gender Studies Programme by the application deadline

    A soft copy of all your supporting documents should be uploaded to the online application system.

    Admitted students are required to submit original copies of those official documents for verification by the conditions fulfillment deadline. The Gender Studies Programme will contact students separately in due course.

    Note: Please be reminded that, for the proof of English Language proficiency, TOEFL and IELTS scores are considered valid for two years from the test date while GMAT scores are considered valid for five years from the test date.

    Step 5

    Check your Application Status

    Check your email for correspondence from Gender Studies Programme and log in to the Online Application System to check your application status.

    Supporting Documents for Application

     Required supporting documents for application of MA in Gender Studies:  

    1. All the documents listed in the Graduate School’s website

    2. A CV 

    3. A  statement of purpose (in word or pdf format)

    • It can be written in English (500-words) or Chinese (1000 words)
    • It should state why you would like to pursue a postgraduate degree in Gender Studies.

    *Please upload an electronic copy of all your supporting documents to the online application system. For a CV or statement of purpose which do not have their own category in the upload system, please upload them under the "certificates" category.

     

    Application Deadline

    15 March 2024

    Applications will be processed on a rolling basis until all places have been filled. Therefore, early applications are strongly encouraged.

    Applications submitted after 15 March 2024 may be considered, subject to the availability of places.

     

     

    Admission Talks

    Applications will be processed on a rolling basis until all places have been filled. Therefore, early applications are strongly encouraged.

    Applications submitted after 15 March 2024 may be considered, subject to the availability of places.

     

    Subscribe

    * indicates required

     

    Enquiry

    Address:  Room 250, Sino Building, Chung Chi College,
    The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
    Tel:  (852) 3943 1429
    Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.