Applications are invited for 2013-2014 for the MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights at the Global Women’s Studies Centre, National University of Ireland Galway. The MA offers a unique opportunity to combine advanced study of global issues and human rights, through a practice-oriented, gender lens.

Two partial scholarships of €2,000 are available on a competitive basis. For information see: http://www.nuigalway.ie/faculties_departments/womens_studies/news_and_events/news_201302_ma.html
Extended deadline for partial scholarship applications: May 17th 2013

For information on other funding opportunities see: http://www.nuigalway.ie/soc/postgraduate/ma_ggr_funding.html

Programme Overview: A unique focus on gender, global issues and human rights

Through the programme, students gain a thorough understanding of the complex terrain of globalization and related global issues and policy processes, spanning topics from extreme poverty, armed conflict and politicized religion to human trafficking, gender-based violence and global health challenges (e.g., HIV/AIDS, maternal mortality, reproductive and sexual health). The MA also provides a solid grounding in international human rights practices with a focus on gender-aware and community-based approaches to human rights advocacy, implementation and monitoring. Particular attention is paid to developing conceptual and analytical skills in relation to multiple and intersectional aspects of identities and experiences that work in tandem with gender (e.g., socio-economic background, ‘race’, ethnicity, citizenship, ability/disability, age, sexual orientation, and so on) and translating this perspective into practice. In so doing, the programme aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify and analyse forms of multiple inequality and exclusion and to contribute effectively to policy research, advocacy and related processes aimed at addressing them.

A dynamic mix of academic learning and professional placement

Modules are delivered by lecturers and experts who combine extensive academic and practitioner experience in the areas covered by the course. In addition to a range of core and optional academic modules, students have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement of 8-10 weeks and to complete a minor research thesis. As such, the programme offers students an exciting combination of engagement with academic debates and ideas, hands-on practical assignments and professional experience, as well as support in honing advanced research and writing skills. The professional placement in particular gives students the opportunity to gain policy or advocacy work experience in a relevant professional setting. For students who may already have substantial qualifications and experience, the placement enables them to enhance their experience in a variety of ways or to embark on a new path. Placement hosts include organisations engaged in research, education, advocacy, policy processes and/or service provision in areas relevant to the MA themes, at local, national and/or international levels. Most recently, MA students have completed placements with: Amnesty International (Irish Section), Galway Rape Crisis Centre, Galway City Partnership (community development ), Gorta and Trocaire (international development organisations), Irish Congress of Trade Unions, National Women’s Council of Ireland, Pavee Point (Traveller and Roma rights) and Safe Ireland (domestic violence research and advocacy). Participants in the MA programme also have many opportunities to interact with an array of guest speakers and to establish many links beneficial to professional and career development.

Career Opportunities

The MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights will be of interest to recent graduates, local or international, experienced development and/or human rights practitioners, or mature students who wish to pursue career paths related to gender, global issues, policy processes and human rights. The programme has a strong practitioner focus that prepares students for work in a range of policy and advocacy roles in non-governmental, media, local and national government, EU and UN agencies and/or to pursue further advanced academic research, including doctoral study.

Programme Fees for Academic Year 2013-14
E.U. students: €€6,015 (plus student levy: €224)
Non-E.U. students: €13,250 (total)