Program Overview

Sexuality and Gender Studies PhD / MA by Research

The University of Birmingham offers a PhD and MA by Research in Sexuality and Gender Studies, providing students with the opportunity to explore these fields beyond disciplinary boundaries. This program allows students to research alongside academics from across the university, each bringing their specialist expertise to the fields of Sexuality and Gender Studies.

Course Overview

The program enables students to research areas of Sexuality and Gender Studies that most interest them, with expert supervision from an interdisciplinary community of academic researchers. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and research to enhance their future.

Course Structure

• The PhD program is normally undertaken in three years full-time or six years part-time.
• The Masters-level research program is taken in one year full-time or two years part-time.
• The period of maximum registration for a PhD includes a further year, designated "thesis awaited," which is usually a period of final revisions and more occasional supervision.

Year One

The first year (or part-time equivalent) of a PhD usually includes a literature review specific to the thesis and topic. Students will begin to undertake their research and relevant training. For an MA by Research, these timescales are condensed into one year (or two years if studying part-time). The MA by Research is assessed by a thesis of 40,000 words. An oral examination may be held at the discretion of the examiners.

Course Highlights

• The interdisciplinary Sexuality and Gender research network draws on academic expertise across the University.
• Students can study on campus or by distance learning from anywhere in the world.
• Become part of a vibrant postgraduate research community, attending bespoke research training sessions and joining postgraduate seminar sessions.
• Join academic staff and postgraduate students engaging in cutting-edge research in gender theory, feminism, LGBT, and queer studies.
• Ranked Top 100 for Arts and Humanities in the world (QS 2025).

Course Delivery

• The program offers flexibility, allowing students to choose the mode of study that works for them: full-time, part-time, or distance learning.
• There are no formal lectures or seminars in a PhD or MA by Research. Instead, students will undertake research under the expert guidance of a primary supervisor, co-supervisor, and mentor, supported by complementary research training.
• Distance learning students will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students but with supervisory sessions taking place online.

Research Themes

• The research focuses on gender theory and feminism; LGBT and queer studies; and the critical history of medicine and sexual science (sexology, psychiatry).
• Explore our research themes: Sexuality & Gender Studies research.

Entry Requirements

• Merit in a Masters degree (for entry to a PhD).
• 2:1 Honours degree (for entry to an MA by Research).
• For MRes and MA by Research programs, a good (normally a 2:1 or above) Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification if educated outside the UK, usually in a relevant area.
• Any academic and professional qualifications or relevant professional experience are normally taken into account.
• International students will need to demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.
• Equivalent qualifications: TOEFL, Pearson Test of English (PTE), Cambridge English: C1 Advanced.

Fees and Scholarships

• Full-time: £5,181.
• Part-time: £2,591.
• The same fees apply to both campus-based and distance learning study.
• The distance learning program also includes one fully-funded visit to campus in the first year of study.
• International students applying for part-time study may have to choose our distance learning option, depending on visa status.
• Various scholarships and funding options are available, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Landscape Awards, College of Arts and Law Doctoral Scholarships, and the Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities.

Application Process

• To apply for a postgraduate research program, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online.
• When proposing their own research topic, students should ensure the department offers the necessary expertise and contact a potential supervisor before submitting their application.
• The research proposal is a key part of the application and should be a clear and concise summary of the proposed research project.
• Applications are accepted all year round, but students wishing to start in September are encouraged to apply by 1 June.

Career Opportunities

• The University is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits.
• Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on job applications, writing your CV, and improving your interview technique.
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
• The Careers Network offers a range of events and support services, including networking opportunities, career coaching, and links with leading graduate recruiters.

Student Experience

• The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including dedicated postgraduate halls and private accommodation close to campus.
• Living in Birmingham provides a unique experience, with the city being a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry.
• The campus is green and spacious, with a range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
• The university is committed to providing the best possible support to all students, ensuring they get the most out of their university experience.