Course Summary
The Graduate Diploma in Gender Studies focuses on the way in which gender shapes/is shaped by society and explores how gender and inequality are intertwined. The programme is a rigorous, interdisciplinary and dynamic programme of learning in feminisms, sexualities, masculinities, gender debates, politics and activisms. A global, decolonial and intersectional perspective informs the programme, offering a complex understanding of how oppression and discrimination operate across society, politics and the economy.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Gender Studies Studies programmes, based in School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice at UCD are aimed at, but not exclusive to, applicants who have already completed an undergraduate degree in sociology, politics, history or other relevant fields and are interested in exploring further how gender plays a crucial role in the way we see the world and in how the world is organised.
Applicants are required to have a minimum of a 2.2 Honours or international equivalent in a honours level Bachelors degree (NFQ Level 8).
Applicants whose first language is not English also require proof of English language proficiency. English language certificates and the level of proficiency that the school requires is detailed https://www.ucd.ie/global/study-at-ucd/undergraduate/entryrequirements/
Applicants should also submit the contact details for two referees, at least one of whom should know you in an academic capacity, as well as a personal statement (circa 4-500 words) explaining why you are interested in studying this course.
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax
Application Details
The following entry routes are available:
Graduate Diploma Gender Studies FT (W381)
1 year full-time
Deadline: Rolling*
Graduate Diploma Gender Studies PT (W382)
2 years part-time
Deadline: Rolling*
* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised.
Commencing September 2025
Fees
GradDip Gender Studies (W381) Full Time
EU fee per year - € 6710
nonEU fee per year - € 15070
GradDip Gender Studies (W382) Part Time
EU fee per year - € 4340
nonEU fee per year - € 7540
***Fees are subject to change
Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website. Please note that UCD offers a number of graduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD graduate degree programme. For further information please see International Scholarships.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Graduates work in Amnesty International, Immigrant Council of Ireland, Crisis Pregnancy Programme, Médecins Sans Frontières, National Broadcasting Authority, RTE, and the National Women’s Council of Ireland.
Duration
W382 - Part Time: 2 Years