Overview

Birkbeck, University of London, is renowned for its strong emphasis on research, particularly in the fields of gender and sexuality studies. The institution has established itself as a leader in this discipline, fostering an environment that encourages innovative thinking and critical analysis. The Gender and Sexuality MPhil/PhD programme is designed for students interested in exploring a wide range of themes related to gender and sexuality, drawing from various disciplines including social sciences, arts, and humanities.

Why Gender and Sexuality at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck is ranked among the top research-intensive universities globally, with a reputation for excellence confirmed by the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, where 83% of its research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. The programme benefits from close ties to the Birkbeck Gender and Sexuality (BiGS) research group, which promotes scholarly exchange and collaboration, enhancing the academic experience for students.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the academic year 2025–26, the tuition fees for the Gender and Sexuality MPhil/PhD programme are as follows:

• Part-time home students: £2,656 per year
• Full-time home students: £5,006 per year
• Part-time international students: £7,870 per year
• Full-time international students: £15,570 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme structure involves independent research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, with a focus on producing a dissertation of 60,000 to 100,000 words. Key areas of research interest include:

• Queer theory
• Feminist theory and research
• Masculinities
• Lesbian and gay writing and film
• Gender and generation
• Paid domestic work
• Food consumption habits
• Gender and geography
• Gender and education
• Gender, class, and citizenship
• Histories and theories of sexuality and gender
• Socio-legal dimensions of gender, sexuality, and HIV/AIDS

Careers with Gender and Sexuality

Graduates of the Gender and Sexuality MPhil/PhD programme can pursue a variety of career paths. Alumni have found positions in academia, public policy, and cultural institutions, contributing to sectors that require advanced understanding and analysis of gender and sexuality issues. The skills developed during the programme prepare students for roles that demand critical thinking and interdisciplinary knowledge.