Women, Violence and Conflict MA
Campus East, United Kingdom
Master of Arts in Women, Violence and Conflict
University of York
Gender & Sexuality Studies / Sociology
Program Overview: MA Women, Violence and Conflict
The MA in Women, Violence and Conflict at the University of York is designed for students who want to broaden their theoretical perspective on women, violence, and conflict through applying feminist theoretical approaches and a gendered lens. Housed within the Centre for Women's Studies, one of the most well-established bases for feminist and gender-oriented teaching and research in the UK, this program offers an intellectually rigorous and supportive learning environment.
Through interdisciplinary study, you will focus on the concept of gender and how to make sense of that category intersectionally, drawing on methods and perspectives from across the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The program's specialist focus on gendered experiences of violence and conflict provides the advanced knowledge suitable for further study and careers in organisations engaging with human rights, politics, and welfare support.
You will develop the ability to plan, design, and undertake a substantial independent research project on the subject of violence and conflict, applying appropriate feminist theories and methodologies. Graduates are well-placed for careers in related fields or to pursue doctoral research, having developed enhanced analytical and critical thinking skills alongside the ability to communicate complex ideas with nuance.
Key Program Highlights
- Based in the Centre for Women's Studies, founded in 1984 and home to a thriving international community of scholars and students
- Interdisciplinary learning drawing from Sociology, English and Related Literature, and other departments across the university
- Specialist focus on gendered experiences of violence and conflict with intersectional feminist approaches
- Russell Group university ranked 169th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and Gold-rated for teaching excellence
Curriculum & Modules
The MA Women, Violence and Conflict comprises 180 credits in total, including core modules, option modules, and a dissertation. You will choose two option modules, including one methodology module and one other option, allowing you to tailor the program to your specific research interests and career goals.
Gender and Violence
Core ModuleThis core module examines the relationship between gender and violence through feminist theoretical frameworks. You will critically analyse how violence is experienced, perpetuated, and resisted in gendered ways across different social and cultural contexts.
Women, Citizenship and Conflict
Core ModuleExplore how conflict shapes women's experiences of citizenship and belonging. This module examines gendered dimensions of armed conflict, displacement, and post-conflict reconstruction through interdisciplinary feminist analysis.
Feminist Research Methodologies
Option Module (Methodology)Develop your understanding of feminist approaches to research design, data collection, and analysis. This module equips you with the practical skills needed for your dissertation and future academic or professional research work.
Introduction to Qualitative Methods and Data Analysis
Option Module (Methodology)Gain foundational skills in qualitative research methods including interviews, ethnography, and discourse analysis. You will learn to design qualitative research projects and analyse data using established analytical frameworks.
Introduction to Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis
Option Module (Methodology)Build competence in quantitative research techniques including survey design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation. This module provides an alternative methodological toolkit for those interested in empirical approaches to gender research.
Dissertation
60 CreditsComplete a 12,000-word dissertation on a topic related to women, violence, and/or conflict. This is an opportunity to further develop and apply your skills to a research question and specialise in a particular area or research technique.
Available Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The MA Women, Violence and Conflict welcomes applicants from a variety of academic backgrounds who demonstrate a strong interest in gender studies, feminist theory, and related fields. Applications from mature students and those returning to education are also encouraged. To discuss your eligibility or begin your application, contact Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree ClassificationUpper second-class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a related subject
- Relevant Subject AreasGender studies, sociology, politics, history, literature, cultural studies, law, or related humanities and social science disciplines
- Non-Standard QualificationsApplications from those with other qualifications may be considered on their merits, particularly with high marks in relevant modules
- Professional ExperienceRelevant professional experience in areas such as human rights, social work, or advocacy may strengthen your application
- Mature StudentsApplications are welcomed from mature students and those returning to education after a career break
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent). Contact Uni4Edu for current data.
- TOEFL iBTOverall 87 with a minimum of 21 in each component (or equivalent). Contact Uni4Edu for current data.
- PTE AcademicOverall 61 with a minimum of 55 in each component (or equivalent). Contact Uni4Edu for current data.
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of York offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support international postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can guide you through the available options and help you identify the best funding opportunities for your circumstances.
International Masters Achievement Scholarship
This scholarship is designed to help international postgraduate students excel at the University of York. It is open to students from a range of countries including the USA, Canada, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application support.
GREAT Scholarship (British Council Partnership)
GBP 10,000 tuition fee reductionOffered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, this scholarship supports students from select countries pursuing one-year postgraduate taught courses. Eligible nationalities and application details may change annually; contact Uni4Edu for the latest information.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Various (fully funded opportunities available)The University of York is a host institution for the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. Various opportunities are available throughout the year for students from Commonwealth countries. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application timelines.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA Women, Violence and Conflict are well-prepared for careers in organisations that engage with issues around human rights, politics, and welfare support. The program also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral research in gender studies, conflict studies, or related disciplines.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers of Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
The University of York is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and consistently ranks among the top universities in the United Kingdom and globally. Its strong performance in teaching and research is reflected across multiple international ranking systems, and it is one of only four UK universities to hold both a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework award and a top-ten position for research quality.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Sociology | QS World Subject Rankings | #88 |
| Social Policy & Administration | QS World Subject Rankings | #41 |
| Arts & Humanities (Broad Subject) | QS World Subject Rankings | #75 |
| English Language & Literature | QS World Subject Rankings | #32 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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