MA/MS in Gender Studies

General Description: Objective(s) of a study programme: The program aims to prepare highly qualified sociologists with critical analysis, scientific and practical work skills, who are able to systematically analyze relevant societal phenomena and challenges related to gender categories established in social relations and institutes, to prepare and implement sociological research projects in accordance to the research ethics, to propose possible solutions to social problems related to gender norms on the basis of the results of sociological research, to work in a multicultural environment, to plan independently and to pursue a professional career. Learning outcomes: 1.1. Awareness and ability to reflect and critically evaluate classical and modern social theories, reasonably choose and apply them in the research of gender related topics. 1.2. Capacity to examine and evaluate reflexively the complex gender related issues on the local and global level, using appropriate methodological approach and identifying their links with specific social structures, interactions, and practices 2.1. Capacity to make independent decisions related to relevant methodological approach including selection, development, evaluation of limitations and reflexive application of different methods in the research of gender related issues. 2.2. Ability to organise and conduct a research of social trends and their impact on gender issues applying quantitative and qualitative research and data analysis methods and in compliance with ethical and legal requirements of conducting social research. 3.1. Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and diverse environment, particularly related to the differences of values, perceptions and modes of behaviour informed by ethnic origin, religion, gender etc., ability to reflect one’s personal position taking social diversity into consideration. 3.2. Awareness of special features of sociological work in the public, private, governmental and non-governmental sector, the need for inter institutional cooperation in strategic decision-making in the broad field of gender issues. 3.3. Ability to communicate clearly research findings for professional and non-professional audience, to formulate recommendations for social policy implications. 4.1. Acquisition of teamwork and collaborative problem solving skills in accordance with the principles of equality, responsibility and professional ethics. 4.2. Ability to create and maintain networks with other professionals, readiness for effective professional communication with politics, managers, administrative staff, journalists and other key actors on gender-related topics. 5.1. Ability to formulate tasks of their further studies, constantly update the knowledge in the field, take an interest in innovations and activities of professionals in the field. 5.2. Critical and strategic thinking, ability to work independently, to set professional goals and pursue them effectively and timely, capacity to develop and manage projects. Activities of teaching and learning: Lecturing, seminars, literature analysis, research-based methods, group work, discussion, preparation of a presentation, brainstorm, case studies and comparative analysis, preparation of a research paper analysis of films and other visual texts (photography, painting, advertising, performances, memos, etc.), essay, creative tasks etc. Methods of assessment of learning achievements: Group discussion, (analytical) tasks in class, written paper, individual research project, (final) essay, test, written survey, presentation of a performed analysis, presentation of a research paper, presentation of a film review, feminist remix critiques of visual culture, exam, master’s thesis etc. Framework: Study subjects (modules), practical training: Fundamental Traditions of Sociological Thought (introductory course for non- sociologists); Social Research Methods (introductory course for non-sociologists); Contemporary Social Theory; Sociology of Gender and Sexuality; Gender and Politics; Quantitative research methods and analysis; Qualitative Methodology in Gender Research; Gender and Human Rights: Legal Systems and Practices; Gender Equality in Practice; Master’s Thesis: Research Seminar; Critical Masculinity Studies; Gender, Media and Visual Culture; Sociology of Emotions; Feminism: Politics, Theory, Practice; Gender Studies in Science and Technology; Gender at Work; Master Thesis. Specialisations: - Optional courses: Critical Masculinity Studies; Gender, Media and Visual Culture; Sociology of Emotions; Feminism: Politics, Theory, Practice; Gender Studies in Science and Technology; Gender at Work. Distinctive features of a study programme: The programme is prepared on the basis of experience of Western universities and the relevant research and pedagogical potential of European Humanities University as well as invited foreign experts. The distinctive features of the given study programme are the following:  combination of theory and practice, research and projects’ activities focused on gender dimension;  the development of research skills is particularly strengthened;  the interdisciplinary approach that provide students with solid knowledge of gender dimension in such fields as law, political sciences etc.;  all courses are taught in English;  it is the only master’s programme in Gender Studies in Lithuania and Belarus;  it helps to establish professional ties with gender scholars, organisations and networks on local and European scale.  it is based on more than 20 years of research of gender studies at the European Humanities Uuniversity. Access to professional activity or further study: Access to professional activity: Graduates of the program may find employment in national and international organisations and institutions that pay attention to gender, ethnicity, social inclusion, such as:  governmental organisations (ministries and agencies related to social and cultural affairs, family matters, education and equality);  NGOs dealing with domestic and public violence, human rights and equal opportunities;  other institutions that promote expertise in the field of gender, diversity, policy and culture;  HR departments and agencies;  culture and media sector;  academia etc. Access to further study: Graduates of the program may continue studies in the joint doctoral program of philosophy of Vytautas Magnus University, European Humanities University and Lithuanian Culture Research Institute, choose doctoral programs in social sciences, humanities and art at both Lithuanian and foreign universities, or preparatory doctoral studies in foreign higher education institutions.