Department of Gender Studies at London School of Economics and Political Science | About the University Department

The Department of Gender Studies at LSE is an internationally renowned centre for teaching and research in gender, sexuality and inequalities. Established in 1993, the department brings together world-leading academics and postgraduate students from diverse disciplinary and international backgrounds to explore gendered power relations and social change in a period of global transformation.

Why study at the Department of Gender Studies?

Study in one of the largest standalone Gender Studies departments in Europe

Learn from world-class academics exploring gender, sexuality and inequalities

Explore intersectional, interdisciplinary and transnational approaches to urgent global issues

Join a vibrant research culture with public lectures, conferences, fellows and visiting scholars

Develop knowledge for careers across government, NGOs, international organisations, academia and the private sector

8

courses

5th

in the World for Social Sciences and Management in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

London United Kingdom

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Upcoming Open Days & Webinars

November

2026

Multiple dates

London School of Economics and Political Science

Virtual Graduate Open Events

Virtual

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About the Department of Gender Studies

The Department of Gender Studies provides a focus for gender research at LSE and works closely with departments, centres and institutes across the School. Its teaching and research are grounded in intersectional, interdisciplinary and transnational approaches, enabling students to engage critically with gendered inequalities, power relations and social change. The department offers a range of master’s programmes and a stimulating PhD programme, attracting students from a wide range of academic backgrounds and countries. Its research culture is supported by resident research fellows, visiting scholars, public lectures and conferences, and is organised around broad clusters that connect gender research with key debates across the social sciences and humanities. Through its global networks, the department fosters collaboration between policymakers, practitioners and academics, supporting

Student life at the Department of Gender Studies

Students in the Department of Gender Studies join a dynamic and intellectually-engaged postgraduate community shaped by discussion, collaboration and shared interest in social justice and global change. The department attracts students from a wide range of countries and academic backgrounds, creating a diverse learning environment where different perspectives are central to classroom debate and research.

Student life at LSE is international and intellectually stimulating, with students from over 140 countries. Based in the heart of London, students benefit from access to a wider community of events, organisations, cultural institutions and professional networks, giving them opportunities to connect their academic interests with real-world debates and future career pathways. LSE’s single-site campus and central location gives students access to the opportunities of a global city alongside the community of a compact campus. Students can take part in clubs and societies with LSE Students’ Union, attend public events, access academic and professional development through LSE LIFE and LSE Careers, and use wellbeing and student support services throughout their studies.

Student profiles

Sangita Thebe Limbu

My programme is intense and challenging as it takes an interdisciplinary, intersectional and non-linear approach to gender studies. Engaging with diverse schools of thought has helped me develop a robust theoretical foundation. Although there are over 100 students within the Gender Institute, there is a great sense of community and belonging. Being able to discuss issues you are passionate about with like-minded friends and peers is just the cherry on top.

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Dikshya Thapa

I chose LSE because of its reputation as a leading research institution in the field of social science. My MSc programme equips me with a great blend of theory and policy issues that provides a good platform for both further study as well as work in the policy arena. The opportunity to be able to work with leading academics and meet eminent personalities in your field coupled with interaction with a diverse student body makes studying at LSE a unique and enriching experience.

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Prerna Suri

The MSc in Gender and the Media at LSE attracted me particularly for its wide range of theoretical components and interdisciplinary nature. This exciting combination of theory from a wide range of disciplines has been one of the most attractive components of my degree. The manner in which faculty are able to encourage and push you for your research interests is excellent, and the facilities afforded to students are by far the best I have experienced. After the completion of my degree, I would like to work for a media organisation, particularly working on women's issues in the developing world.

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Frequently asked questions

What research opportunities are available?

Students benefit from a vibrant research culture, including public lectures, conferences, resident fellows and visiting scholars.

Do I need a background in Gender Studies?

No single background is required. Students come from a wide range of academic backgrounds. The department’s interdisciplinary approach supports students in engaging with gender research from different perspectives.

What programmes does the department offer?

The department offers eight master’s programmes and a PhD programme in Gender Studies, designed for students from varied disciplinary and international backgrounds.

What careers do graduates go into?

Graduates progress into roles across government, non-governmental organisations, international NGOs, academia and private-sector organisations.

Main campus

London School of Economics and Political Science

London

United Kingdom

Visit website

Department of Gender Studies