The main aims of the programme are to

1) provide comprehension of multi-level processes of development and the significance of gender in such processes, and

2) convey understanding of the notion of gender in an interdisciplinary perspective and its complex analytical applications.

The programme offers a critical and contextual perspective on both "development" and "gender." It emphasises global and ethical reflection, while at the same time retaining a perspective "from below" which is sensitive to local values and ideas. The GAD approach to methodology is gender sensitive and draws on feminist epistemologies and ethics. The emphasis is mainly on qualitative methods, but training is offered in interpreting quantitative data material. Research ethics is an integral part of the teaching throughout the course.

After completion of the study programme, the students should be able to account for and critically apply key concepts relating to gender analysis. They should be able to examine local-level gendered patterns of social organisation. They should also be able to discuss gender in a cross-cultural perspective and the potential of gender for political mobilisation and development.

They should be able to trace the conceptual and policy trajectory from economic growth to human development. The students should also demonstrate understanding of the gendered aspects of poverty and vulnerability, of global socio-economic and political processes, and the role of the various institutional players involved in such processes. Furthermore, they should be able to draw a critical picture of the gendered consequences of more specifically targeted development policies. Through the master thesis, the students should demonstrate skills in formulating research questions, and plan, carry out and report on an independent research project.

The theoretical part of the programme is intended to prepare students for independent research, which should be based on data collected through fieldwork (Master´s thesis, 60 ETCS). Fieldwork, which is a compulsory part of the course in research methodologies, should be carried out in the summer/early autumn between the 2nd and 3rd semesters.

Through work on the Master´s thesis and through elective courses, own academic specialisation in the student´s field of interest is facilitated.

The theoretical part of the programme will be taught in the first semester: Gender Analysis: Critical cross-cultural approaches (15 ECTS) and Critical Perspectives on Development Processes: From economic growth to human development (15 ECTS).

During the second semester, the programme offers a course on Methodology and theory of sciences (15 ECTS) and optional courses (10 ECTS). Optional MA level courses can be chosen to suit each student´s specialisation from the selection of English language 300-level courses available at the university. The programme board will play an active part in the selection of courses.

The project proposal, which should be completed during the course of the second semester, is worth 5 ECTS.

Prospective students for the Master´s programme in Gender and Development must have completed a first degree (Bachelor´s degree) of at least three years´ duration at a recognised institution of higher education or an equivalent education approved by the University Board. The candidate must document special competence equalling one and a half years of study (90 ECTS) in a field or specialisation relevant to gender and/or development issues. Other specialisations may be deemed to be equivalent.

Applicants must document proficiency in the English language in accordance with specified requirements, as English is the language used in teaching, examinations and the thesis.

GAD301

GAD302

GAD303

GAD304

The theoretical part of the study should prepare you for independent research, which should be based on data collected through fieldwork. Fieldwork should be performed in the summer/early autumn between the second and the third semester. The third and fourth semester will be devoted to thesis writing.

Through the work with the master's thesis, as well as through selective courses, you should develop your own academic specialisation according to your fields of interest.

The programme combines different forms of teaching and educational tools, including lectures, seminars and workshops. Emphasis is placed on developing students´ ability to critically read their own and others´ work. Moreover, it is considered important to give the students training in academic writing skills, various research techniques and research ethics.

Language of instruction is English.

Prospective students to the Master's programme in Gender and Development, must have completed a first degree study (Bachelor's degree) of at least three years' duration from a recognized institution of higher education or an equivalent education approved by the University Senate. The candidate must document special competence equaling one and a half year of study (90 ECTS) in a field or subject of specialization relevant to gender and/or development issues. Other specializations can be considered as equivalent.

Applicants must document proficiency in the English language according to specified requirements, as English is the language of instruction, examination and the thesis.

Dept. of Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Psychology.

http://www.uib.no/gad/

Dept. of Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Psychology.

http://www.uib.no/gad/

1st semester:

• GAD301 Gender Analyses: Critical cross-cultural approaches (15 ECTS)
• GAD302 Critical Perspectives on Development Processes: From economic growth to human development (15 ECTS)

2nd semester:

• GAD303 Methodology and theory of sciences (15 ECTS)
• GAD304 Research proposal (5 ECTS)
• Optional course (10 ECTS)

3th and 4th semester:

• GAD350 Master thesis (60 ECTS)

Please note that minor changes may oocur.