According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) gender-based violence refers to “harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender." It is rooted in gender inequality, the abuse of power and harmful norms. Gender-based violence can take various forms, including physical, sexual and psychological violence. Examples include domestic violence, harassment, rape, institutional and structural violence, trafficking, and violations of human rights during times of conflict and peace.
The MSc Sex, Gender, Violence engages critically with contemporary debates on this subject to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the ways people think about violence, understand it, and respond to it. This programme draws on the exceptional expertise of the Department of Sociology at the University of Aberdeen, particularly regarding religion, political violence, conflict and peace, social movements, identity processes, and global and political sociology.
You will explore the theories and practices of sex/gender and post-war recovery, consider how we decide what counts as violence or a violent act, and examine why responses to violence often seem inadequate - especially in the case of gendered and sexual violence.
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:2 standard from a recognised university or body. Applicants without this qualification may be admitted subject to having an alternative qualification, or an approved level of work experience appropriate to the field of study.