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Master of Arts Education and Society: Gender and Women's Studies

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Red Location IconProgram Location

Red Student IconStart Term
Fall Semesters

Red Book IconProgram Type
Thesis or Project

Red Calendar IconSchedule
Full-Time/Part-Time

Red Clipboard IconCredits
45 Credits

Red Clock IconAverage Duration
Full-Time: Up to 3 Years
Part-Time: Up to 5 Years
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The M.A. in Education and Society offers students the opportunity to explore educational issues within various societal contexts, encompassing cultural, historical, philosophical, economic, and political factors. Drawing from diverse theoretical frameworks such as philosophy, sociology, and cultural studies, this interdisciplinary program encourages critical inquiry into education's multifaceted nature. This stream in Gender and Women’s Studies allows students to explore learning and research with a gender-based critical lens.Ìý

Have questions?

grad.dise [at] mcgill.ca (Contact a Student Affairs Coordinator)

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Students may choose from two program options, as outlined in the tabs below.ÌýThe thesis option is recommended for students interested in undertaking a more in-depth independent study or pursuing a PhD upon completion of their Master's degree. The project/non-thesis option may be more appropriate if you wish to pursue your Master's alongside full-time work or are primarily pursuing your Master's for career advancement.

Master of Arts Education and Society (Project): Gender and Women's Studies

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Full Program Details from the Course Catalogue

Education and Society (Non-Thesis) (M.A.): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)

Offered by: Integrated Studies in EdÌý(Faculty of Education) Ìý Ìý
Degree: Master of Arts
Program credit weight: 45

Program Description

The M.A. non-thesis project option - Gender and Women's Studies is an interdisciplinary program for students who meet the degree requirements in a participating unit and wish to earn 6 credits of approved coursework focusing on gender and women's studies, and issues in feminist research and methods. The non-thesis project option consists mainly of coursework, and includes two 6 credit projects. This option is suitable for practitioners interested in professional development with a research and theoretical orientation. The project must be on a topic centrally relating to issues of gender and/or women's studies.

Research Project (12 credits)

Course Title Credits
EDER 633Project 1.6

Project 1.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Theoretical or practical project to explore and analyze an area of interest relevant to education and society.

EDER 634Project 2.6

Project 2.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

Theoretical or practical project to explore and analyze an area of interest relevant to education and society.

Required Courses (9 credits)

Course Title Credits
EDEM 609Critical Perspectives in Educational Theory and Research.3

Critical Perspectives in Educational Theory and Research.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025

Critical exploration of contemporary issues in educational theory and research, in terms of current scholarship in the field, current educational contexts, and various research paradigms. Educational issues as expressions of social, ethical, political, economic, epistemological and cultural reconfigurations. Students will learn to be critical consumers of educational theories and research.

EDEM 690Research Methods: Theory and Practice.3

Research Methods: Theory and Practice.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Overview of the epistemological foundations of a range of research methods, including but not limited to quantitative, philosophical, qualitative, arts-based, and mixed methods. Students will learn techniques to conduct research and to develop a research proposal.

WMST 601Feminist Theories and Methods.3

Feminist Theories and Methods.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Examination of feminist theories and research methods from a variety of disciplinary perspectives.

Complementary Courses (15 credits)

12 credits from the following:

Course Title Credits
EDEC 602Foundations in Curriculum.3

Foundations in Curriculum.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

This course introduces the field of curriculum studies, including a historical approach to the discourses, debates and issues that have shaped it. Students will actively explore relationships between curriculum theory and professional as well as pedagogical practice.

EDEC 606Self-Study, Autoethnography, and Autobiographical Research .3

Self-Study, Autoethnography, and Autobiographical Research .

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Critical and ethical engagement with the relationship between self and other through various auto/biographical approaches to research in education, such as self-study, autoethnography, currere, life writing, artistic practices, writing the self, and memory-work. Exploration of various forms of writing, representation, analysis and critical discussion

EDEC 612Digital Media and Learning.3

Digital Media and Learning.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025, Winter 2026

This course addresses emerging theories, pedagogies, and practices related to youth learning through digital media and online participatory cultures. Through direct engagement with multiple forms of digital media and youth, students will consider implications for teaching and learning within and beyond schools.

EDEC 617Special Topics in Educational Studies.3

Special Topics in Educational Studies.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Explores important current issues in the field of Educational Studies. (Content varies from year to year).

EDEC 620Meanings of Literacy.3

Meanings of Literacy.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Investigation of basic issues related to definitions of literacy. Issues include new directions in literacy and education, the need for non-print literacies in contemporary life, and the challenges these changes present for educators.

EDEC 628Literacy - Multilingual/Multicultural Settings.3

Literacy - Multilingual/Multicultural Settings.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

This course examines the teaching of literacy in a range of multilingual and multicultural settings in schooling and society, primarily from the sociocultural perspectives of self and group identity as well as empowerment within majority-minority group relations.

EDEC 635Research Writing.3

Research Writing.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

The course offers a research-led introduction to processes and practices of research writing. Working to develop their research writing projects, students learn to examine, critically reflect on, and participate in the research writing practices in their fields, guided by current research on the discursive construction of knowledge.

EDER 606Philosophy of Moral Education.3

Philosophy of Moral Education.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

A study of principles underlying contemporary moral education such as what constitutes moral values and judgments, normative basis for morality, and differing foundations employed in determining moral norms.

EDER 607Ethics and Values in Education.3

Ethics and Values in Education.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Considers education as a concept and practice influenced by values (ethical, religious, aesthetic, cultural, political, etc.). Includes a critical examination of selected approaches to values education.

EDER 608Educational Implications of Social Theory.3

Educational Implications of Social Theory.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

An analysis of some of the educational implications of various social and political theories: liberalism, Marxism and others.

EDER 609Education and Philosophical Thought.3

Education and Philosophical Thought.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

An analysis of the educational implications of various philosophical positions concerning the nature of reality and the nature of knowledge.

EDER 614Sociology of Education.3

Sociology of Education.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Social context of schooling, including education and social stratification and socialization processes within and outside schools.

EDER 615Introduction to Philosophy of Education.3

Introduction to Philosophy of Education.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Winter 2026

Explores questions, aims, debates and modes of inquiry that characterize philosophical approaches to studying educational questions. Introduces philosophy of education as a distinctive field of educational research and may focus on figures or themes of contemporary interest.

EDER 617Aesthetics and Education.3

Aesthetics and Education.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

An examination and critical analysis of selected readings on the topic of aesthetics, with specific reference to their application to educational practice.

EDER 622Studies in Comparative Education.3

Studies in Comparative Education.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

Comparative study of the economic, political and social aspects of education systems.

EDER 625Special Topics in Educational Studies.3

Special Topics in Educational Studies.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Explores important current issues in the field of Educational Studies. (Content varies from year to year.)

EDER 626Theory and Praxis of Culture and Citizenship.3

Theory and Praxis of Culture and Citizenship.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Study and critique of contemporary ethics and cultural education models with a specific emphasis on Quebec’s Culture and Citizenship program. Introduction to a variety of theoretical and practical perspectives on the roles culture and citizenship play starting from our personal lives to the classroom.

EDER 643Women, Education and Development.3

Women, Education and Development.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

This course will trace the major theoretical developments in women and development and relate them to educational issues in the formal, non-formal and informal settings. There will be an emphasis on the significance and policy implications of women's education for sustainable developments in the countries of the South.

EDER 649Education: Multicultural Societies.3

Education: Multicultural Societies.

Terms offered: this course is not currently offered.

Majority-minority relations and their implications for educational policy and practice.

Ìý3 credits chosen from the following, must be either:

Course Title Credits
WMST 602Feminist Research Symposium.3

Feminist Research Symposium.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

Discussion and development of participants' research in gender and women's studies.

or one 3-credit course, at the 500 level or higher, on gender/women's issues.

Elective Courses (9 credits)

9 credits at the 500 level or higher. An elective course can be any course in DISE. If the course is outside the department, the student should consult with the Program Director or Coordinator prior to registering for the course. A maximum of 9 credits outside of DISE is permitted.

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Eligibility (Admission Criteria)

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

  1. Possess anÌýundergraduate degree.
  2. AÌýminimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, or a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies.ÌýInternational applicants can look upÌýgrade equivalencies on 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ’s Future Graduate Students website.
  3. It is recommended that applicantsÌýhave a minimum of 36 credits of relevant courses in education and /or language studies and/orÌýhave at least two years of relevant professional experience in education.
  4. Proficiency in English.ÌýApplicants to graduate studies whose mother tongue is not English and who have not obtained an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction, or from a recognized institution in Canada or the US (anglophone or francophone), must submit documented proof of proficiency in oral and written English.
  • IELTS with a minimum overall band of 7.0; (with a minimum writing score of 7.0); or
  • TOEFL:iBT (Internet-based test) – total score of 92 with a minimum score of 22 each for the Writing and Speaking sections and a minimum of 20 each for the Reading and Listening sections and PBT (paper-based test) – 580
(The Department reserves the right to evaluate the applicant's language proficiency before initial registration and at the time of application.)

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Application Process & Required Documents

All applications are done through . The application steps and instructional video are on the University's Future Graduate Students website. The following documents must be part of your application: (Note that all uploaded documents to the portal must be in PDF format.)

  1. A complete application form (accompanied by your application fee payment).
  2. A copy of your unofficial transcripts from all previous university-level studies (undergraduate and graduate). Official transcripts are required to be submitted by those who gain admission to the program. (Instructions on sending official transcripts will be sent upon acceptance.)
  3. Letters of Reference: Within the online application, applicants must provide valid institutional e-mail addresses for two (2) references. At least one reference must be from a university-level instructor; the other may be from an administrator in an educationally relevant context. 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ will contact the referees directly to submit their letters of reference.
  4. Personal Statement (2-page maximum, double-spaced, Times New Roman 12pt font, 1 inch margins). Applicants should demonstrate a clear motivation for pursuing a graduate degree in education and an interest in educational issues manifested in cultural, historical, philosophical, economic, and/or political contexts. Moreover, this letter of intent should specify your relevant academic and professional experience, particularly related to education or other work in a language and/or teaching context.
  5. English Language Proficiency Test Score (if applicable): Please arrange for test scores (TOEFL, IELTS) to be sent to 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ directly from the testing agency. You must indicate the 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ institution code: 0935.

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Application Deadlines
Complete applications must be received by the date indicated below.
  • Fall Admission: January 1

Master of Arts Education and Society (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies

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Full Program Details from the Course Catalogue

Education and Society (Thesis) (M.A.): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)

Offered by: Integrated Studies in Ed (Faculty of Education)Ìý Ìý
Degree: Master of Arts
Program credit weight: 45

Thesis Courses (24 credits)

Course Title Credits
EDEM 621Thesis 1.6

Thesis 1.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025

Departmental seminar to guide students through the process of developing a thesis proposal, identifying a supervisor, research sites and participants, and considering ethical issues.

EDEM 623Thesis 2.6

Thesis 2.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025

Continuation of EDEM 621.

EDEM 699Thesis 3.12

Thesis 3.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025, Winter 2026

Final synthesis of the research project.

Required Courses (9 credits)

Course Title Credits
EDEM 609Critical Perspectives in Educational Theory and Research.3

Critical Perspectives in Educational Theory and Research.

Terms offered: Summer 2025, Fall 2025

Critical exploration of contemporary issues in educational theory and research, in terms of current scholarship in the field, current educational contexts, and various research paradigms. Educational issues as expressions of social, ethical, political, economic, epistemological and cultural reconfigurations. Students will learn to be critical consumers of educational theories and research.

EDEM 690Research Methods: Theory and Practice.3

Research Methods: Theory and Practice.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Overview of the epistemological foundations of a range of research methods, including but not limited to quantitative, philosophical, qualitative, arts-based, and mixed methods. Students will learn techniques to conduct research and to develop a research proposal.

WMST 601Feminist Theories and Methods.3

Feminist Theories and Methods.

Terms offered: Fall 2025

Examination of feminist theories and research methods from a variety of disciplinary perspectives.

Complementary Courses (3 credits)

3 credits chosen from the following, must be either:

Course Title Credits
WMST 602Feminist Research Symposium.3

Feminist Research Symposium.

Terms offered: Winter 2026

Discussion and development of participants' research in gender and women's studies.

or one 3-credit course, at the 500, 600, or 700 level on gender/women's issues, chosen in consultation with the Thesis Supervisor or Graduate Program Director.

Elective Courses (9 credits)

9 credits at the 500- level or higher, chosen in consultation with the Thesis Supervisor or Graduate Program Director. Maximum 3 credits from outside the Department.

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Graduate Supervision

It is not required to secure a supervisor prior to applying to the program; however, you will be asked to name up to three (3) potential supervisors as part of your application. Students will be matched up with their supervisor upon acceptance into the program. You may also choose to reach out to your preferred potential supervisor prior to submitting your application to determine if they are a good fit for you, and so that they are aware of your application and intended research.

Click the button below to review the list of potential supervisors. Should you have any questions about supervision, please contact DISE's Graduate Program Director for Thesis Programs.

(Note that individual supervisors may list further details, such as when they are taking new students and application instructions in the Graduate Supervision section at the bottom of their individual profile pages.)

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Eligibility (Admission Criteria)

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

  1. Possess an undergraduate degree.
  2. A minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, or a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies. International applicants can look up grade equivalencies on 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ’s Future Graduate Students website.
  3. It is recommended that applicants have a minimum of 36 credits of relevant courses in education and /or language studies and/or have at least two years of relevant professional experience in education.
  4. Proficiency in English. Applicants to graduate studies whose mother tongue is not English and who have not obtained an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction, or from a recognized institution in Canada or the US (anglophone or francophone), must submit documented proof of proficiency in oral and written English.
  • IELTS with a minimum overall band of 7.0; (with a minimum writing score of 7.0); or
  • TOEFL:iBT (Internet-based test) – total score of 92 with a minimum score of 22 each for the Writing and Speaking sections and a minimum of 20 each for the Reading and Listening sections and PBT (paper-based test) – 580
(The Department reserves the right to evaluate the applicant's language proficiency before initial registration and at the time of application.)

Ìý

Application Process & Required Documents

All applications are done through . The application steps and instructional video are on the University's Future Graduate Students website. The following documents must be part of your application: (Note that all uploaded documents to the portal must be in PDF format.)

1. A complete application form (accompanied by your application fee payment). You will be asked to name up to three (3) potential supervisors as part of your application. (See the Graduate Supervision section above for more details.)

2. A copy of your unofficial transcripts from all previous university-level studies (undergraduate and graduate). Official transcripts are required to be submitted by those who gain admission to the program. (Instructions on sending official transcripts will be sent upon acceptance.)

3. Letters of Reference: Within the online application, applicants must provide valid institutional e-mail addresses for two (2) references. At least one reference must be from a university-level instructor; the other may be from an administrator in an educationally relevant context. 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ will contact the referees directly to submit their letters of reference.

4. Research Statement: (1,000 words in APA format). Your Research Statement should address the following prompts:

  • What problem or issue do you propose to research during your Master's? Why is that problem or issue important to address?
  • How do your research interests build on your previous studies, professional experience, and/or lived experiences? (Please reference any existing publications that has inspired your research interests.)
  • How do you think your research ambitions can be supported by your potential supervisor?

5. Research Summary: (200 words) A succinct summary of your research statement. This document will be reviewed by prospective supervisors.

6. English Language Proficiency Test Score (if applicable): Please arrange for test scores (TOEFL, IELTS) to be sent to 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ directly from the testing agency. You must indicate the 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ institution code: 0935.

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Application Deadlines
Complete applications must be received by the date indicated below.
  • Fall Admission: January 1

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