The program offers a comprehensive focus of study for students with a first degree in a traditional discipline and some prior knowledge in gender analysis. Students undertake coursework in an interdisciplinary range of mandatory and elective classes that examine gender in symbolic, social and theoretical terms. Coursework is followed by an independent, original research component—a Master's thesis written under the supervision of two faculty members. Fellowships and tuition waivers are available.

Entry Requirements for the Master's Programs
MA students do not need to have a prior degree in gender or women's studies; however, successful applicants tend to have had some exposure to gender as a body of scholarly knowledge and discipline in addition to a sensitivity to its social impact. Applicants should have a genuine interest in developing their knowledge and scholarly perspectives beyond the individual disciplines they have studied at the undergraduate (or Master's) level.

In addition to meeting the General CEU Admissions Requirements, applicants should submit a 500-word statement of purpose describing:
• their interest in the field of gender studies and in the program of the Department of Gender Studies;
• any relevant experience (academic, professional or personal), and the expected significance of their studies at CEU for their future career goals.

In exceptional cases, applicants with a three-year bachelor’s degree may be allowed admission into one-year master’s programs. The applicants should be aware that they may not be able to pursue a doctoral degree in the European Higher Education Area if they have accumulated less than 300 ECTS credits in their prior university studies. Applicants wishing to pursue an academic career should choose their master’s program accordingly (two-year master’s in case they completed a three-year bachelor’s degree, and one-year master’s in case they completed a four-year bachelor’s degree). For the list of conditions under which exemptions may be granted, please refer to the program’s website.