About us

The Department of Gender Studies was established in 1993 to address major intellectual challenges posed by contemporary changes in gender relations.

The question of gender is universal. Gender is an essential concept in the social sciences – everything has a gender dimension to it. Studying gender provides a framework for understanding how the world works today. It opens up space for thinking about other forms of oppression, discrimination and inequality.

As a recognised hub of global expertise in the study of gender, our Department pioneers intersectional, interdisciplinary and transnational teaching and research. As a stand-alone department, we are able to provide not only a shared physical space for our students to interact with peers and faculty, but also a distinct intellectual space. This environment fosters cohesion and connectedness, and generates dynamic and innovative knowledge production and exchange. We run eight and have 12 faculty members, including leading global thinkers and world-class academics. The Department offers a vibrant research culture with resident research fellows, visiting scholars, , and a regular programme of research seminars.

Our interdisciplinary approach means we work closely with other departments, centres and institutes within LSE, and have strong links with institutions around the globe. We are a focus for  across the School, and work to promote a close relationship between policy-makers, practitioners and academia.

Our teaching covers established gender theories, as well as emerging topics and areas of current debate. We are strongly committed to the principle that gender theory is the foundation of policy, practice and activism: Theory saves lives.

Since an understanding of gender issues is increasingly important in the workplace, our students are uniquely equipped with the expertise to meet this growing demand.