Undergraduate Programme

Frequently Asked Questions Need to link to areas below

What is the Certificate Programme in Gender & Development Studies?

The Certificate Programme in Gender & Development Studies is an undergraduate Distance Education programme designed to provide participants with an understanding of gender and its related issues.

Who Is the Programme For?

The programme is specifically designed for women and men working in non-governmental organisations, (NGOs), Women’s Bureaux, community and international development agencies, church-related organisations, social service agencies and national planning institutions.

What Award do you receive on completion?

A Certificate in Gender and Development Studies will be awarded by the University of the West Indies to persons who successfully complete the programme.

What Are the Matriculation Requirements to enter the programme?

Applicants should meet at least the lower level matriculation requirements for entry to a University course. These include:

(a) Holders of five CXC certificates with acceptable passes or equivalent, not necessarily obtained at the same sitting as follows:

(i) in English (A)

(ii) in Mathematics, or in a foreign language, or an approved science

(not Health Science), or Additional Mathematics or Geography

(iii) in three other approved subjects not already counted above.

(b) Persons over 25 years can enter on the basis of their overall academic and professional attainment and experience;

(c) Holders of one or more of the eight certificates from the School of Continuing Studies including English Language at the CXC General Proficiency Level I, II or III or the GCE O-Level Examination

Note: Persons who can present evidence of satisfactory achievement may be granted admission to the University after appropriate assessment of their qualifications.

How is the Programme Delivered?

The programme is delivered on a part-time basis over an eighteen months period. Classes are conducted one day each month [on a Wednesday, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EC Time].

What is the Structure of the Programme?

The programme consists of eight (8) courses (24 credits) and a small research project (6 credits).

Assessment - How is this conducted?

Course assessment involves a variety of methods, including small projects, group work, written assignments, etc.

What is the Cost of the Programme?

The cost of this distance education undergraduate programme is US$180.00 per 3-credit course.

Is Financial Assistance there available?

A limited number of fellowships are for suitable applicants who require financial assistance. These funds will be paid directly to the University of the West Indies to defray costs of tuition for the course.

How do I enroll or get more information?

Application forms are available from the Admissions section on the three campuses, as well as from the University Centres in the non-campus countries, and on line at:

Graduate Programme

1. Q: What are the requirements to do a graduate programme in Gender & Development Studies?

A: To do the M. Sc. in Gender & Development Studies you must have a First Degree with a good pass – preferably not lower than an upper second class honors. To do the M.Phil degree you are required to have a Masters Degree with at least a second class honors. Persons requesting to do the Ph.D. must normally register to do the M. Phil. Degree and later have it upgraded to a Ph.D. if their work is found to be satisfactory.

2. Q: What qualifying courses do I need to do for Post Graduate Degree in Gender & Development Studies?

A: There are no qualifying courses but candidates must have at least a second class honors from an approved university. Graduates without honors pass, but have work experience in the area of gender studies may be assessed and if found to meet the criteria of the department be accepted into the graduate programme.

3. Q: What is the duration for the course of studies in the graduate programme?

A: The graduate programme is offered part time for a minimum of 3 years.

4. Q: What format does the graduate programme take?

A: The graduate programme holds face-to-face classes twice per week and is assessed through course work and examination.