The B.A. Honours / B.A. Honours (with research) programme in Gender and Development Studies offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the complex interplay between gender dynamics and development processes. Encompassing fields such as sociology, economics, politics, development studies, public policy, and local governance, this programme equips students with a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of gender inequalities and their impact on societies worldwide. Through rigorous academic inquiry, students engage with feminist theories, human rights frameworks, research methodologies, and case studies to critically analyse the root causes of gender disparities and explore strategies for promoting gender equality and social justice in diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts. 

Through lectures, interactive seminars, internship projects, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop the tools to address pressing challenges such as gender-based violence and gender stereotyping, reproductive rights, environmental degradation, and economic inequality. Graduates emerge from the programme prepared for diverse career paths in both governmental and non-governmental development agencies, policy-making institutions, research organisations, and advocacy groups, where they can contribute meaningfully to advancing gender equality and sustainable development agendas.

PROGRAMME SPECIFIC OUTCOMES 

At the end of the B.A. Gender and Development Studies (B.A Honours / B.A Honours with research) programme at Calicut University, a student would:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of gender, including how it shapes and is shaped by the development process, through engagement with theories and case studies.
• Develop proficiency in employing interdisciplinary perspectives to analyse and address gender issues within the context of development.
• Cultivate a global perspective on gender and development issues, recognising diverse experiences and challenges.
• Gain hands-on experience in gender and development initiatives at the grassroots level.
• Develop a Feminist lens to critically engage with the development process and the discourses.
• Develop proficiency in research methodologies specific to gender and development studies.
• Explore the local governance structures, uncovering their capacity for catalysing gender transformation.
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of gender policy and governance frameworks.

CAREER PATH

Teaching

Graduates can pursue careers as professors or lecturers, teaching courses in gender studies, development studies, or related fields.

Research/Academic: Opportunities in academia or research institutions involve conducting research on gender and development research.  Positions are available at research organisations, think tanks, and NGOs focusing on gender issues.

Educator/Trainer

Teach gender and development studies at schools and colleges or conduct training workshops for organisations and communities.

Gender Analyst/ Policy Evaluator

Work with government bodies or international organisations to develop, analyse, and implement policies related to gender and development.

Gender consultant/ International Development Specialist 

Careers in International development organisations, such as the United Nations, UNICEF, or NGOs, involve designing, implementing, and evaluating development projects and programs. to develop and implement gender-sensitive programs and policies.

Community Women Facilitator 

Coordinates gender resource centre, Jagratha Samithi, and conducts gender status studies at local government institutions.