Master of Science in Gender and Security Studies
Program Overview
This program is an exploration of how gender and security interface both conceptually and practically. The program has come at a time when many organizations working in post-conflict settings are attempting to understand how to plan projects so that they facilitate peace and human security while redressing deep-rooted inequities, including gender-based inequality. The goal of gender equality has been established in the peace-building policies and programmes of many donor agencies and organizations yet there has not been adequate analysis of how gender equality can be realized in a post-conflict setting while promoting social and political stability. This crucial course stems from the realization that there is increasing literature on why women’s issues are integral to peace- building and security, but less on the gender dimensions of security, and the various dimensions to operationalize gender equality and security studies.
The course further recognizes that what is lacking in most approaches is recognition of the potential contradictions and barriers to linking gender equality with security studies and how these can be dealt with.
This Master of Science (M.SC) Degree programme in Gender and Security Studies is the outcome of the various consultative meetings between the International Academy for Gender and Peace and Pan-Africa Gender and Peace Research Group. The M.Sc programme is a response to the demands and challenges faced by students who are continuing their education, and professionals who are working in the military, para-military Agencies, multi-lateral or bilateral institutions, Non-governmental Organizations and private enterprises.
Mission & Vision Statements
Mission
To be the leading gender and peace sensitive programme that sustain equality and inclusiveness.
Vision
To promote and support teaching, research and outreach that works to contest the historical, on-going and pervasive gender-based oppressions within society.
Core Values & OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
- We are committed to promote gender equality and empower women and girls and removing any barriers that prevent full participation of women and girls in the public and political life.
- We believe in full and inclusive participation by all and that every man, woman or community has the right and responsibility to contribute their talents, skills and resources to the work we do, for and with them.
- We are committed to promote full and equal access to social services, education, legal and health care services, economic opportunities and decent work for everyone.
- We believe that community participation is an essential part of the process of good local governance, and community development.
The Master of Science Degree programme expect to:
- Respond to the demands of personnel in military and para-military Agencies in Africa and beyond.
- Respond to the demands and challenges faced by students who are continuing their education and mid-career professionals who are working in Government, multi-lateral or bi-lateral institutions, Nongovernmental Organizations and private enterprises.
- Empower men and women to become more effective players in the Processes of peace, with the clear understanding that conflict, violence, and war have a variety of impacts upon men and women and that while comparable, are not the same.
- Provide a solid education in the prevention, management, and resolution of conflicts, including post-conflict interventions from a gender perspective.
- Offer a theoretical and practical approach to the field of Gender, Peace and Security Studies, using materials drawn from the fields of Anthropology, Development Studies, Economics, History, Human Rights, Law, Natural Resources, Political Science, Religion, and Sociology.
Engagement & Partnerships
We consider partnership as one of our key organizing principles. Accordingly, we are committed to developing, maintaining and, nurturing partnerships, including alliances and linkages with institutions and individuals who identify with our vision and mission.
In addition, we build the capacity of Military, para-military Agencies, other corporate Institutions, Government, International Development Agencies, using a variety of operational methodologies that range from workshops, conferences, colloquia, symposia, and seminars, which attract participation from both within and outside Africa. Also, through partnership with other academic institutions, the program offers a range of academic and short courses in specialized areas of Gender, Peace and Security Studies.
Currently, the program the partners with the International Academy for Gender and Peace in Nigeria
Why MSc. Gender & Security Studies?
The program instills a sense of pride in the University of Liberia and the nation Liberia. Particularly its vital importance of Gender, peace and security within the sub-region cannot be overlooked. Furthermore, this initiative is poised to elevate the reputation of the University of Liberia, enhancing its academic standing and increasing its rank on the international stage. Through this commitment to excellence, the university stands to contribute to the scholarly landscape and serves as an inspiration for progress for the entire nation and the sub-region in Gender and Security.
Customizable Curriculum
The curriculum approach to this course offers a unique and complete methodology to this knowledge area. Thus, the courses offered are intended to support concerned personnel of military and para-military organizations, Government organizations, Non-governmental organizations, the United Nations System, International Development Agencies, etc.Â
The Master of Science (M.Sc) curriculum in Gender and Security Studies us a unique academic program tailored towards offering a comprehensive look at the study of Gender and Security. The program curriculum is based on the core argument that Gender is conceptually necessary to thinking about central questions of Security; analytically important for thinking about cause and effect in Security; and politically important for considering possibilities of making the world better in the future. The curriculum considers various aspects of studying Gender and Security through diverse lenses that engage persons with diverse backgrounds, with diverse policy concerns, and working with diverse theoretical contributions from scholars of Security more broadly. Undoubtedly, the curriculum is set to build a new set of regional and international strategic for leaders who will transform Africa.
Application Procedures
1. Please complete the form in BLOCK LETTERS with a non-refundable fee of USD 150 to the bank account number ___________________, which will cover the cost of the entrance examination.
2. ONLY original academic transcripts DULY addressed to The Dean, College of Graduate Studies, University of Liberia, will be accepted.
3. ONLY original O’Level Certificate(s) will be accepted where applicable.
4. WASSCE/NECO/A’Level: All candidates MUST have a minimum of five (5) credit passes at not more than two sittings, which MUST include English Language and Mathematics.
5. Statement of Purpose: This applies to ALL Graduate programs. The Statement of Purpose is your opportunity to convey your motivation and enthusiasm for your chosen program.
6. Three letters of reference.
7. Two passport-size photos and a CV to be uploaded.
8. 2. Will need to fill out the application form
9. Submitting Your Application: To submit your application, fill in all required fields in this form and submit it.
10. Applications received without COMPLETE supporting documents will not be processed.
11. Applicants must pass the aptitude test and submit all required documents to be accepted for the program.
YOU MUST BE PREPARED TO PROVIDE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION.
Please click the link below to access the online application form
The Master of Science Degree program is composed of eleven intertwining courses and a dissertation that offers a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge, incorporating historical and current events from around the world. The programme is distributed over a three – term timeline (two semesters and one research term). In order to receive the Master of Science Degree in Gender, and Security Studies, students must complete a total of 44 credits and a written dissertation. A minimum of 3.00 GPA is needed to pass (C). Any grade below C is consider a failing mark. Courses will be taught intensively, under the guidance of highly qualified Professors in order that course participants would work through completing a dissertation.
The MSc program is offered through blended learning. The program accepts full-time and part-time students. Full-Time students are expected to take eight courses (four courses per semester) in the first two semesters, and four courses (Two courses per semester) in the last two semesters. Part-time students are expected to take at least two courses per semester to enable them to complete the program in no more than four years.
Classes are scheduled during weekdays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and on Saturdays from 10:00 A.M to 4:00 P.M at the University of Liberia, Capitol Hill campus.
Academic Schedule
Master of Science in Gender and Security Curriculum
Total 44 Credit Hours
1st Semester Courses (14 Credits)
| Course Title | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Issues in National Security | GSS 801 | 4 |
| Advanced Research Methods and Seminar on Gender and Security Studies | GSS 803 | 4 |
| Cyber Security Policy and Practice | GSS 805 | 3 |
| Violent and Non-violent Conflict | GSS 807 | 3 |
| Total Credit hours for 1st Semester | 14 | |
2nd Semester Courses (14 Credits)
| Course Title | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Current and Emerging Threats to Africa's Regional Security | GSS 802 | 4 |
| Gender, Security and Peace Building | GSS 804 | 4 |
| Regional Security Cooperation | GSS 806 | 3 |
| Gender Mainstreaming in Peace Keeping Operations and in Humanitarian Assistance | GSS 808 | 3 |
| Total Credit hours for 2nd Semester | 14 | |
3rd Semester Courses (10 Credits)
| Course Title | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Human Rights before, during and after War | GSS 809 | 3 |
| Project Design and Management | GSS 811 | 4 |
| Practice of Conflict Management and Peace Building | GSS 813 | 3 |
| Total Credit hours for 3rd Semester | 10 | |
4th Semester Courses (6 Credits)
| Course Title | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Dissertation | GSS 810 | 6 |
| Total Credit hours for 4th Semester | 6 | |
Faculty
Prof. Tyoor, Fredrick. M. Terhemba
Professor
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Prof. Dr. David Rowland
Senior Research Professor
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Assoc. Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi
Associate Professor
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Prof. Ada Okau
Professor
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