Registration does not begin until 02.10.2026 at 08:00. It ends on 12.10.2026 at 23:59.

This seminar introduces some of the key theoretical approaches to the study of gender and other forms of social difference and heterogeneity. It includes an attention to theories of sexuality, racism, disability/able-bodiedness, the legacies of colonialism, and social/political economic class. Over the course of the semester, students explore the historical relationship between theories that were developed within social movements (mostly in the second half of the twentieth century) and those that have subsequently taken hold within critical fields of study in the university. These include Women’ Studies, Gay and Lesbian Studies, Queer Studies, Transgender Studies, Black Studies, Post-Colonial Studies, Disability Studies, and inter-disciplinary scholarship on diversity and intersectionality. In many cases, we will read both a short text introducing or situating a particular critical field of study as well as a key contribution to this field.

Please note: This seminar is the introductory module to the MA Gender and Diversity Certificate. For more information, see: www.leuphana.de/gdz

• Critically engage with some key contributions to the theorization of gender and other forms of social difference and heterogeneity
• Gain an understanding of the historical context out of which these critical theories emerged, including the role of social movements in producing or shaping new forms of knowledge that have gone on to inform scholarly inquiry
• Acquire an understanding of what defines a range of scholarly fields, including Women’s and Gender Studies, Queer Studies, Transgender Studies, Black Studies, Post-Colonial Studies, Disability Studies

Further information on teaching evaluation: https://www.leuphana.de/en/teaching/quality-management/evaluation/course-evaluation.html