Centre for Women's Studies
The Centre for Women's Studies at York (CWS) is among the most well-established bases for feminist and gender-oriented teaching and research, both in the UK and internationally. Drawing on social science and arts-based methods, we explore and critique gendered ways of knowing. We adopt an inclusive, intersectional, transnational and interdisciplinary approach to the changing nature of women's experiences, gender relations and identities.
Founded in 1984, CWS is a leading centre for the study of women and gender. Our interdisciplinary courses are suitable for students with arts, humanities or social science backgrounds.
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Postgraduate taught
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Watch CWS's Inaugural Annual Lecture with Avtar Brah
Events
News
Calling all GEMMA graduates - PhD Studentship in the Centre for Women's Studies
Posted on Tuesday 3 February 2026
Applications are open for 2026/2027.
Highly Commended Award for Centre for Women’s Studies Director, Dr Rachel Alsop, at University of York Inclusive Impact Awards
Posted on Monday 1 December 2025
Dr Rachel Alsop along with colleagues Professor Sara de Jong and Professor Simon Parker from the Department of Politics received a highly commended award in the 'Bridge Builder' category at the fourth annual Community Without Limits Inclusive Impact Awards held at the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall on Tuesday 25 November.
Paper presentation at Narratives of Care Conference at La Trobe University, Dept. of Social Inquiry
Posted on Monday 17 November 2025
Dr Asha Abeyasekera will present her paper in late November 2025.
What our students say
"Make the most of your time at this great centre - the more you put in the more you'll get out of it (and the sky's the limit for that)!" - Lotika (former PhD student)
Read more students' experiences at the CWS.