Bharathiar University Coimbatore MA Women Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. Yes, Bharathiar University's Department of Women's Studies now offers the programme as M.A. Gender Studies, which is an updated and broader version of the earlier M.A. Women's Studies. While Women's Studies traditionally focused on women's experiences and feminist theory, Gender Studies takes a more inclusive interdisciplinary approach, examining how gender identity, roles, and relationships are shaped by cultural, social, political, and economic factors for people of all genders. The curriculum covers feminist theory, gender and law, gender and health, gender and media, gender budgeting, and research methodology, among other topics.

Ans. No, there is no separate entrance examination for M.A. Gender Studies at Bharathiar University. Admission is purely merit-based, with selection made on the basis of marks obtained in the UG degree programme (up to the 5th semester or 2nd year, excluding Part I/II languages and general subjects). Candidates appearing for their final year UG examinations are also eligible to apply. The application process is entirely online through the university's admission portal.

Ans. Graduates of M.A. Gender Studies from Bharathiar University can pursue careers in a wide range of fields. Academic and research roles include positions as lecturers, researchers, and Ph.D. scholars in Women's Studies, Gender Studies, Sociology, and Social Work departments. In the development sector, graduates work with NGOs, UN agencies (UN Women, UNICEF), and government bodies like the National Commission for Women (NCW), Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), and State Women's Commissions. Corporate opportunities include DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) roles, HR, and CSR functions. The department's PoSH Act training expertise also opens doors to independent consulting and training careers.

Ans. The total course fee for M.A. Gender Studies over 2 years (4 semesters) is Rs. 17,030 for students from Bharathiar University and Rs. 17,550 for students from other institutions. SC/ST students are fully exempted from paying tuition fees (Rs. 0 tuition per semester) and pay only the applicable other fees, bringing their total cost significantly lower. Additionally, SC/ST students are eligible for government scholarships and the Tamil Nadu Higher Educational Special Loan Scholarship if they reside in the university hostel.

Ans. Yes, Bharathiar University has dedicated women's hostels on campus, including Periyar Hostel, Kannammal Hostel, Chellammal Hostel, Kasthuribai Hostel, and Vasuki Hostel. Female students admitted to M.A. Gender Studies can apply for hostel accommodation subject to availability. Hostel fees are charged separately from the course fee. The campus is located approximately 12 km from Coimbatore city, making on-campus accommodation highly convenient. Students are advised to apply for hostel accommodation at the time of admission as seats are limited.

Ans. Yes, the eligibility criterion for M.A. Gender Studies at Bharathiar University is simply a pass in any UG Degree from a recognised university, with no restriction on the stream or discipline. Students from science, commerce, arts, or any other background are eligible to apply. This open eligibility reflects the interdisciplinary nature of Gender Studies, which draws from sociology, law, public health, economics, media studies, and other disciplines. However, since admission is merit-based, students with higher UG percentage scores will have a competitive advantage.