MA in Gender Studies
A two-year research-oriented degree exploring gender theory, feminist methodologies, masculinities and gender-responsive policy analysis.
Programme details →Advancing gender equality through knowledge, evidence and action.
The Centre for Gender Studies is Rwanda's leading hub for gender research, postgraduate training and policy engagement — connecting scholars, communities and institutions to build a more equitable society.
1,200+Students Trained
85+Publications
20+Partner Institutions
12Active Research Projects
About the Centre
Where rigorous scholarship meets real-world impact.
Established within the University of Rwanda, the Centre for Gender Studies brings together interdisciplinary expertise in sociology, law, economics, public health and education. We generate evidence that informs national gender policy and equip a new generation of leaders with the analytical tools to challenge inequality.
From community-based fieldwork in rural districts to collaboration with international research networks, our work is grounded in Rwanda's development priorities and the global sustainable development agenda.
- Excellence in teaching Postgraduate programmes designed for practitioners, researchers and policymakers.
- Evidence-based research Applied studies that respond to national and regional gender priorities.
- Community engagement Outreach, advocacy and capacity-building with civil society and local government.
Our Mandate
To advance gender equality in Rwanda and beyond through three connected pillars:
- Teaching & postgraduate training
- Research, publications & policy briefs
- Outreach, advocacy & partnerships
Academic Programmes
Study gender. Change systems.
Our programmes combine rigorous theory with applied research methods, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, development agencies and civil society.
Gender-Responsive Policy & Budgeting
A professional certificate for public servants and development practitioners on gender mainstreaming, GBV prevention and inclusive planning.
Programme details →PhD Research Supervision
PhD candidates join a vibrant research community with supervision in gender, migration, health, education and economic empowerment.
Programme details →
Research & Publications
Evidence that shapes policy and practice.
Our research portfolio spans gender-based violence prevention, women's economic empowerment, gender and climate change, sexual and reproductive health, and gender in education.
Gender-Based Violence Prevention
Community-led research on prevention pathways, survivor support services and the effectiveness of local response mechanisms across five districts.
Read the findings →Women's Economic Empowerment
Assessing access to finance, land and cooperative membership, with concrete recommendations for inclusive enterprise policy.
Download brief →Gender, Climate & Resilience
Examining how climate adaptation programmes affect gendered labour, household decision-making and food security in rural communities.
Project overview →
News & Events
What's happening at the Centre
18Mar
Centre publishes national report on gender-responsive budgeting
The report analyses budget allocations across six sectors and offers a practical toolkit for local government planners.
05Mar
International Women's Day symposium draws 400 participants
Researchers, students and policymakers discussed digital inclusion and women's leadership in the public sector.
21Feb
New partnership signed with regional gender research network
The agreement supports joint publications, staff exchange and shared doctoral training opportunities.
Research Seminar: Masculinities & Care Work
Hybrid · UR Kigali Campus, 14:00 CAT
Workshop: Feminist Research Methods
Postgraduate students · Registration required
Public Lecture: Gender & Climate Justice
Open to the public · Main Auditorium, 16:00 CAT
Policy Dialogue: GBV Prevention Financing
By invitation · Ministry of Gender & Family Promotion
Applications are open
Join the next cohort of gender studies scholars and practitioners at the University of Rwanda.
Partners
Collaborating for impact
We work with government, academic and civil society institutions at home and abroad.
Ministry of Gender & Family Promotion
UN Women Rwanda
College of Arts & Social Sciences
Regional Gender Research Network
Rwanda Civil Society Platform