Critical Issues in Queer Theory (920Q3A)

30 credits, Level 7 (Masters)

Autumn teaching

Queer theory and/or queer studies, which first emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, brings poststructuralist epistemologies and radical political sensibilities to the study of sexuality – and, indeed, the study of identity, relationality, and kinship more broadly.

In this module we will consider key concepts in queer theory and read some important early queer theoretical texts. We will also explore a selection of key issues and approaches in contemporary queer studies, which might include, for instance, asexuality, bisexuality, trans theories and identities, race, intersectionality, colonisation, global queer politics and identities, queer activism, and queer histories.

Through this module, we will build up a firm foundation in queer theory. This will allow us to attend in nuanced and informed ways to the multi-faceted, intersectional politics of gender and sexuality and to move forward in our work in queer studies.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 300 hours of work. This breaks down into about 24 hours of contact time and about 276 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.