Decolonial Thought and Social Theory MSc University of Leeds

The MSc in Decolonial Thought and Social Theory offers an exciting interdisciplinary focus for the study of decoloniality, as well as the various social and political problems it touches upon. By studying this degree you will be able to critically understand issues and debates around the world concerning the contested legacies and continuities of colonialism. You will be equipped to do this from epistemological, socio-economic and geopolitical perspectives.

This course explores how complex decolonial theoretical frameworks intersect with the challenges and debates raised by social theories and the key global debates. You will be encouraged to consider the positioning and relevance of classical and contemporary theory (including feminist, postcolonial and psychoanalytical perspectives) and investigate these in relation to the common issues surrounding economic, social, political and cultural phenomena.

Supported by leading research centres The Bauman Institute and the Centre of Ethnicity and Racism Studies – and taught by expert tutors – you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in an area that supports your own interests and career goals. Our optional modules provide the opportunity to pursue further advanced research skills or specialise in social topics such as postcolonial feminism, global inequalities, popular culture and religion.

By studying this course you’ll gain insight into the social change affecting our societies, and you will become equipped to consider decoloniality with a critical lens.

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree (hons) with a 2:1 or non-UK equivalent in a social sciences, humanities or related discipline.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Politics and Society (6 weeks) and Language for Social Sciences and Arts: Politics and Society (10 weeks).

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. You could study a part-time online course starting in January, or a full-time course in summer. Find out more about online pre-sessionals.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.