Master of Arts in European Women's and Gender History (MATILDA)

The MATILDA European Master in Women's and Gender History is a two-year Erasmus program established in 2008 by six partner universities, offering students the opportunity to learn from leading interdisciplinary researchers in a cross-cultural setting.   

MATILDA blends focused studies in Women's and Gender History in Europe and beyond with an international study experience, where you engage with peers and lecturers from other European countries to explore diverse perspectives on contemporary issues.  

The MATILDA program consortium comprises six universities with established gender studies and history departments staffed by internationally renowned researchers. Together with Université Lumière Lyon 2 (France), University of Vienna (Austria), Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski (Bulgaria), Universià degli Studi di Padova (Italy) and Ruhr-Universität Bochum (Germany), CEU guides students in exploring the significant role of gender in shaping Europe throughout history.  

By the end of the MATILDA program, students will be able to critically examine political, social and cultural issues in the context of the rich history of gender in European societies and contribute original research that draws upon an interdisciplinary approach.  

The MATILDA program provides a comprehensive curriculum that delves into the intricate relationship between gender, history and society. You will gain a solid foundation in core Women's and Gender History subjects, including theory, methodology and practice. You will also choose your specialization, gaining an in-depth knowledge of gender in the context of historical periods, from medieval to modern times. 

By exploring a wide range of topics, such as feminist theory, gender and colonialism, and the history of emotions, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the role of gender in shaping historical events and cultural practices. The MATILDA program puts a strong emphasis on comparative, entangled and transnational history, encouraging students to think critically about the interconnectedness of different societies and historical periods. 

The goal of MATILDA is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to challenge gendered inequalities and contribute to a more just and equitable future through their work and research.  

The MATILDA program at CEU combines two main components: the Foundations in Gender Studies and the Foundations in Historical Methods. The first component introduces key historical trends, theories, and debates shaping the study of Women's and Gender History, including feminist and women's movements, histories of state socialism, women's activism, gender politics, East-West and North-South relations, nationalism and body politics.  

You will explore critical theoretical frameworks, methodological approaches and historical contexts surrounding the intersections of gender with race, class, sexualit, and nationality to understand the evolution of gender studies and its impact on contemporary society. 

Through the Foundations in Historical Methods component, you will learn various methods adopted in historical studies of women and gender in recent years. You will engage with diverse theoretical approaches that inform historical scholarship and how each research project in Women’s and Gender History requires a distinctive set of methodological approaches and tools. 

You will practice your argumentation and critical analysis skills during Public Lectures - a series of mandatory events where scholars from topically related disciplines present their current research and engage in dialogue with the audience. The goal of this activity is to encourage you not only to develop advanced academic research skills but also to participate in current debates on gender concepts and theories across diverse fields.  

The two-year Master of Arts in European Women's and Gender History (MATILDA) provides students with critical thinking, research and communication skills essential for success in a wide range of professions within the public and private sectors. By exploring the intersections of gender, race, class and sexuality, you will develop a nuanced understanding of social, political and cultural dynamics that shape European societies. With a strong foundation in Women’s and Gender Studies, you will be able to analyze current issues, identify patterns of inequality and propose effective solutions grounded in an interdisciplinary approach. Whether working in academia, government, a non-profit organization or a multinational corporation, your ability to understand historical context and critically analyze social change will make you a valuable asset to any company in Europe and beyond.  

If you choose to pursue a PhD in related disciplines, your experience during MATILDA will open a path to postdoctoral training at internationally renowned academic institutions. A notable number of MATILDA graduates have successfully continued in PhD programs at universities in Europe and the United States. 

1. Dual degree: Earn both an American and Austrian degree and expand your career and research prospects internationally. 
2. Interdisciplinary curriculum: The program offers a comprehensive understanding of Women’s and Gender History Studies by drawing on diverse disciplines such as art history, anthropology, sociology, philosophy, religious studies, literature and cultural studies.  
3. Critical thinking and analysis: You will learn to critically evaluate social and cultural phenomena, develop strong analytical abilities and effectively communicate your insights to any audience. 
4. Practical skills: Besides theoretical knowledge, the program equips you with practical skills for academic and professional success. You will develop vital research, writing and presentation skills, enabling you to conduct independent research, write scholarly papers and deliver engaging presentations. 
5. Study in Vienna: You will be based at CEU in Vienna, which was named the world's most livable city for the third consecutive year in the Global Liveability Ranking by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).