A Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies is an interdisciplinary undergraduate programme that examines how gender influences society, culture, institutions, identities, relationships, workplaces and everyday experiences. The course draws knowledge from areas such as sociology, psychology, history, political science, economics, literature, law, anthropology, media studies and social research.
Gender Studies is not limited to studying one particular group. It explores how ideas about gender are created, represented and experienced across different social and cultural settings. Students may examine topics such as gender roles, equality, social institutions, family, education, work, media representation, politics, law, health, development and human rights.
The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, research ability, communication skills and an understanding of social issues. Students learn to examine social questions using evidence, academic literature, case studies, fieldwork and different analytical approaches.
A Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies can be relevant to students interested in social research, education, development, public policy, NGOs, community programmes, human resources, media, communications, advocacy and related fields. Career opportunities depend on an individual’s skills, experience, postgraduate qualifications and employer requirements.
Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies – Course Highlights
| Particular | Details |
| Course Name | Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate |
| Duration | Usually 3 years; may vary by university |
| Academic Area | Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences |
| Main Focus | Gender, society, culture, institutions and social change |
| Learning Methods | Lectures, discussions, research, projects, presentations and fieldwork |
| Eligibility | Usually Class 12 or equivalent |
| Admission | Merit-based, entrance-based or university-specific |
| Assessment | Assignments, examinations, presentations, projects and research work |
| Important Skills | Research, communication, critical thinking and analysis |
| Career Areas | Social research, development, HR, NGOs, media, education and policy |
| Higher Studies | MA, MSW, Public Policy, Sociology, Development Studies and related fields |
Eligibility, duration, admission procedures and curriculum vary between institutions. Students should verify the current requirements of the university they intend to join.
What is a Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies?
A Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies provides an academic framework for understanding gender as a social, cultural, historical and institutional subject. Students investigate how societies create expectations around gender and how those expectations can influence opportunities, responsibilities, relationships and participation in different areas of life.
The course is interdisciplinary because gender-related questions cannot always be understood through one academic subject. Historical research can explain how gender roles have changed over time. Sociology can examine social institutions and relationships. Economics can explore participation in labour markets. Political science can examine representation and governance. Psychology can contribute perspectives on identity and behaviour.
Students may therefore encounter several academic approaches during the degree. The exact combination depends on the institution.
A major component of the programme is critical analysis. Students learn to question assumptions, compare different perspectives and distinguish between evidence and interpretation. They may analyse academic papers, government reports, media representations, historical documents, interviews and other sources.
The degree can also introduce students to research methods. They may learn how to formulate research questions, collect information, analyse qualitative or quantitative data and present findings.
Meaning and Scope of Gender Studies
Gender Studies is a broad field that examines the ways gender interacts with society and other aspects of human life. It can involve questions about education, employment, family, culture, media, politics, law, technology and social development.
The subject has expanded beyond traditional discussions of gender roles. Contemporary academic programmes may include topics such as gender and work, representation in media, gender and development, masculinity, social movements, law and rights, gender and technology, and intersectionality.
Major Areas Covered
| Area | Possible Focus |
| Gender and Society | Social roles, norms and institutions |
| Gender and History | Historical development of gender relations |
| Gender and Politics | Representation and political participation |
| Gender and Economics | Work, labour and economic participation |
| Gender and Education | Access, experiences and educational institutions |
| Gender and Media | Representation and communication |
| Gender and Law | Legal frameworks and rights |
| Gender and Development | Social and economic development |
| Gender and Culture | Customs, traditions and cultural representation |
| Gender and Psychology | Identity, behaviour and social experiences |
| Gender and Health | Social dimensions of health and access |
| Gender and Technology | Digital spaces, technology and social participation |
Why Study Gender Studies?
Students choose Gender Studies for different academic and professional reasons. Some are interested in understanding social structures, while others want to work in development, research, education, communications or community-based organisations.
The programme can provide a broad humanities and social-science foundation. Instead of focusing exclusively on one professional occupation, it develops analytical and communication skills that can be applied in different environments.
Another important feature is exposure to research. Students learn to investigate social questions systematically rather than relying only on personal assumptions or anecdotal experiences.
The course can also strengthen communication skills because students often have to write essays, prepare presentations, participate in discussions and complete research projects.
Reasons to Consider the Course
| Reason | Potential Learning Benefit |
| Interdisciplinary Education | Connects multiple academic disciplines |
| Social Research | Develops research and evidence-based analysis |
| Critical Thinking | Encourages examination of assumptions and arguments |
| Communication | Strengthens written and oral communication |
| Social Awareness | Provides understanding of social institutions |
| Policy Understanding | Introduces policy and institutional perspectives |
| Field Exposure | May provide opportunities for fieldwork |
| Career Flexibility | Supports several social-sector and communication pathways |
Objectives of the Programme
The objectives of a Gender Studies degree generally focus on academic understanding, research ability and practical communication.
Major objectives may include:
- Understanding the concept of gender and its social dimensions.
- Examining gender roles across different societies and historical periods.
- Studying relationships between gender and social institutions.
- Understanding different theoretical approaches to gender.
- Developing research and analytical skills.
- Examining gender representation in media and culture.
- Understanding the relationship between gender, work and economic participation.
- Exploring gender-related issues in education and development.
- Studying relevant legal and institutional frameworks.
- Developing evidence-based writing and communication skills.
- Encouraging ethical and responsible research practices.
- Preparing students for higher education and related professional fields.
Eligibility for Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies
Eligibility varies among universities. Generally, students who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification from a recognised educational board may be eligible to apply.
Some institutions may specify minimum marks, subject requirements or entrance examinations. Others may use merit-based admission.
Students should check the official admission information of each institution because requirements can change from one university to another and between academic years.
General Eligibility Pattern
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
| Educational Qualification | Class 12 or equivalent |
| Stream | May accept students from multiple streams |
| Minimum Percentage | University-specific |
| Entrance Examination | May apply at some institutions |
| Language Requirement | Institution-specific |
| Additional Selection | May include interviews or other criteria |
Eligibility should always be confirmed with the institution before submitting an application.
Admission Process
The admission process depends on the university. Students should first identify institutions offering relevant programmes and examine their eligibility criteria, curriculum and admission method.
In a merit-based system, qualifying examination performance may be considered. In an entrance-based system, applicants may need to take an examination before selection.
Some institutions may use additional procedures such as interviews, document verification or other selection requirements.
General Admission Steps
| Step | What to Do |
| 1 | Check course eligibility |
| 2 | Research universities |
| 3 | Review curriculum |
| 4 | Check admission dates |
| 5 | Complete application |
| 6 | Submit required documents |
| 7 | Take entrance test if applicable |
| 8 | Participate in additional selection if required |
| 9 | Check admission/merit result |
| 10 | Complete enrolment formalities |
Duration of Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies
The programme is commonly structured over three years in many undergraduate systems, although the exact structure depends on the university.
Some institutions may follow semester-based frameworks, while others may have different credit and exit arrangements.
Students should examine the specific curriculum because the same degree title can contain different combinations of subjects and practical components.
Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies Syllabus
The syllabus can vary substantially between institutions. However, a typical programme may introduce students to foundational concepts before progressing towards specialised areas and research.
Illustrative Semester-Wise Structure
| Semester | Possible Subjects |
| Semester 1 | Introduction to Gender Studies, Society and Culture, Introduction to Sociology, Academic Writing |
| Semester 2 | Gender and History, Gender and Literature, Gender and Media, Research Fundamentals |
| Semester 3 | Gender and Politics, Gender and Economics, Gender and Education, Social Institutions |
| Semester 4 | Gender and Development, Gender and Law, Gender and Work, Research Methods |
| Semester 5 | Intersectionality, Gender and Health, Gender and Technology, Fieldwork |
| Semester 6 | Gender Research Project, Policy and Social Change, Dissertation/Project, Seminar |
This table is an illustrative academic structure. Actual subjects and semester placement differ by university.
Major Subjects in Gender Studies
Introduction to Gender Studies
This foundational subject introduces students to the central concepts and vocabulary of the discipline.
Students may examine distinctions between biological sex and socially constructed ideas about gender, while also studying how gender expectations develop within different societies.
The subject provides a foundation for more advanced discussions later in the programme.
Gender and Society
This area examines the relationship between gender and social institutions such as family, education, religion, work and community.
Students may study how socialisation influences expectations and how social norms vary between communities and historical periods.
Gender and History
Historical study helps students understand that gender relations are not static. Social expectations, laws, economic systems and cultural practices have changed over time.
Students may examine historical sources and scholarship to understand how gender has been represented and experienced in different periods.
Gender and Culture
Culture influences language, traditions, values, behaviour and social expectations. This subject examines how gender is represented through cultural practices and institutions.
Students may analyse literature, popular culture, traditions, visual material and other cultural forms.
Gender and Politics
Gender and politics explores participation, representation, institutions and public decision-making.
The subject can introduce students to questions about political participation and the ways social structures interact with political institutions.
Gender and Economics
Economic participation is an important area of Gender Studies. Students may examine employment, unpaid work, labour markets, occupational patterns and economic opportunities.
The subject can also introduce students to broader discussions about economic development and social policy.
Gender and Education
Education can influence social mobility, skills, employment and participation. Students may examine access to education, classroom experiences, curriculum, institutional structures and educational outcomes.
The exact themes depend on the curriculum.
Gender and Media
Media plays an important role in shaping representation and public narratives. Students may analyse advertisements, films, television, news, social media and other forms of communication.
They learn to examine how gender is represented and how audiences may interpret those representations.
Gender and Literature
Literature provides a rich source for studying identity, social expectations, relationships and cultural representation.
Students may examine literary texts using gender-focused critical approaches while also considering historical and cultural context.
Gender and Law
Gender and law introduces students to legal and institutional frameworks related to equality, rights, family, employment, violence, discrimination and other social concerns.
The specific laws covered depend on the country and institution. Students should use current official legal sources when researching contemporary legal provisions.
Gender and Development
This subject examines the relationship between gender and social and economic development.
Students may study development programmes, education, livelihoods, community participation, access to resources and institutional policies.
Gender and Work
The world of work provides an important area for understanding social and economic relationships. Students may examine employment patterns, workplace culture, division of labour and organisational practices.
The subject can also connect with human-resource management and organisational studies.
Gender and Health
Gender can interact with access to healthcare, health communication, social conditions and institutional experiences.
Students may examine health through social and cultural perspectives while learning to distinguish evidence-based research from assumptions.
Masculinities
Some Gender Studies programmes examine masculinities as a field of study. The subject explores how expectations concerning masculinity can vary across cultures, communities and historical contexts.
It can also examine how social expectations affect behaviour, relationships and institutions.
Intersectionality
Intersectionality is an important analytical concept in contemporary Gender Studies. It considers how gender may interact with other dimensions of social life, such as class, age, disability, ethnicity, location and economic circumstances.
Students learn to avoid treating social experiences as identical across all people.
Gender and Technology
Technology has transformed communication, employment, education and social interaction. Students may study how digital environments affect gender representation and participation.
Topics can include digital communities, online communication, access to technology and emerging technological issues.
Gender and Environment
Some programmes examine the relationship between gender and environmental issues. Students may explore how environmental changes and resource access can affect different communities.
This can connect Gender Studies with environmental studies, development studies and sustainability.
Research Methods in Gender Studies
Research is a major component of social-science education. Students may learn qualitative, quantitative or mixed research approaches depending on the programme.
Research Skills May Include
- Developing research questions
- Literature review
- Interviews
- Surveys
- Observation
- Case studies
- Content analysis
- Basic data interpretation
- Academic referencing
- Report writing
- Research ethics
Students may be required to complete a research paper, field project or final-year dissertation.
Fieldwork
Fieldwork provides opportunities to connect classroom concepts with real-world settings. Depending on institutional arrangements, students may visit organisations, communities, educational institutions, workplaces or other relevant settings.
Fieldwork should be conducted ethically. Students may need informed consent, confidentiality procedures and institutional approval depending on the nature of the research.
Internship Opportunities
Internships can help students understand professional environments and apply academic skills.
Potential internship settings may include:
| Organisation Type | Possible Exposure |
| NGOs | Community programmes and research |
| Development Organisations | Programme support and documentation |
| Research Institutes | Data collection and analysis |
| Media Organisations | Content and communication |
| Educational Organisations | Programme coordination |
| HR Departments | Workplace policies and employee programmes |
| Social Enterprises | Community-focused initiatives |
| Government/Policy Organisations | Research and programme support |
Internship availability varies, and students should examine the responsibilities offered rather than selecting an internship solely on the organisation’s name.
Skills Developed During the Course
A Gender Studies degree can develop skills that are useful beyond the academic subject itself.
| Skill | Professional Application |
| Research | Social research and programme evaluation |
| Critical Thinking | Policy and organisational analysis |
| Writing | Reports, articles and documentation |
| Communication | Presentations and stakeholder interaction |
| Data Interpretation | Research and project work |
| Interviewing | Qualitative research |
| Report Writing | NGOs, research and development organisations |
| Presentation | Academic and professional communication |
| Teamwork | Community and organisational projects |
| Ethical Awareness | Responsible research and professional practice |
Career Options After Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies
Graduates can explore several professional areas depending on their interests and additional qualifications.
Possible career areas include:
| Career Area | Potential Roles |
| NGOs | Programme Assistant, Project Assistant |
| Research | Research Assistant, Field Researcher |
| Development Sector | Programme Coordinator |
| Human Resources | HR/People Operations roles |
| Media | Content and Communication roles |
| Education | Programme and administrative roles |
| Social Research | Research and documentation |
| Public Policy | Policy research support |
| CSR | CSR programme support |
| Communications | Communication Executive |
| Community Work | Community Programme Assistant |
| Higher Education | Further academic study |
Job titles and eligibility requirements vary considerably between employers.
Research Assistant
Research assistants may support literature reviews, data collection, interviews, surveys, documentation and report preparation.
Students interested in research should develop strong academic writing, referencing and research-method skills.
NGO and Development Sector
Graduates may explore entry-level roles in non-governmental organisations and development programmes.
Potential responsibilities can include programme documentation, community engagement, research support, reporting, communications and coordination.
Practical experience and knowledge of project management can be valuable for this pathway.
Human Resources
Gender Studies can provide useful perspectives on organisational culture, workplace relationships, inclusion and employee experiences.
Students interested in HR can strengthen their profile by learning recruitment, employee relations, labour-law basics, HR analytics and organisational behaviour.
Communications
Communication roles require the ability to research, write and adapt messages for different audiences.
Graduates may work on reports, newsletters, websites, social media, awareness campaigns and organisational communication.
Content and Media
Students interested in media can use their research and writing skills in content development, journalism support, digital publishing and communications.
Additional training in SEO, content management systems, digital marketing or multimedia can broaden their skills.
CSR Careers
Corporate Social Responsibility departments and organisations working on social programmes may recruit graduates from social-science backgrounds for programme coordination, documentation and research-related work.
Specific qualifications vary by role.
Higher Studies After Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies
A bachelor’s degree can provide a foundation for postgraduate study in several disciplines.
Possible Higher-Study Options
| Programme | Potential Focus |
| MA in Gender Studies | Advanced gender-focused research |
| MA in Sociology | Society and social research |
| MA in Social Work | Professional social-sector practice |
| MA in Development Studies | Development and social policy |
| MA in Public Policy | Policy research and governance |
| MA in Political Science | Political institutions and theory |
| MA in Psychology | Psychology and human behaviour |
| MA in English/Literature | Literary and cultural studies |
| MBA/PG Programme in HR | Human resources and organisations |
| Journalism/Communication | Media and communication |
Admission requirements differ by institution and programme.
Gender Studies and Social Sciences
Gender Studies is closely related to several social-science disciplines but has a distinctive interdisciplinary focus.
| Discipline | Primary Emphasis |
| Gender Studies | Gender and its relationship with society and institutions |
| Sociology | Social structures and relationships |
| Political Science | Politics and governance |
| Psychology | Human behaviour and mental processes |
| Economics | Production, markets and economic behaviour |
| Anthropology | Humans, cultures and societies |
| History | Past events, societies and change |
| Social Work | Professional social intervention and support |
These disciplines can overlap considerably.
Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies vs Sociology
Both programmes examine society, but their emphasis can differ.
| Aspect | Gender Studies | Sociology |
| Central Theme | Gender and social relations | Society and social structures broadly |
| Interdisciplinary Nature | High | High |
| Gender Theory | Major area | One possible area |
| Social Research | Important | Important |
| Career Areas | Social sector, research, HR, communication | Research, social sector, education, policy |
Actual course structures depend on the university.
Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies vs Social Work
Gender Studies is primarily an academic and analytical discipline, while Social Work generally focuses more directly on professional practice and social intervention.
| Aspect | Gender Studies | Social Work |
| Main Focus | Analysis of gender and society | Professional social practice |
| Research | Important | Important |
| Fieldwork | May be included | Often significant |
| Community Practice | Programme-dependent | Central to many programmes |
| Career Path | Broad social-sector roles | Social-work and community-service roles |
Students should examine professional eligibility requirements if they intend to enter regulated or specialised social-work roles.
Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies vs Political Science
Gender Studies and Political Science can overlap through subjects such as governance, representation, institutions and public policy.
Political Science generally provides broader coverage of political institutions and political theory, while Gender Studies applies a stronger gender-focused lens across multiple disciplines.
Importance of Digital Skills
Digital skills can improve the practical application of a humanities or social-science degree.
Students can consider learning:
- Microsoft Office or equivalent productivity tools
- Spreadsheet basics
- Presentation software
- Digital research tools
- Content management systems
- Basic data visualisation
- Social media communication
- Digital documentation
- Online survey tools
- Basic data analysis
These skills can complement academic knowledge when applying for internships and entry-level roles.
Generative AI and Gender Studies
Generative AI is becoming relevant to research, education and communication. Students may encounter AI tools while preparing documents, analysing information or developing communication materials.
However, academic work should follow institutional rules concerning AI use. Students should verify factual claims, maintain appropriate attribution and avoid submitting generated material as independent academic work when prohibited.
Research involving sensitive personal information also requires careful attention to privacy, consent and ethical standards.
Academic and Research Ethics
Research involving people requires responsible conduct. Depending on the project, students may need to consider informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, data protection and appropriate storage of research material.
Academic integrity is equally important. Students should cite sources appropriately and distinguish their own arguments from the ideas of other researchers.
Building a Career After Graduation
A degree is one component of career development. Students can improve their professional readiness through a combination of academic learning, practical experience and communication skills.
Career-Building Roadmap
| Stage | Action |
| Year 1 | Build academic reading and writing skills |
| Year 1–2 | Learn basic research methods |
| Year 2 | Participate in projects and volunteering |
| Year 2 | Develop digital and communication skills |
| Year 2–3 | Complete internships where possible |
| Year 3 | Build a CV and portfolio |
| Year 3 | Explore postgraduate programmes |
| After Graduation | Apply for relevant entry-level roles |
| Continuing | Develop specialised professional skills |
Building a Professional Portfolio
Students can create a portfolio containing selected academic and practical work.
Possible items include:
- Research papers
- Policy briefs
- Fieldwork reports
- Articles
- Communication campaigns
- Case studies
- Presentations
- Data visualisations
- Internship projects
- Community-project documentation
The portfolio should protect confidential information and should not include private data collected during research without appropriate permission.
Role of Communication Skills
Strong communication is useful across almost every career pathway associated with the degree.
Students should practise writing clearly for different audiences. An academic essay, NGO report, social-media post, research summary and corporate presentation require different styles.
Learning to communicate complex ideas in simple language can be particularly valuable in research, development and communication roles.
Role of Research Skills
Research skills can differentiate graduates in areas such as social research, policy, development and programme evaluation.
A student who understands how to locate credible sources, assess evidence, conduct interviews and present findings can apply these abilities in multiple professional contexts.
Future Scope of Gender Studies
The future scope of Gender Studies extends across academic research, social development, communications, organisational work, education and policy-related environments.
The field is inherently interdisciplinary, which means graduates may combine their Gender Studies background with another area of professional expertise.
For example, a graduate can combine Gender Studies with:
- Human resources
- Public policy
- Journalism
- Digital communication
- Social work
- Development studies
- Research
- Education
- Law
- Marketing
- Project management
The specific value of these combinations depends on the role and employer.
Advantages of Studying Gender Studies
| Advantage | Explanation |
| Interdisciplinary Learning | Connects several academic fields |
| Research Skills | Develops evidence-based investigation |
| Communication | Improves writing and presentation |
| Social Analysis | Builds understanding of institutions and society |
| Career Flexibility | Can support several professional pathways |
| Field Exposure | May include projects and internships |
| Higher Study Options | Connects with multiple postgraduate fields |
| Contemporary Relevance | Addresses ongoing social and institutional questions |
Challenges to Consider
Students should also understand the practical challenges associated with the degree.
Because Gender Studies is interdisciplinary, graduates may need to explain clearly how their academic background relates to a particular job. Developing complementary skills can help.
Some specialised professional positions may require postgraduate qualifications or additional certifications. For example, research, teaching, policy or specialised development roles may have requirements beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Employment outcomes also vary according to location, experience, employer demand and individual skills.
Who Should Study Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies?
The course may suit students who:
- Are interested in society and culture.
- Enjoy research and academic reading.
- Want to understand social institutions.
- Like writing and discussion.
- Are interested in development and policy.
- Want to explore social research.
- Enjoy interdisciplinary learning.
- Are interested in media and representation.
- Want to work in communication or social-sector environments.
- Plan to pursue postgraduate study in a related field.
Students should be comfortable reading academic material, analysing arguments and writing structured responses.
How to Choose the Right College
Before selecting a university, students should compare more than just the degree title.
Important factors include:
| Factor | What Students Should Check |
| Curriculum | Subjects, electives and research components |
| Faculty | Academic and research expertise |
| Fieldwork | Practical opportunities |
| Internship | Industry or social-sector exposure |
| Library | Books, journals and research resources |
| Research | Student research opportunities |
| Fees | Total programme cost |
| Location | Accessibility and professional exposure |
| Higher Studies | Postgraduate pathways |
| Placement Support | Nature of career services |
| Student Activities | Seminars, clubs and projects |
Current fees, admission dates and eligibility should be checked directly with the relevant institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies?
A Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies is an interdisciplinary undergraduate programme that examines gender, society, culture, institutions, history, politics, economics, media and social change.
2. How long is a Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies?
The programme is commonly designed for three years, although duration and academic structure vary among universities.
3. What subjects are taught in Gender Studies?
Subjects may include Introduction to Gender Studies, Gender and Society, Gender and History, Gender and Politics, Gender and Economics, Gender and Media, Gender and Development, Gender and Law and research methods.
4. What is the eligibility for Gender Studies?
Many universities accept students who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification. Exact marks and admission requirements vary by institution.
5. What can I do after Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies?
Graduates can explore research, NGOs, development organisations, communications, human resources, media, CSR, education and other social-sector roles.
6. Can I pursue higher studies after Gender Studies?
Yes. Students can consider postgraduate programmes in Gender Studies, Sociology, Social Work, Development Studies, Public Policy, Political Science, Psychology, Communication and related fields, subject to eligibility.
7. Is Gender Studies an interdisciplinary subject?
Yes. It can draw concepts and methods from sociology, history, political science, economics, psychology, anthropology, literature, law and other disciplines.
8. Does Gender Studies include research?
Research is commonly an important part of the discipline. Students may learn literature review, interviews, surveys, case studies, data interpretation and academic writing.
9. Are internships useful for Gender Studies students?
Internships can provide practical exposure to research, development, communication, HR, NGOs and community programmes, depending on the organisation and role.
10. Can Gender Studies graduates work in HR?
A Gender Studies background can be relevant to HR-related work, particularly areas involving workplace culture, employee programmes and organisational practices. Additional HR training may be useful for specialised roles.
11. Can I work in an NGO after this degree?
Graduates can apply for suitable entry-level NGO and development-sector roles. Employers may seek skills in research, communication, project coordination, documentation and community engagement.
12. Is a postgraduate degree necessary?
Not for every entry-level role. However, certain research, academic, policy and specialised professional positions may require postgraduate education or additional qualifications.