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Panoramic view of the North Campus © Roland Baege​/​TU Dortmund

Introductory Module

An exclusive intensive course (currently offered only during the winter semester) for certificate students introduces students to key perspectives, theories, and concepts from research on racism and anti-discrimination, intersectionality, gender studies, as well as debates on migration and power dynamics. The focus is on a reflective examination of socially produced difference, structural inequality, and the political origins of struggles related to diversity. Methodologically, the course combines critical, reflective, and participatory approaches.

Module 1: Introduction to Diversity and Gender: Perspectives, Theories, and Practices (5 CP)

Dates for the 2026/27 winter semester:

  • Friday, November 6, 2026, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Bochum Campus: GB – Room 5/160)
  • Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Bochum Campus: GABF – Room 04/611)
  • Friday, December 11, 2026, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Dortmund Campus: EBH – Room B.20/22)
  • Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Dortmund Campus: EF50 – Room 0.215)
  • Friday, January 29, 2027, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Essen Campus: Room R11T03C20)
  • Saturday, January 30, 2027, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Essen Campus: Room R11T03C20)

Language:

German

Learning Objectives:

Students will:

  • acquire basic terminology and concepts related to diversity, racism, gender, and intersectionality.
  • analyze power relations and various forms of discrimination in social contexts.
  • reflect on their own positioning in the context of knowledge and social processes.
  • apply perspectives that are critical of power and sensitive to discrimination to social issues and their own experiences

Coursework:

Active, mandatory participation in the block sessions; willingness to read at least two texts per session; a short reflection paper; and undertaking a small research project to be developed and presented in a group.

Assessment:

The module grade is composed of the following equally weighted components: a group presentation of a self-selected project as part of the final session + a written paper (2–3 pages) on a thematic focus from the sessions (theoretically grounded and/or reflective and personal in nature). Exam requirements: Group presentation + written paper (2–3 pages)

There are 15 spots available for students at TU Dortmund University. No prior subject-specific knowledge is required. Students from all disciplines are expressly invited to enroll in the module.

This course is the introductory module and the first of three modules (5 CP each) that together constitute the Diversity and Gender Certificate. Upon successful completion of all three modules, the certificate can be issued. However, the introductory module can also be taken individually.

Registration

From October 5 to October 16, 2026 (12:00 p.m.), students at TU Dortmund University can register here.

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