Why Women's and Gender Studies?

Young girl holding

The Women's and Gender Studies major and minor offers the opportunity to engage in a critical review of society, deriving a vision of social justice that is basic to feminist thought. Students participate in a vibrant interdisciplinary program that looks at the intersections of gender, power, and knowledge production. Our mission is to foster a vigorous intellectual environment where students can develop their analytical thinking skills and conceptual tools for social change.

What Do Women's and Gender Studies Majors Do?

Women's and Gender Studies students acquire a critical understanding of the complex ways gender shapes the world, particularly in relation to race, sexuality, class, and other social factors. They gain a strong commitment to social justice, learn new methodologies and theoretical tools, and learn to express themselves well both orally and in writing. Program graduates go into law, medicine, social work, government service, community organizations as well as many other fields.

Is This Major Right for You?

The Women's and Gender Studies major may be right for you if you:

  • Want to serve your community as a leader for gender justice and social justice
  • Value diversity in a complex world
  • Have a range of academic interests
  • Appreciate the contributions of women

About Our Faculty

Our faculty members are experts in topics such as feminist theories, gender and communication, women and environmental justice, gender and media, and the intersection of gender, race, class, and sexuality. Our faculty are award winning teachers, active researchers and published scholars. Our affiliated faculty come from departments such as African American Studies, Biology, Chicano/a Studies, Communication Studies, English, Film, History, Political Science, and Sociology.