Mar 29, 2024  
2017-2018 Course Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Women’s Studies, B.A.


The Women’s Studies major is an interdisciplinary study of the way gender (the social distinctions between men and women) and sexuality (sexual identities, practices, discourses and institutions) affect the structure of cultures and the experiences of their members. Students examine the history, expression and diversity (such as racial, ethnic, cross-cultural or class) of women’s experiences, using various methods of feminist scholarship to identify the origins of and changes in cultural and social arrangements.

The Women’s Studies’ emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary inquiry prepares students for a range of careers including law, management, education, health care, social services, government, the arts, journalism and publishing.

Program outcomes

The student will:

  • Analyze and synthesize multiple perspectives and disciplines
  • Apply theory and strategy for action and problem-solving
  • Recognize and analyze current conflicts or situations as a matrix of cultural, historical and social forces
  • Exercise the higher-level thinking and flexibility needed for multiple employment opportunities and life-long learning
  • Recognize the social construction of what is deemed “natural”
  • Conduct research and write position papers

Degree requirements (36 credits)


Courses for a concentration, electives or the minor


Requires examining the diversity in the study of Women’s Studies as well as a concentration within a specific field. Students must meet with their advisor to choose a concentration of two related courses and their senior coordinating seminar. Examples of possible concentrations include: Women in the Arts; Women, Science and Health; Women and International Studies; Women and Politics.