Women’s and Gender Studies
Do you want to help others in your local community or even around the world? Are you dreaming of medical or law school? Women’s and gender studies is a major that can prepare you for a multitude of careers. As many of our students say, “Studying in this major is like finding a home in a school of thousands.”
Focused on intersectionality and issues facing people of color and the LGBTQ community, our close-knit program allows you to receive a specialized education and hands-on learning opportunities. We prepare students with the analytical skills and knowledge needed to understand the contributions, perspectives, experiences and status of both women and men in society. The major provides a well-rounded education that gives students the ability to consider a wide variety of careers.
Women’s and gender studies students are prominent campus advocates with a strong presence in the University and local community. Through campus events and student organizations such as fireside chats, Spectrum and honor society Iota Iota Iota, our program is committed to preparing the community and workplace leaders of the future.
How will I focus my studies?
Women’s and gender studies students have unlimited possibilities. You can choose to take courses in other disciplines and direct your studies toward your passions. Study gender, sexuality and race through the exploration of the hard sciences, social sciences or the humanities. Many of our students complete a dual degree to specialize their studies further.
Minor
The women's and gender studies minor complements many other fields of study and gives you a special edge in the job market. Students often find that a minor in women’s and gender studies contributes greatly to their major programs in psychology, communication studies, political science or journalism, to name a few. The minor program requires 18 hours of approved courses at the introductory and advanced level.
Shaniyah Jasper, Iselin, N.J.
Major: Women's and Gender Studies and International Studies
Shaniyah Jasper first became interested in women’s and gender studies in high school because she “wanted to work with and for women’s rights and be an advocate in some way.” In the future, Jasper aspires to practice law and be an active advocate for marginalized individuals.
"My major is preparing me for this because I am more understanding of intersectionality and inclusivity, which is important in any type of work. Women's and gender studies is a gateway to advocacy, which is why I matched my major with the law and legal studies minor."
Shaniyah aspires to help improve the everyday lives of women around the world, which led her to travel to Uganda in 2017 to advocate for women’s rights and teach about HIV/AIDS prevention.