Gender Studies (GW)
Gender studies is an interdisciplinary academic field that draws on feminist, gender, and queer theories and scholarship to analyze the experiences, perspectives, and contributions of women, men, non-binary and intersexed people and systems of gender relations in various cultural settings and time periods. The gender studies major is a multidisciplinary program that involves students in the exploration of topics such as the social construction and role of gender within various societies, women's historical and contemporary experiences, and multiple social identities. Completion of the major strengthens students' preparation for further work in fields including gender studies, women's studies, law, public and international affairs, social sciences, the humanities, communications, and the arts. Through the major, students also gain a foundation for understanding the social, intellectual, and political forces that shape their personal and professional lives. The major leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Recommended courses for a prospective major
Fall 2025
Select from:
GW 101 Introduction to Gender Studies
GW 251 Confronting Caste (with permission of the instructor)
Spring 2026*
GW 251
GW 275
EN 223
EN 229
ES 225
SO 204W
SO 216
SO 217
*As of April 2025 and subject to change
Gender Studies Department site
3rd Floor, Ladd Hall
518-580-5240