Women's Studies Program — The Program

Women’s studies is an interdisciplinary academic program offering both the major (30 credits) and the minor (18 credits). The program includes both introductory and intermediate courses for students who have a general interest in understanding how the roles of women are changing in contemporary society, as well as advanced courses designed for students undertaking intensive study in the field. The women’s studies curriculum consists of program-based courses (WOST), and selected “department-based” courses in the other programs and departments of the College of Liberal Arts. The program is also open to non-matriculated students. Further information is available from the program office. Many courses in women’s studies meet general education distribution requirements.

An interdisciplinary field, inspired by the social movement for women’s equality, women’s studies consists of research, writing, publishing, and teaching about women’s lives and about gender in society. A major goal of the program is to encourage students to develop a critical understanding of the status of women. Through academic advising, internships, and independent studies, the program also provides assistance to students in developing useful skills, educational goals, and career plans.

The program’s faculty and students work together to bring the history and perspectives of women of different cultures and nations into the courses; to learn about women’s artistic, intellectual, and political accomplishments; and to integrate the new theories about women in society with the actual experience of women in community life.

The Women’s Studies Program sponsors extracurricular activities including forums, workshops, and conferences. Students help plan the program’s activities and serve on the Women’s Studies Advisory Board.

Women’s studies students include women and men of different ages from a variety of backgrounds. The program values the diversity of its students and encourages both students and faculty to be critical of social stereotyping of all kinds.