Women’s Studies

The women’s studies major examines the important role the gender has played throughout history and across world cultures. It addresses aspects of age, race, ethnicity and class and issues of sexism, inequality and bias. Critical thinking skills are acquired by delving into the issues affecting women today. Students may explore why women are paid less than men, or why women hold fewer positions of power in government and the corporate world. They also learn about accomplished women in the past who overcame societal barriers and helped establish a more equal existence for their gender. Students focus on areas such as heritage, contemporary issues, literature and arts. Courses at some universities focus on the study of modern women, women in society, women in popular culture, gender and careers and sexuality in Western culture.

Graduates holding degrees in women’s studies can think critically and analytically, write effectively and lead when called upon. As a result, many have found work in a wide variety fields, including social counseling, communication, human resources and education among many others. It’s a popular choice for the many graduates who plan to make a living of promoting social change. They go to work for advocacy and social services agencies. Women’s studies is also an excellent pre-law major because the aforementioned skills that are acquired are useful for a career in law.