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Women's Studies

Program Description

Just the Facts

Women's Studies. A program that focuses on the history, sociology, politics, culture, and economics of women, and the development of modern feminism in relation to the roles played by women in different periods and locations in North America and the world. Programs may focus on literature, philosophy, and the arts as much as on social studies and policy.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Master's degree
  • Doctoral degree


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Additional Information

Women's studies students examine the oppression of women throughout history, but also the ways in which women have taken power over their lives. They study the history, sociology and politics of women in society.

Students are involved in research in many areas, including anti-racism and racialization, media studies, family violence and the law, women's collective action in the 21st century, oral history, women's literature and feminist politics.

"Our courses emphasize the development of good communication skills, in addition to learning about women's studies and feminist thought and theory," says Helen Rezanowich. She is a program assistant in a women's studies department.

"To this end, classes are usually structured as part lecture, part whole group discussion and part smaller group discussion, with student presentations and written papers as part of the coursework."

Many community colleges also offer two-year programs in women's studies, Rezanowich says. "The number of courses completed and the complexity of the courses is lower if a student has a college diploma instead of a four-year university degree. However, there are many excellent courses offered at colleges at the first- and second-year level."

You can also get a certificate in women's studies. These are awarded along with a major or a minor in another program. For example, if you're majoring in political science and focusing on women in politics, you could add a women's studies certificate to your degree program.

Many women's studies programs draw from a variety of departments, from history to economics. For example, the program at the College of New Jersey in Ewing offers 40 courses in 13 departments.

"Some courses focus specifically on the roles of women, their contributions and experiences," says Ellen Friedman, professor of English and director of the school's women's and gender studies program.

"Other women's and gender studies courses study the impact of women and gender on various cultures at various times, and enable students to understand and evaluate changing social patterns and the effects of institutions and cultural assumptions."

Specific courses in Friedman's program include women and health, literary perspectives on men and masculinity, and feminist theory. Courses are also required in theory and research methods.

Rezanowich emphasizes that women's studies is not for women only. "While most of our students are women, men are welcome in our courses, and several have completed BAs in women's studies."

Susanne Dietzel teaches women's studies at at Loyola University New Orleans. She suggests that high school students take classes in which they learn to think and read critically and participate in volunteer work with social service agencies that serve women.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Social Scientists, Other

Comprehensive Women's Websites
A list of related links

National Women's History Project
Its mission is to recognize and celebrate the diverse and historic accomplishments of women

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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