Academic Programs and Services

Women's Studies/Gender Studies

The Women’s Studies/Gender Studies curriculum is appropriate for students who wish to emphasize the study of what it means to be a woman or a man, whether for personal interest or with the goal of transfer to major in women’s studies, gender studies, sociology or related fields. The Women’s Studies/Gender Studies program combines a core of academic courses in the humanities and social sciences with a general education foundation.

Students are expected to consult with an academic advisor or counselor upon entry to the program and in subsequent semesters. Transfer planning should begin early so that the student can gain the most benefit from the curriculum. Students who plan to attend a specific four-year college after graduation should choose elective courses that duplicate as closely as possible those in the first two years of the program of that college.

Note: Many, but not all, transfer institutions require some knowledge of a foreign language (from one semester to two years of study at the college level or the equivalent). Some accept American Sign Language and some allow non-native speakers of English to count proficiency in their primary language, or to count English as their language (as does the College). Students planning to transfer should be aware of foreign language requirements which may affect their acceptance into certain colleges and programs.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:

• Understand the complexities of gender and the ways in which gender roles impact the life choices available to women and men.
• Reflect critically on the diversity of women’s and men’s experience in their own and other cultures.
• Function more effectively in the workplace and in their personal lives through a broader perspective on gender relationships.
• Appreciate the diversity of women’s and men’s experience in their own and other cultures.
• Enter the public conversation concerning gender roles and the public policy debate.

Program Entry Requirements:
Students are typically required to take the College’s placement tests at their time of entry. Students identified as needing developmental course work must satisfactorily complete the appropriate English and mathematics courses as a part of their degree program.

Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:
To qualify for the Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree in Women’s Studies/Gender Studies a student must complete a minimum of 61 credit hours as prescribed and attain a grade point average of 2.0 ("C" average).

Download a printable degree description (PDF File) that includes a recommended course sequence grid.