COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Women’s and Gender Studies requires students to complete a minimum of 36–42 units within the major, with a minimum grade of C- in all courses applied toward the program. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong interdisciplinary understanding of gender, sexuality, social justice, and inequality through theoretical study, cultural analysis, and applied learning. The program begins with a set of core courses totaling 12 units that establish the intellectual foundation of the field. These courses include Introduction to LGBTQ Studies, Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies, Introduction to Feminist Movements in the United States, and Seminar in Feminist Theory. Together, these courses introduce students to key concepts in feminist thought, the historical development of feminist movements, and the social and political contexts that shape gender relations.In addition to the core curriculum, students must complete 15–18 units of departmental elective courses. Students select five to six courses from different thematic categories, ensuring that at least one course is taken from each area. The Political and Social Movements and Applied category focuses on issues such as gender and health, violence against women, disability studies, and feminist activism. The Critical Cultural Studies category explores how gender and sexuality are represented in culture, literature, art, and media, with courses such as Introduction to Gender and Sexuality, Women of Color, and Introduction to Queer and Trans Studies. The Globalization and Transnational Feminisms category examines gender issues within international and global contexts, including topics such as women’s labor, globalization, and gender relations in regions like the Middle East and South Asia.Students must also complete 9–12 units of interdisciplinary elective courses selected from related academic fields. These courses allow students to examine gender issues from multiple perspectives such as sociology, psychology, history, philosophy, criminal justice, economics, and education. Examples include Sociology of Gender, Psychology of Women, Women and the Criminal Justice System, and Philosophy and Feminism. This interdisciplinary approach helps students develop a broader understanding of how gender intersects with social institutions and cultural practices.In addition to major coursework, students must complete general education requirements that support communication, critical thinking, scientific literacy, and cultural awareness. Together, these requirements ensure that graduates develop the analytical, research, and leadership skills necessary to engage with complex social issues and contribute to social change in diverse professional and community settings.