Women's and Gender Studies

 

The Women's and Gender Studies Program (WGSP) offers courses about women and gender for all students. The program is designed to explore the experiences and cultural contributions of women and those in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community as well as examine the societal implications of gender. Informed by feminist, gender, and sexuality theory, the courses in the WGSP challenge false assumptions and theories about women, gender, sexuality, race, and class; encourage rigorous critical thinking; raise issues of gender bias and the subjective nature of knowledge; support students' development as individuals and as participating members of their larger communities; and expand options for all beyond traditional gender roles. These writing-intensive courses help students consider the differences gender and sexuality make-in family relationships, friendships, education, and work. These classes are comfortable settings for delving into scholarship and theory.

In addition to the interdisciplinary introductory courses on women's, gender, and LGBT studies, courses in the program include women's history, philosophy, literature, sociology, psychology, physical education, and health. Honors modules are available for some classes. Opportunities to pursue independent study projects are also available. Service learning and Honors internships opportunities are frequently offered. Most courses fulfill General Education requirements in the humanities or behavioral and social sciences distribution areas as well as the College's multicultural requirement.

A certificate in women's and gender studies can be earned by students who complete 12 or more credits in courses approved by the WGSP. These courses must include WMST 101, Introduction to Women's Studies. The WGSP also features speakers, seminars, and other programs, including active women's and gender studies student clubs. Student awards and scholarships are presented annually.

For more information at the Germantown Campus, please visit the office at 186 Humanities and Social Sciences Building; for more information at the Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, please visit the office at 227 North Pavilion. The collegewide office, located in 212 Macklin Tower, Rockville Campus, provides academic advising and materials and information on upcoming events.

Women's and Gender Studies Certificate

Learn more about program outcomes, required courses, transfer opportunities, and career information.

• Women's and Gender Studies Certificate

• See Fall 2024 Certificate classes (PDF, )

For working professionals and students, this badge (PDF, ) validates that the earner/student participant has demonstrated competencies in gender equity topics via critical analysis through a series of activities and written artifacts without significant course completion. Learn more.  

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