About the Women’s and Gender Studies Program
The gender and women’s studies program at UW offers an inclusive, interdisciplinary academic environment focused on feminism, gender theory and social justice. Designed to complement a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, this minor provides students with a deep understanding of historical and contemporary issues related to power dynamics, activism and social equity.
Students pursuing the graduate minor may develop master’s and doctoral projects related to topics within gender and women’s studies. Our supportive and dedicated faculty often work closely with graduate students on their research.
Students interested in a minor in gender and women’s studies are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to discuss their academic goals. Undergraduate students are eligible for the undergraduate version of this minor, and graduate students will take the graduate curriculum.
Our program’s broad approach incorporates sociology, history, psychology, political science and more. Doing so enables students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career aspirations. So whether you’re pursuing law, business, healthcare, social justice advocacy or academia, there are courses for you.
Many of our students get real-world experience by interning with organizations that focus on gender equity, social justice and advocacy. These opportunities help you apply what you’re learning, grow your professional network and build marketable skills.
Several of our courses also offer service-learning components that foster civic responsibility and allow you to get involved in the community. These projects are a great way to engage with local community members, address gender-related issues and see the direct impact of your work.
What can you do with a gender and women’s studies minor?
An education in women’s and gender studies is an excellent foundation for a multitude of career paths. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, education or policy, this minor can boost your impact. You may apply for jobs in social work, media, business, education, law or other fields!
Many roles benefit from a wider knowledge of gender and women’s issues. Here are some of the roles you may pursue after graduation:
- Lawyer
- Human resources specialist
- Social worker
- Counselor
- Healthcare worker
- Teacher
- Journalist
- University/college administration
- Public policy
- Nonprofit organizations
- Grant writing
- Public service/lobbying
- Wyoming Equality
- Equality State Policy Center
- Rocky Mountain Prep
- International Justice Mission
- University of Southern California
- University of Iowa
- WESTAF
- University of Wyoming
- Emory University
- Columbia University
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Penn State University
The gender and women’s studies program explores the way sexuality and gender shape our world. You’ll study feminist theory, LGBTQ+ studies, intersectionality, activism and more!
“The things I learned in the UW Gender and Women's Studies program have been integral to all of my roles in my career, including college instructor, librarian, domestic violence and sexual assault survivor advocate, communications liaison, and small business owner. The GWST program taught me how to look at every level of our society, from pop culture to policy, to learn about biases and cultural messages. It taught me the skills and knowledge I needed to advocate for myself in a world that will try to disenfranchise me. Most importantly, it taught me the importance of building a community and fighting for what is right. Without Gender & Women’s Studies, I would not be the woman, advocate, or entrepreneur that I am, and I likely would not still be in Wyoming working to improve my home state.”
- Lindsey Hanlon | Former GWST Graduate | Writer & Small Business Owner
