Women and Gender Studies (WGS)

Courses

WGS 200. Introduction to Gender Studies. 3 Credits.

An interdisciplinary introduction to the processes by which gender is socially constructed, in relation to sex and sexuality. This course will provide the tools to analyze the complex intersections of gender with other categories like race, ability, class, and religion and understand how they affect the circulation of power. Students will reflect on their identity and experiences, and how these concepts shape our lives and our world. This class will engage with pressing social issues and influential cultural representations, norms, practices, and institutions. F,S,SS.

WGS 225. Introduction to Women Studies. 3 Credits.

An introduction to the interdisciplinary field of Women Studies, with an emphasis on transnational feminism as a critical lens with which to assess the status and contributions of women and girls around the globe in the present day. Students will analyze and understand power structures in intranational and international contexts by evaluating the complex and intersecting forces that shape the lives of people who identify as women and girls. F,S,SS.

WGS 480. Feminist Theory. 3 Credits.

Feminist theory examines the foundations of American feminism from enlightenment liberal to postmodern and standpoint theories. The course first develops then critiques these fundamental approaches. Opportunities are provided to integrate mainstream and marginal experiences of feminist theory and its practice. Prerequisite: WGS 200 or WGS 225. On demand.

WGS 492. Senior Study: Women and Gender Studies. 1-4 Credits.

Supervised independent study involving a theory paper, practicum experience, or a combination of the two. Prerequisite: WGS 200 or WGS 225. On demand.