Gender and Sexuality Studies
Vanderbilt University’s Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Sexuality Studies offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding how gender and sexuality intersect with culture, history, politics, and society. The program invites students to explore diverse perspectives and challenge traditional norms by engaging with critical theories, feminist thought, and queer studies. Courses draw from a wide range of academic disciplines such as literature, sociology, philosophy, history, and media studies, allowing students to analyze the social construction of identity, power dynamics, and institutional structures that shape lived experiences.
This program emphasizes research, dialogue, and critical engagement with both classical and contemporary issues. Students learn to evaluate texts, policies, and cultural productions through intersectional frameworks, gaining insights into how gender and sexuality relate to race, class, ethnicity, and nationality. Faculty encourage students to apply these frameworks to real-world contexts through internships, community-based learning, and independent research. By fostering critical thinking and ethical reflection, the program cultivates a deep awareness of social justice, equity, and the mechanisms of change in local and global spheres.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Vanderbilt University, United States
- Field of Study: Gender & Sexuality Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Gender and Sexuality
• Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies
• Feminist Theories and Histories
• Critical Reading and Writing Seminar
• Gender in Global Perspective
Year 2 – Social Structures and Identity Politics
• Queer Theory
• Gender, Race, and Class in America
• Media, Representation, and Identity
• Research Methods in Gender Studies
Year 3 – Applied Theory and Intersectional Analysis
• Politics of Reproduction and Family
• Masculinities and Power
• Gender and Public Policy
• Community-Based Internship or Fieldwork
Year 4 – Capstone and Independent Exploration
• Advanced Seminar in Gender and Sexuality
• Senior Thesis or Research Project
• Contemporary Debates in Queer Studies
• Electives in Law, Ethics, or International Studies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a wide range of professional roles that value cultural competence, critical analysis, and strong communication skills. Alumni often work in nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, human rights institutions, and government agencies that focus on equality, inclusion, and public policy. The program also provides an excellent foundation for careers in education, media, social work, and community development. Those interested in further study often pursue advanced degrees in law, public health, gender studies, or sociology, leveraging their undergraduate training to contribute to meaningful social transformation and institutional change.
Why Choose This Program
Vanderbilt’s Gender and Sexuality Studies program stands out for its interdisciplinary curriculum, dedicated faculty, and commitment to social engagement and intellectual rigor. Students are encouraged to connect theory with lived experience through immersive projects and real-world activism. The department’s inclusive and collaborative academic environment supports diverse identities and fosters open dialogue. With opportunities for research, community partnerships, and personalized mentorship, the program equips students with the tools to challenge injustice, promote equity, and influence progressive change in a variety of professional and civic arenas.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: (615) 322-2561
Email: admissions@vanderbilt.edu
Address: University of Vanderbilt, Office of Undergraduate Admissions, 2305 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203‑1727, United States
