Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies
The Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of gender, sexuality, and the social, cultural, and political factors that shape identity and equity. The curriculum integrates feminist theory, sociology, history, policy studies, and cultural analysis, enabling students to explore the experiences, challenges, and contributions of women and marginalized groups across societies. Students engage in critical research, textual analysis, and community-based projects, developing analytical and interpretive skills to evaluate social structures, policies, and cultural narratives that affect gender and sexuality.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative projects, and applied research guided by faculty with expertise in gender studies, sociology, and public policy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and interdisciplinary scholarship, allowing graduates to understand and address systemic inequalities while advocating for social justice. Students leave the program with research proficiency, analytical insight, critical thinking, and cultural literacy, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in education, public policy, advocacy, or social sciences.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Family & Consumer Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies
- Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Feminist Theory and History
- Sociology and Social Analysis
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Social Contexts
- Women, Work, and Society
- Intersectionality and Diversity Studies
- Public Policy and Gender
- Electives: Queer Studies, Race and Gender, or Global Feminisms
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Research
- Gender and Media Representation
- Health, Family, and Society
- Applied Research Methods and Fieldwork
- Elective: Law, Politics, or Social Justice
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Gender Studies
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Applied Projects in Advocacy or Community Engagement
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies program are prepared for careers in public policy, social advocacy, education, nonprofit organizations, research, and community development. Alumni may work as policy analysts, program coordinators, educators, diversity and inclusion specialists, or pursue graduate studies in social sciences, law, public health, or gender studies. The program equips graduates to critically assess social inequalities, design inclusive policies, and advocate for marginalized communities. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments that prioritize social justice and equity.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of gender analysis, critical theory, applied research, and interdisciplinary learning within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork, and collaborative projects that connect theoretical knowledge to practical advocacy and community engagement. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to influence policy, research societal issues, and promote equity across professional and social contexts. For students passionate about understanding gender, sexuality, and social justice, and applying interdisciplinary knowledge to real-world challenges, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
