Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies - Feminist Studies
The Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies: Feminist 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 feminist theory, gender dynamics, and the social, political, and cultural forces shaping experiences of women and LGBTQ+ communities. The curriculum integrates gender studies, sociology, history, cultural studies, and research methodology, enabling students to critically examine social inequalities, analyze systemic structures, and explore diverse perspectives on gender, sexuality, and power. Students engage in applied research, community projects, and seminars, cultivating analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for professional or academic careers in social research, advocacy, education, or public policy.
Throughout the program, students participate in workshops, field studies, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in feminist theory, gender studies, and social research. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, applied analysis, and social engagement, preparing graduates to interpret social structures, develop evidence-based interventions, and contribute to academic, policy, or advocacy initiatives. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, critical reasoning, and applied problem-solving abilities, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in gender studies, social sciences, public policy, or advocacy.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies - Feminist 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: Gender & Sexuality Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Feminist Studies
- Introduction to Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies
- Principles of Sociology and Social Analysis
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
- Historical Perspectives on Gender and Feminism
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Gender and Society
- Feminist Theory and Social Movements
- Gender, Culture, and Media
- Applied Research Projects in Social Contexts
- Electives: LGBTQ+ Studies, Race and Gender, or Global Feminism
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Social Justice and Policy in Gender Studies
- Fieldwork and Community Engagement
- Applied Projects on Gender, Sexuality, and Society
- Electives: Human Rights, Intersectionality, or Political Economy of Gender
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Feminist Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research, Advocacy Organizations, or Policy Institutes
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Feminist Studies program are prepared for careers in social research, policy analysis, community advocacy, nonprofit organizations, education, and government agencies. Alumni may work as gender analysts, researchers, educators, policy advisors, or pursue graduate studies in gender studies, sociology, public policy, or social research. The program equips graduates to evaluate social structures, interpret gender dynamics, and develop evidence-based strategies for social change. With strong analytical, research, and applied skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on gender equity, social justice, and applied research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of feminist theory, social analysis, applied research, and interdisciplinary study within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, experiential learning, and applied projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in research, advocacy, and policy development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to examine complex social issues, develop innovative solutions, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about gender studies, social justice, and feminist research, 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
