Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies- General
The Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies: General 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 forces that shape identity and equity. The curriculum integrates feminist theory, sociology, political science, cultural studies, and research methodology, enabling students to critically examine power structures, social norms, and inequalities affecting women and LGBTQ+ communities. Students engage in research, critical analysis, and applied projects, developing the analytical, interpretive, and advocacy skills necessary to address complex social issues.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative research, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in gender studies, sociology, and public policy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary inquiry, and ethical reasoning, preparing graduates to analyze societal structures, design inclusive policies, and promote social justice. Students leave the program with research proficiency, critical insight, analytical skills, and cultural literacy, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in gender studies, social sciences, public policy, or advocacy work.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies- General
- 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 Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Introduction to Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies
- Feminist Theory and History
- Sociology and Social Analysis
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Social Contexts
- Gender, Work, and Society
- Intersectionality and Diversity Studies
- Public Policy and Social Justice
- Electives: Queer Studies, Race and Gender, or Global Feminisms
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Contemporary Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Health, Family, and Society
- Applied Research Methods and Fieldwork
- Electives: Law, Social Policy, or Community Engagement
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Advanced Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Community-Based Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the General Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies program are prepared for careers in social policy, public advocacy, research, education, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. Alumni may work as policy analysts, program coordinators, educators, researchers, or pursue graduate studies in gender studies, public policy, law, or social sciences. The program equips graduates to critically analyze social inequalities, develop evidence-based interventions, and advocate for marginalized communities. With strong research, analytical, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on equity, inclusion, and social justice.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of gender theory, social analysis, applied research, and interdisciplinary scholarship within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and collaborative projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical social applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to influence policy, promote social equity, and contribute meaningfully to research and community initiatives. For students passionate about understanding gender and sexuality, advocating for inclusion, and applying interdisciplinary knowledge to societal 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
