

The Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of gender, sexuality, and social justice, emphasizing critical thinking, intersectional analysis, and research skills. Students explore the social, cultural, political, and historical constructions of gender and sexuality while examining issues of power, identity, and inequality. The curriculum integrates feminist theory, queer studies, sociology, history, and cultural studies, allowing students to develop expertise in both theoretical frameworks and applied research. Students cultivate skills in analytical reasoning, communication, advocacy, and policy evaluation, preparing them to address complex issues related to gender, sexuality, and social equity in academic, professional, and community contexts.
Throughout the program, students develop expertise in critical analysis, research, and advocacy essential for careers in education, social services, policy, media, and nonprofit organizations. Exposure to interdisciplinary approaches ensures graduates can critically evaluate social structures, cultural phenomena, and political processes from a gendered and intersectional perspective. By fostering independent inquiry, applied research, and community engagement, the program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to scholarship, social justice initiatives, and professional endeavors focused on gender, sexuality, and equality.
Year 1 – Foundations in Gender and Sexuality Studies
• Introduction to Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
• Feminist Theory and Historical Perspectives
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
• Social and Cultural Analysis
Year 2 – Core Studies in Gender, Society, and Culture
• Intersectionality and Social Justice
• Queer Studies and Critical Theory
• Research Methods in Gender Studies
• Elective Modules in Sociology, History, or Media
Year 3 – Advanced Research and Applied Projects
• Seminar in Contemporary Gender Issues
• Research Project or Internship
• Policy and Advocacy Studies
• Elective Modules in Literature, Politics, or Cultural Studies
Year 4 – Independent Research and Capstone Project
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Advanced Topics in Women, Gender, and Sexuality
• Data Analysis and Policy Evaluation
• Capstone Project Presentation
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in education, social services, public policy, nonprofit organizations, media, advocacy, research, and community programming. They can work as educators, researchers, policy analysts, program coordinators, diversity and inclusion specialists, or social justice advocates. The program equips students with expertise in critical analysis, research, communication, advocacy, and project management, enabling them to pursue versatile roles in policy development, community engagement, media, education, and research. Alumni may also continue their education in graduate programs in gender studies, sociology, public policy, social work, or law, providing highly competitive and adaptable career pathways.
This program combines theoretical study, applied research, and social engagement, giving students a thorough understanding of gender, sexuality, and social justice. Small classes and faculty mentorship provide personalized guidance, fostering independent research, analytical skills, and advocacy expertise. The curriculum emphasizes applied research, community engagement, and critical examination of contemporary social issues, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in education, policy, advocacy, research, and nonprofit sectors. By engaging with advanced coursework, research projects, and internships, students gain the knowledge, analytical expertise, and practical experience necessary for impactful careers in scholarship, social justice initiatives, policy, and further graduate study.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States