Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies offers an interdisciplinary exploration of how gender, sexuality, identity, and power shape social structures, cultural norms, and individual experience. Students examine foundational theories in feminist thought, queer studies, social justice movements, and global gender dynamics while analyzing how social institutions influence lived realities across different communities. Through coursework that emphasizes critical theory, historical inquiry, and analytical interpretation, learners develop a deep understanding of how inequalities are constructed and challenged. This foundation strengthens critical awareness, theoretical insight, contextual analysis, and interpretive clarity, enabling students to engage with gender-related issues from informed and nuanced perspectives.
Across four years, the program guides students through advanced study of gendered experiences across literature, politics, economics, media, health, and global cultures. Learners investigate intersections of race, class, nationality, disability, and sexuality, examining how identity shapes access to resources and representation. The curriculum integrates research methods, community engagement, writing-intensive analysis, and interdisciplinary dialogue, giving students the tools to investigate both structural injustices and cultural possibilities. Through seminars, independent research, and experiential learning, students refine their ability to critique social dynamics, interpret cultural narratives, and understand the complexities of identity. This sustained inquiry cultivates methodological rigor, research competence, social insight, and scholarly independence, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully to equity-oriented fields and discussions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Gender & Sexuality Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Gender & Sexuality Studies
· Introduction to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
· Global Perspectives on Gender
· Fundamentals of Critical Interpretation
· Methods in Social and Cultural Research
Year 2 – Core Concepts & Theoretical Frameworks
· Feminist Theory: Historical to Contemporary
· Queer Theory and LGBTQ+ Studies
· Gender, Power, and Social Institutions
· Research Methods in Intersectional Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Inquiry into Identity & Society
· Gender, Race, and Social Justice
· Sexuality, Culture, and Representation
· Global Feminist Movements
· Independent Study / Interdisciplinary Research Project
Year 4 – Thesis & Scholarly Integration
· Senior Thesis / Gender & Sexuality Research
· Advanced Seminar in Gender Theory
· Topics in Body Politics, Identity, or Cultural Studies
· Academic Portfolio & Presentation Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers that require strong analytical ability, cultural understanding, and a commitment to equity-focused work. Many find roles in nonprofit and advocacy organizations, public policy and community development, education and academic support, and health and social service agencies, contributing to program coordination, outreach, research, and social impact initiatives. Additional opportunities arise in journalism, media, human rights organizations, diversity and inclusion roles, cultural institutions, and international development, where the ability to interpret identity-based dynamics is essential. With training in research methodology, critical analysis, and intersectional thinking, graduates can assess social patterns, challenge systemic inequities, and collaborate with diverse communities to support meaningful social change.
Why Choose This Program
This program is designed for students seeking a curriculum grounded in comprehensive gender and sexuality studies, offering the theoretical, cultural, and analytical tools needed to understand identity and inequality. Over four years, learners build strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills through interdisciplinary coursework, community engagement, and independent study. The curriculum fosters industry-relevant expertise suited to fields such as advocacy, public policy, education, social work, and cultural programming. With its emphasis on intersectionality, analytical rigor, and social justice, the program cultivates strong intellectual judgment, empowering graduates to engage thoughtfully with complex questions about gender, sexuality, and power in contemporary society.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
