Gender and Women's Studies

Gender and Women's Studies at Brandon University offers an interdisciplinary exploration of gender identities, feminist theories, social justice issues, and the cultural constructions of gender across different societies and historical periods. The program is designed to critically analyze gender as a fundamental aspect of human experience and to address issues of inequality, discrimination, and empowerment. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including gender roles, sexuality, intersectionality, race, ethnicity, class, and disability, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how gender shapes individual lives and societal structures. The curriculum incorporates perspectives from sociology, history, literature, political science, and cultural studies, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. Through coursework, discussions, and research projects, students will examine contemporary debates surrounding gender equality, social justice movements, and policy development. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, social services, advocacy, public policy, and further academic pursuits. Faculty members are dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that promotes diversity, equity, and social change. Whether students are interested in academic research, community activism, or policy advocacy, the Gender and Women's Studies program provides a solid foundation for understanding and addressing gender-related issues in a global context. By combining theoretical frameworks with practical applications, graduates will be equipped to contribute meaningfully to creating a more just and equitable society.

Program Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women's Studies at Brandon University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of gender issues, feminism, and social justice. This program is designed to provide students with a critical understanding of how gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, and other social identities, shaping individual experiences and societal structures. Through a combination of academic coursework, research opportunities, and community engagement, students will develop analytical skills and a nuanced perspective on gender-related topics, preparing them for diverse careers in education, social services, advocacy, policy development, and more.

Curriculum and Courses:

The program features a diverse curriculum that covers key areas such as feminist theory, history of women's movements, LGBTQ+ studies, media representation, and gender in global contexts. Core courses include introductory classes that establish foundational concepts, as well as advanced seminars that encourage critical analysis and original research. Students explore contemporary issues such as gender-based violence, reproductive rights, social inequalities, and gender identity politics. Electives allow for specialization and deeper engagement with specific topics, while interdisciplinary approaches integrate perspectives from sociology, psychology, history, literature, and cultural studies.

Research and Practical Experience:

Brandon University's Gender and Women's Studies program emphasizes experiential learning through research projects, internships, and community-based initiatives. Students are encouraged to participate in local and international advocacy groups, gaining practical experience and networking opportunities within the field. Faculty members are active researchers who mentor students and facilitate ongoing projects addressing social justice issues. The program equips graduates with critical thinking, communication, and advocacy skills, empowering them to become informed citizens and effective change agents.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in education, community development, social work, human rights organizations, government agencies, and non-profit sectors. Many pursue advanced degrees in gender studies, social work, law, or public policy. The program's interdisciplinary approach and focus on social justice issues make it highly relevant in today's diverse and evolving society. Brandon University’s Gender and Women's Studies program nurtures socially conscious individuals committed to fostering equity and inclusion both locally and globally.

Program Goals:

Our aim is to foster a critical understanding of gender as a fundamental aspect of human identity and social organization. We strive to promote active engagement with issues of gender inequality, empower students to challenge injustices, and contribute meaningfully to social transformation. Through academic excellence and community involvement, the program prepares students to become thoughtful leaders and advocates for change in a complex world.

Admission Requirements:

Admission to the program requires completion of high school diploma or equivalent, with a strong interest in social issues and academic readiness for university-level coursework. Specific prerequisites and application procedures can be found on the Brandon University admissions webpage.

For more information about the Gender and Women's Studies program, contact the Brandon University academic advising office or visit our official website.

Program requirements for the Gender and Women's Studies major at Brandon University include a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone experience. Students must complete a minimum of 40 credit hours to fulfill the degree requirements. The core curriculum consists of foundational courses such as Introduction to Gender and Women's Studies, which examine the historical and social constructions of gender, as well as courses on feminist theory and research methodologies. Students are encouraged to diversify their learning by choosing electives from related disciplines including Sociology, Anthropology, History, Psychology, and Political Science that explore various aspects of gender and social justice issues. Advanced courses focusing on topics like women’s rights, queer studies, masculinity studies, and gender in global contexts are also available. To ensure practical application of knowledge, students are often required to participate in internships, community service learning projects, or research assistantships. Additionally, the program typically includes a capstone project or thesis where students conduct original research under faculty supervision, synthesizing their learning and demonstrating critical analysis. Students must also meet specific prerequisites for upper-year courses, which generally include successful completion of introductory courses within the program. The university emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills through reading diverse texts, engaging in discussions, and applying theory to real-world issues. Furthermore, students are advised to consult the program handbook and meet with academic advisors to plan their course schedules in accordance with their career goals. Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, advocacy, social services, public policy, and further academic study, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of gender-related topics and social justice frameworks.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Gender and Women's Studies program at Brandon University offers various financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for undergraduate courses are structured across different levels, with domestic students benefiting from provincial and federal financial aid programs, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants. International students are also eligible for specific scholarships and may need to explore private funding sources or external scholarships to finance their studies. Brandon University provides a range of scholarships dedicated to students enrolled in Gender and Women's Studies, which are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or community involvement. Bursaries are available for students demonstrating financial hardship, ensuring that economic challenges do not hinder educational pursuits. Students are encouraged to apply early and to consult the university’s financial aid office for detailed information on available funding opportunities, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. Additionally, students may seek external funding sources such as government student loans, external scholarships, and employer-sponsored educational assistance programs. Work-study opportunities are also accessible to eligible students, allowing them to earn income while gaining valuable work experience related to their field of study. The university offers financial planning services to help students manage their educational expenses effectively. It is important for students to stay informed about deadlines and specific requirements for each funding opportunity, as application processes and eligibility criteria may vary. Overall, Brandon University is committed to providing financial support to ensure that students in the Gender and Women's Studies program can focus on their education without undue financial stress.

Gender and Women's Studies at Brandon University offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the social, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of gender and sexuality. The program aims to promote a deeper understanding of gender issues, gender inequality, and women’s rights within various societal contexts, fostering critical thinking and advocacy skills among students. Courses cover diverse topics, including feminist theory, gender identity, historical perspectives on women’s movements, media representations, and the intersectionality of gender with race, class, and sexuality. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, encouraging students to analyze contemporary issues related to gender and develop strategies for social change. It provides opportunities for research, community engagement, and experiential learning through projects and collaborations with local organizations. The curriculum is designed to be accessible to students from various academic backgrounds, supporting both majors and minors interested in gender studies, women’s issues, social justice, and related fields. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in education, advocacy, social services, government, or further academic study, equipped with critical skills necessary to challenge inequalities and contribute to a more equitable society. Brandon University’s Gender and Women's Studies program values inclusivity, diversity, and active engagement with real-world challenges faced by marginalized groups. The program also seeks to foster a community of informed, empathetic individuals committed to social justice and equality.