Women’s and Gender Studies

Women’s and Gender Studies at Rutgers University-Camden offers an interdisciplinary program dedicated to exploring issues of gender, sexuality, and women’s rights across historical, cultural, and social contexts. The curriculum provides students with a comprehensive understanding of gender as a central aspect of identity and social organization, fostering critical thinking about how gender influences various aspects of life, including politics, culture, and personal experiences. The program encourages students to examine the intersections of gender with race, class, ethnicity, ability, and other social categories, promoting a nuanced perspective on social justice and equality. Through coursework in areas such as feminist theory, queer studies, gender and globalization, and men’s studies, students gain valuable analytical skills and a deep awareness of the complexities surrounding gender issues. The program also emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research projects that connect theory to real-world applications. Graduates of the Women’s and Gender Studies program are prepared for diverse careers in education, social services, advocacy, public policy, and beyond. They are equipped to contribute thoughtfully to discussions on gender equity and social change, and many students continue their education through advanced degrees in law, social work, education, or gender studies. The program aims to cultivate informed, empathetic, and socially conscious individuals committed to advancing gender justice and understanding diverse experiences related to gender identity and expression. Through a vibrant academic community and dedicated faculty, Rutgers-Camden’s Women’s and Gender Studies program invites students to challenge assumptions, question norms, and engage actively in shaping a more equitable society.

The Women and Gender Studies program at Rutgers University-Camden offers an interdisciplinary curriculum designed to explore the complex constructs of gender, sexuality, and femininity across different cultures and historical periods. This program aims to foster critical thinking about gender roles, social identities, power structures, and social justice issues that impact individuals and communities worldwide. Students enrolled in this program will engage with a diverse array of subjects, including feminist theories, LGBTQ+ studies, race and ethnicity, media representations, and policy analysis, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of gender dynamics in contemporary society.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, encouraging students to connect academic insights with real-world issues. Courses are structured to promote critical analysis, oral and written communication skills, and research capabilities. These skills prepare graduates for careers in education, public policy, social work, advocacy, journalism, and further academic pursuits. The program also emphasizes experiential learning opportunities, including internships, community engagement projects, and scholarly research, to deepen students’ understanding of gender-related issues and to promote active participation in social change.

Students have the opportunity to tailor their academic experience by selecting from a variety of electives that cover topics such as gender and health, global feminism, gender and technology, and gender in different cultural contexts. The program encourages an intersectional approach, examining how race, class, ethnicity, and other social identities intersect with gender to influence individual experiences and societal structures. The faculty members are experts in their fields, dedicated to mentoring students and fostering an inclusive learning environment that respects diverse perspectives.

Graduates of the Women and Gender Studies program at Rutgers University-Camden are equipped with critical analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of gender issues, preparing them for impactful careers or advanced study. The program emphasizes social awareness, justice, and equality, inspiring students to become informed and empathetic advocates for change within their communities and beyond. Through lectures, discussions, research projects, and community involvement, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address gender inequalities and contribute positively to society.

Program requirements for Women and Gender Studies at Rutgers University-Camden include completing a minimum of 18 credit hours of coursework. Students must take core courses in feminist theories, gender analysis, and the history of women's movements to establish foundational knowledge in the field. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized topics such as gender and sexuality, gender violence, race and ethnicity, queer studies, and gender and public policy. A minimum of 6 credits must be earned in electives outside the department to encourage interdisciplinary perspectives.

Students are often encouraged to engage in research projects or internships related to gender issues to gain practical experience. A capstone project or thesis is typically required for graduation, enabling students to synthesize and apply their learning on a specific topic within women and gender studies. Admission to certain courses may require prerequisites or departmental consent. Additional requirements may include maintaining a minimum GPA specified by the university, usually around 2.0-2.5, depending on departmental standards.

Participation in seminars, discussion groups, and workshops is recommended to enhance scholarly engagement and professional development. Students are also expected to be familiar with relevant academic and social issues pertaining to gender, supporting the university’s mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Overall, the program aims to provide students with critical analytical skills, comprehensive understanding of gender-related topics, and preparation for careers in education, social services, advocacy, or further academic pursuits.

The Bloustein School offers many opportunities for funding and support to qualified students in its graduate urban planning, public policy and doctoral programs. Merit-based aid is awarded to students in several forms, as described below. Financial aid packages may be for a single year, or multiyear, and may combine university, school, and outside sources.

Women and Gender Studies at Rutgers University-Camden offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary program that explores issues related to gender, sexuality, and power within a variety of cultural, social, and historical contexts. The program aims to foster critical thinking and promote social justice by examining how gender identities intersect with race, class, ethnicity, and other axes of identity and difference. Students engaged in this major have opportunities to study feminist theories, LGBTQ+ studies, intersectionality, and social activism, among other topics. The curriculum includes courses that analyze gender in literature, history, politics, economics, and media, encouraging students to develop a nuanced understanding of the ways gender influences individual and collective experiences. The program also emphasizes experiential learning through internships, community projects, and research, preparing students for careers in education, advocacy, public policy, social services, and related fields. Faculty members are actively involved in scholarly research and community engagement, providing mentorship and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The Women and Gender Studies program at Rutgers-Camden encourages students to think critically about gender norms and inequalities, promoting awareness and empowering them to contribute to positive social change. The program is designed for undergraduate students seeking a deep engagement with contemporary issues or graduate students interested in advanced study. Overall, it offers a rigorous and inclusive academic experience that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address complex social issues related to gender and identity.