Women and Gender Studies

Women and Gender Studies at San Francisco State University offers an interdisciplinary academic program dedicated to exploring the social, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of gender and sexuality. This program aims to foster critical thinking and broaden understanding of how gender influences individual identities and societal structures. Students engage with a diverse range of topics, including feminist theory, LGBTQ+ studies, race and ethnicity, disability studies, history, literature, and media representation. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, equity, and inclusion, encouraging students to analyze power dynamics and advocate for positive change within their communities and beyond. Through rigorous coursework, research projects, and community engagement, students gain a comprehensive perspective on gender-related issues and learn to approach complex societal challenges with analytical skills and ethical awareness. The program prepares graduates for careers in advocacy, education, social services, policy analysis, media, and other fields where gender issues are central. Faculty members are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that supports diverse perspectives and experiences. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for internships, conferences, and collaborations with local organizations to deepen practical understanding and real-world impact. Graduates of the Women and Gender Studies program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to ongoing discussions about gender equality, social justice, and human rights. This degree serves as a foundation for further academic pursuits or professional pathways that aim to create equitable and inclusive societies.

Core Requirements = 15 units

• WGS 700: Introduction to Graduate Studies (3)
• WGS 710: Feminist Social Movements (3)
• WGS 712: Queer Theories (3)
• WGS 713: Intellectual Genealogies (3)
• WGS 820: Feminist Research Methods (3)

Total units for core = 15

3 units selected from the following on advisement

WGS 894: Creative Work Project
WGS 895: Field Study Project
WGS 898: Master’s Thesis

12 Related Field Units (upon approval of adviser) = 12

Minimum Total units = 30

Written English Proficiency

First Level: Satisfactory performance in the final research paper for WGS 700

Second Level: Successful completion of WGS 894, 895 or 898

Requirements

1. They must also complete an academic program (major or minor) in Women and Gender Studies at an accredited institution prior to matriculation. In cases where a student’s academic profile shows promise but the student has not completed an undergraduate program in WGS, the admission committee will require the incoming M.A. student to take 9 - 12 upper-division undergraduate units upon advisement. These undergraduate courses will not count toward the M.A. degree. Once completed, the matriculated student will be granted classified status in the Women and Gender Studies M.A. program.
2. Transcripts of all previous course work;
3. A 750-word statement describing your academic background, intentions and goals, including experience in women and gender studies; rationale for pursuing the M.A. degree; relation of the M.A. degree in Women and Gender Studies to prior academic work and career objectives.
4. Two letters of reference from individuals with direct knowledge of the applicant's scholarly ability.
5. Submit application fee: $55 by credit card online, personal check, or money order
6. Submit an official TOEFL score report, IELTS score report, or PTE Academic score report.
7. Submit certified English translations for all non-English documents

The Women and Gender Studies program at San Francisco State University offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to support students throughout their academic journey. Funding options include federal and state financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which students are encouraged to complete annually to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university provides institutional scholarships and grants specifically aimed at undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Women and Gender Studies courses, which may be awarded based on merit, need, or intended area of focus within the discipline. Additionally, the university promotes external scholarship opportunities through partnerships with community organizations, foundations, and educational funds dedicated to advancing gender equality and women's rights, encouraging students to apply for a diverse range of financial support sources.

Graduate students in the program may also consider teaching or research assistantships, which offer stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for academic work that enhances their professional development. Certain fellowships and grants are available for students engaged in research projects aligned with the program’s focus areas, providing additional financial resources to support their scholarly activities. It is advisable for students to consult the university’s Financial Aid Office and the Women and Gender Studies Department for personalized guidance and current application deadlines.

Moreover, the university offers payment plans and emergency financial support for students facing unforeseen financial hardships. Many students also utilize part-time employment opportunities on campus or in the surrounding community to offset costs. While specific program-specific scholarships are limited, the university encourages applicants to explore all available financial aid options early in their academic planning to ensure comprehensive financial support during their studies. Overall, San Francisco State University is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for students pursuing studies in Women and Gender Studies through a combination of federal, state, institutional, and external funding sources.

Women and Gender Studies at San Francisco State University offers a comprehensive multidisciplinary program dedicated to exploring the social, political, cultural, and historical constructions of gender and sexuality. The program aims to foster critical thinking and promote social justice by examining issues such as gender inequality, feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, race, class, and ethnicity through various academic lenses, including sociology, history, literature, and political science. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary debates and scholarly discourses to understand the ways in which gender shapes individual identities and societal structures. The curriculum includes a range of courses that cover topics like feminism theories, women’s history, queer studies, gender and media, and intersectionality, providing students with a nuanced understanding of gender issues in a global context. Through interdisciplinary coursework and community engagement, the program prepares students for careers in social advocacy, education, policy analysis, and related fields that require a deep understanding of gender dynamics. Additionally, Women and Gender Studies at SFSU emphasizes experiential learning, including internships, research projects, and collaborations with local organizations, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program also fosters an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes social change. Graduates of the program often pursue further academic study or move into professional roles where they can advocate for gender equality and social justice. With dedicated faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, the program maintains a dynamic and evolving curriculum that reflects the latest scholarly developments and community needs. Overall, Women and Gender Studies at San Francisco State University aims to empower students to become informed, critical, and engaged citizens who can contribute to a more equitable society.