Women's and Gender Studies (Advanced Major)

Women’s and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth exploration of the social, cultural, political, and historical dimensions of gender and sexuality. This interdisciplinary program is designed to cultivate critical thinking skills, foster a nuanced understanding of feminist theories, and analyze various issues related to gender identities, power structures, and social justice. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics including the history of women’s movements, gender and media, LGBTQ+ studies, race and ethnicity, disability studies, and global gender issues. The program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, encouraging students to critically examine how gender influences various facets of society and their own experiences. Through a combination of lecture courses, seminars, research projects, and community engagement, students develop the analytical tools necessary for careers in academia, advocacy, public policy, social services, or non-profit organizations. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework to specific interests within women’s and gender studies. Graduates of this advanced major will be equipped with advanced research skills, a comprehensive understanding of gender issues, and the ability to contribute effectively to efforts aimed at promoting equality and social change. The program aims to prepare students to become informed citizens and leaders committed to societal transformation, leadership in gender-related fields, and ongoing learning about issues of diversity, inclusion, and social justice.

Women’s and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth examination of issues related to gender, feminism, and social justice within diverse cultural and historical contexts. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that explores topics such as gender identity, sexuality, intersectionality, race, class, and power dynamics, equipping students with critical analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of how gender influences societal structures and individual experiences. Students enrolled in this advanced major will engage with a variety of interdisciplinary courses that combine perspectives from sociology, history, literature, psychology, and political science, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to gender studies.

The program encourages active participation through seminars, research projects, and community engagement, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to contemporary issues. Graduates of the Women’s and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) program are prepared for diverse career paths, including roles in education, social services, advocacy, public policy, research, and non-profit organizations. They will develop strong skills in critical thinking, research methodology, written and verbal communication, and cultural competency, which are highly valued across many professional fields.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as queer studies, violence against women, Indigenous feminism, global gender issues, and gender and health. The faculty comprises experts committed to social justice and inclusive scholarship, supporting students in developing their own positions and voices. By completing this advanced major, students will not only gain academic knowledge but also foster a commitment to advancing gender equity and social change in their communities and beyond.

Program Requirements for Women's and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba:

The Women's and Gender Studies (WGS) Advanced Major program provides students with an in-depth understanding of gender theories, feminist methodologies, and social issues related to gender and sexuality. To graduate with an Advanced Major, students must complete a total of 36 credit hours, including foundational courses, advanced seminars, and a capstone project or thesis. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, critical analysis, and active engagement with contemporary gender issues.

Students are typically required to take a set of core courses that introduce key concepts in women's and gender studies, such as Introduction to Women's and Gender Studies, Feminist Theories, and Research Methods in the field. In addition, they select from a diverse range of electives that cover topics such as gender and globalization, gender and health, queer theory, Indigenous feminisms, and masculinity studies. These electives allow students to tailor their academic experience according to their interests and career goals.

To fulfill the requirements, students must also participate in experiential learning opportunities, which may include internships, community engagement projects, or research assistantship positions. Such practical components are designed to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings and foster skills in advocacy, policy analysis, and community organizing.

The program may also mandate a culminating experience, such as a comprehensive research paper, a thesis, or a major project that demonstrates analytical rigor and engagement with gender issues. Students are typically advised to work closely with faculty members to develop and refine this project.

Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences related to gender studies, fostering academic growth and professional development. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in social services, non-profit organizations, education, policy analysis, advocacy, and further academic research.

In summary, the Women's and Gender Studies Advanced Major at the University of Manitoba combines coursework, experiential learning, and research components to equip students with critical thinking skills, specialized knowledge, and practical experience necessary for advancing gender equity and social justice initiatives.

The University of Manitoba offers various financial aid options for students enrolled in the Women's and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) program. Tuition fees are structured according to the university's general fee schedule for undergraduate programs, with specific rates applicable to domestic and international students. Domestic students typically benefit from lower tuition rates, and the university provides detailed fee information on their official website. Students can access financial assistance through government-sponsored financial aid programs, scholarships, bursaries, and awards designated for students in arts and social sciences disciplines. The university also encourages students to explore external funding sources such as provincial and federal scholarships, private grants, and community organization awards.

Academic advisors and the university's Financial Aid and Awards Office provide guidance on the application process and eligibility criteria for various financial supports. For student loans, Canadian citizens and permanent residents may qualify for federal and provincial loan programs, such as the Canada Student Loans Program and Manitoba Student Aid. These loans usually require a separate application process, and students must meet specific financial need and academic progress criteria to maintain eligibility.

In addition to need-based aid, the university offers merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students, which consider academic performance, leadership, and community involvement. Many of these awards are renewable based on continued academic success. Students are encouraged to submit their applications early and to consult the university’s official websites for deadlines and detailed application procedures.

Work-study programs are also available, providing part-time employment opportunities on campus to registered students, helping offset educational costs while gaining valuable work experience. Furthermore, some departments and faculty sections within the university may offer specialized funding or assistantship opportunities for advanced majors, including research assistantships related to Women's and Gender Studies.

Financial planning for students in this program also includes budgeting for other expenses such as textbooks, supplies, housing, and living costs, which vary depending on whether students live on or off campus. International students often have higher tuition fees and may have additional costs such as health insurance and visa requirements, which should be carefully considered during their planning process.

Overall, financing studies in the Women's and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba involves a combination of university-led financial aid options, external scholarships, government funding, and employment opportunities, all designed to support students throughout their academic journey and reduce financial barriers to higher education.

Women’s and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth exploration of gender, sexuality, and women’s experiences within social, cultural, political, and economic contexts. This program emphasizes critical analysis of gender issues, intersecting identities such as race, class, ethnicity, and sexuality, and the ways these factors influence individual and collective experiences. The curriculum integrates theory, research, and practice, encouraging students to examine contemporary gender debates and social justice issues, including violence against women, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender representation in media and politics.

Students engaging in the Advanced Major gain advanced research skills through writing, project development, and presentation, preparing them for careers in advocacy, public policy, education, social services, and academia. They have the opportunity to participate in interdisciplinary coursework that draws from sociology, psychology, history, political science, and cultural studies, providing a comprehensive understanding of gender dynamics across different domains. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical understanding, and inclusive perspectives necessary to contribute meaningfully to social change.

The university offers various resources and support networks for Women’s and Gender Studies students, including faculty mentorship, research centers, and student organizations dedicated to gender equity and social justice. Graduates of the Advanced Major are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills to influence policy development, engage in community activism, or pursue further academic research. The program also encourages experiential learning through community internships, service projects, and collaborations with organizations working on gender equality issues, thereby bridging theoretical insights with real-world applications. Overall, the Women’s and Gender Studies (Advanced Major) prepares students to become informed, active, and compassionate contributors to society, fostering a deeper understanding of complex gender issues and promoting equity and inclusion at local, national, and global levels.