Women's and Gender Studies

Women’s and Gender Studies at Carleton College offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum dedicated to exploring the social, cultural, political, and historical dimensions of gender and sexuality. The program aims to deepen students’ understanding of gender identities, roles, and inequalities across different societies and historical periods, fostering critical thinking and promoting social justice. Through a combination of coursework, research opportunities, and community engagement, students examine issues such as gender oppression, feminist theory, LGBTQ+ rights, intersectionality, and the ways gender intersects with race, class, ethnicity, and other social categories. The program encourages students to critically analyze traditional narratives and to develop their own perspectives on gender dynamics in contemporary society. Students have access to a diverse range of courses taught by faculty members who are engaged in cutting-edge scholarship in fields including history, literature, sociology, anthropology, political science, and more. The major offers flexibility for students to tailor their studies to personal interests, with potential for minors and concentrations in related areas. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, community service, and research projects that complement their academic pursuits and prepare them for careers in advocacy, education, social policy, and allied fields. Women’s and Gender Studies at Carleton College is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diverse identities and experiences while promoting equity and social change. Through this program, students gain the skills, knowledge, and awareness to become thoughtful, informed contributors to a more just and equitable society.