Women’s Studies

Women’s Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to explore the complex and multifaceted nature of gender, identity, and social justice. This program examines the historical, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of women’s experiences and the ways in which gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, ability, and other social categories. Students gain critical insights into the ways gender shapes individual identities and societal structures while developing analytical skills that are applicable across numerous fields. The curriculum includes a wide range of courses covering topics such as feminist theory, gender and power dynamics, women’s health, media representations, global gender issues, and activism. Through engaging classroom discussions, research projects, and community involvement, students are encouraged to critically analyze existing social inequalities and consider pathways toward social change. The program emphasizes both academic rigor and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in education, advocacy, public policy, social services, journalism, and beyond. Additionally, Women’s Studies at Maryland promotes an inclusive learning environment that values diversity and promotes social justice. Students have access to vibrant campus resources, participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives, and can take advantage of internships and collaborations with local organizations. Graduates of the program are equipped with the conceptual tools and critical perspectives necessary to challenge stereotypes, influence policy, and contribute positively to society. Whether pursuing further academic study or entering the workforce, students leave the Women’s Studies program prepared to engage thoughtfully with pressing societal issues related to gender and equality.

Foundation Courses (18 credits)

• WMST 200 Introduction to Women’s Studies: Women and Society or WMST 250 Introduction to Women’s Studies: Women, Art and Culture
• WMST 300 Feminist Reconceptualizations of Knowledge
• WMST 350 Feminist Pedagogy or WMST 380 Feminist Analysis of the Workplace
• WMST 400 Theories of Feminism
• WMST 488 Senior Seminar

Distributive Courses (9 credits)

Choose one course from each area. See advisor for list of approved courses:

• Arts and Literature
• Historical Perspectives
• Social and Natural Sciences

Cultural Diversity (6 credits)

Two courses chosen with approval of advisor. Courses in this category may overlap with other requirements.

Student Developed Emphasis (9 credits)

Three courses chosen with approval of advisor and ordinarily drawn from those approved for the major.

No course with a grade less than “C-” may be used to satisfy major requirements, and an overall GPA of 2.0 in the major is required for graduation

Requirements

• Nonrefundable application fee of $75
• Two letters of recommendation are required for a completed application: one from your school counselor and one from a teacher. Recommendations must be sent to us directly from the recommender.
• Official copy of your high school transcripts
• Where appropriate, include official results and certificates of completion from national secondary school examinations such as GCSE/GCE, CBSE national and regional, CXC/CSEC and WAEC. Transcripts must be sent in the native language with a certified English translation.
• The SAT or the ACT is required.
• If neither the SAT nor the ACT is available in your country, submit a written request for a waiver of this requirement with your application. Applicants who don’t submit some form of official standardized testing may be at a competitive disadvantage.
• Activities and awards list or resume
• If English is not your native language—regardless of your citizenship—you must have an official report of your scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at the address below by the appropriate application deadline. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions will consider all materials submitted in the application package to determine your level of English proficiency.

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

Scholarships

• Merit-based scholarships
• Rodler/Wood Scholarship 
• Academic Enrichment Grants for Women’s Studies Majors
• Laura Nichols Award
• National Women’s Studies Association (NWSA) Conference Awards
• Feminist Theory Workshop Awards

Women’s Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, is an interdisciplinary program designed to explore issues related to gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, and social justice. The program aims to provide students with critical perspectives on how gender identities intersect with other social categories and structures, fostering a comprehensive understanding of women's experiences and systemic inequalities across different cultures and historical periods. The curriculum includes courses in history, literature, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, among other disciplines, allowing students to examine topics such as feminist theory, gender and media, women's health, violence against women, LGBTQ+ issues, and global gender perspectives.

Students in the Women’s Studies program have opportunities to engage in research projects, internships, and community outreach programs that promote activism and social change. The program emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts and advocate for social justice initiatives. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in education, public policy, community development, advocacy organizations, healthcare, and other fields where gender analysis and social awareness are valuable.

The program also offers minors and concentrations for students pursuing related fields, and collaboration with other departments enhances interdisciplinary learning. Faculty members are experts in their areas, and the program fosters a supportive academic community dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. Overall, Women’s Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, equips students with critical analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of gender issues, empowering them to become informed advocates and leaders in promoting equality and social justice worldwide.