Women’s Studies explores the ways gender impacts people’s lives as it intersects with other systems of power such as race, class, and sexuality. The program draws on interdisciplinary deepening students’ critical thinking and analytical skills. Women's studies are a relatively new field. The first women's studies department opened in 1970 in San Diego State College. The new discipline was established as a direct result of the women's movement, which shined a light on many inequities in American society. It was also a rebuke to academics who scoffed at the idea of studying women's contributions. Women's studies grew out of a lack of gender equality in higher education and society.

Today, hundreds of colleges — from small liberal arts institutions to prestigious research universities — offer women's studies degrees. Sometimes maligned as a "useless major," women's studies actually play an important role in higher education. A degree in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies prepares students for almost anything. It’s an interdisciplinary course of study that introduces students to hidden histories, explores complex social structures, confronts injustice and oppression, and hones the skills of citizens of the future. Above all, it helps students understand themselves.

Women's studies draw on history, sociology, literature, politics, and psychology. Students study feminist theory, women's history, and the intersections of gender and society. Many programs also include courses on race and gender, masculinity studies, and LGBTQ+ studies. The Women Studies Degree also calls for courses in a foreign language, statistics and computing. Three main fields are: Introduction to Feminist Theories, Understanding Research in Women’s Studies, and seminars in Women’s Studies or "capstone course." Electives are possible and include options for either an internship or a thesis, and study abroad.  

The major will:

1. expose students to interdisciplinary perspectives,

2. enable students to appreciate diversity,

3. expand international awareness,

4. equip students with critical and analytical skills,

5. prepare students for graduate and professional schools, and

6. provide background for working with women in the public and private sectors.

Many employers seek out liberal arts graduates, knowing that a liberal arts education emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills. A liberal arts degree shows an employer that you have studied a wide variety of topics and have a broader view of the world than other applicants. Earning a women's studies degree can help students build strong analytical and advocacy skills. Majors can also strengthen their critical thinking, writing, and communication abilities. Therefore, Women's studies majors go on to work in a variety of fields.

Women's studies programs play an important role in DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) efforts. As an academic discipline committed to identifying systemic oppression and promoting social equity, women's studies programs can help colleges get closer to meeting their DEI goals.