Women's Studies (WS)

WS 3376. Introduction to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

This course explores core ideas and analytical frameworks in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, focusing on cultural contexts within the United States. Students investigate how gender and sexuality have been constructed and represented across different historical and social settings. Using interdisciplinary approaches, the course examines theoretical perspectives and research methods employed in the field. Through readings and discussion, students evaluate how these concepts intersect with race, class, and other dimensions of identity. The course emphasizes critical analysis and interpretation rather than prescriptive conclusions.

WS 3377. Gender and Sexuality in Comparative Cultural Contexts.

This course examines the intersections of gender, sex, and power across diverse cultural contexts, emphasizing comparative and historical analysis. Students explore key debates and current research within Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, focusing on how these concepts are constructed and understood in different societies. Through readings, discussion, and case studies, the course evaluates theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches used to analyze gender roles and social structures. Special attention is given to examples from societies outside the United States to develop a global perspective on gender and sexuality.

WS 4388. Independent Research in Women and Gender Studies.

This course provides an opportunity for students to conduct independent research in Women’s and Gender Studies. Working individually or collaboratively, students identify a research topic, design a study plan, and compile a bibliography for instructor review. The course emphasizes methodological rigor and theoretical analysis, supporting students in developing an analytical framework for their project. Course outcomes include a detailed research outline and a research paper demonstrating evidence-based evaluation of sources and engagement with scholarly debates in the field.

WS 5376. Representations of Women in U.S. Culture: 1800 to Present.

This course analyzes shifting representations of women in U.S. culture and other contexts from 1800 onward, drawing on sources produced by historians, writers, artists, educators, and media. Students examine scholarly interpretations of how these portrayals relate to historical developments and cultural ideologies, using comparative and interpretive methods. The course emphasizes inquiry into the relationship between representation and social change, guiding students to assess scholarly debates and evaluate evidence from multiple genres and historical periods.

WS 5377. Gender, Sex, and Society: Comparative Perspectives.

This course examines social, political, and cultural factors examined by scholars in the study of gender roles and women’s experiences in the United States and other contexts. Topics include biological and psychological research on sex differences, legal and political institutions, labor and family dynamics, and representations of gender. Students analyze theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches used in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Comparative perspectives are incorporated through case studies of societies outside the United States to support analysis of global patterns and cultural variation.

WS 5388. Independent Research in Women and Gender Studies.

This graduate course provides an opportunity for students to conduct independent research in Women’s and Gender Studies. Working individually or collaboratively, students identify a research topic, design a study plan, and compile a bibliography for instructor review. The course emphasizes methodological rigor and theoretical analysis, supporting students in developing an analytical framework for their project. Course outcomes include a detailed research outline and a research paper demonstrating evidence-based evaluation of sources and engagement with scholarly debates in the field. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.