Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Students in our program explore the intersections of gender, race, class, and sexuality in national, transnational, and diasporic contexts. Classes examine feminist and queer theories, decolonial and children’s literatures, international institutions and government policies, and art and social activism. A common thread is focusing on people’s lived experiences of gender and sexuality, as well as inequities in access to healthcare, education, political representation, and other forms of power that are shaped by gender and sex. We offer both a major and minor in WGSS, as well as a minor in queer studies.


Graduates sitting outdoors for ceremony

Major in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Students in our program explore the intersections of gender, race, class, and sexuality; the institutional structures that have an impact on women’s and men’s lives; and the broad range of feminist theory that seeks to explain and influence women’s status in society. We offer both a major and minor in WGSS, as well as a minor in queer studies.


Student in front of an arch in Ghana

Get Real-World Experience

Students in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies can expand their skills by pursuing unique internship opportunities, engaging in individual research projects, or participating in study abroad programs and other experiential learning experiences.

Experiential Learning


Students posing next to table holding magazines

What You Can Do with a Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Degree

A WGSS major can prepare you to work in many fields or pursue further education in graduate schools or professional schools of law, medicine, teaching, or social work. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.

Explore Careers


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with an advisor, find important forms, and get your questions answered.

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies department.

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

Consortium of Oregon Diversity and Equity Scholars (CODES) Conference
Sep26
Consortium of Oregon Diversity and Equity Scholars (CODES) Conference Sep 26 Straub Hall
Department of History: Fall Get-Togeter
Oct3
Department of History: Fall Get-Togeter Oct 3 McKenzie Hall
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop)
Oct13
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop) Oct 13 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Oct15
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Oct 15 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Career Tour-Tech Edition
Oct17
Career Tour-Tech Edition Oct 17 Ford Alumni Center
2025 Oregon Postdoc Symposium
Oct17
2025 Oregon Postdoc Symposium Oct 17
The BIG10 Academia Postdoc Hiring Fair
Oct21
The BIG10 Academia Postdoc Hiring Fair Oct 21
How to: Interview (Workshop)
Oct21
How to: Interview (Workshop) Oct 21 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Your Future in Food & Beverage (Panel + Networking Night)
Oct21
Your Future in Food & Beverage (Panel + Networking Night) Oct 21 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
The BIG10 Academia Faculty Hiring Fair
Oct22
The BIG10 Academia Faculty Hiring Fair Oct 22