Division of Arts and Humanities

Women's Studies

Minor in Women's Studies (WMNAL)

Minor Requirements

This interdisciplinary minor is designed to develop a broad understanding of the study of women and women's perspectives in all areas of academic scholarship. The primary focus is on feminist analyses of women's lives, women's social, cultural, and scientific contributions, and the structure of sex/gender systems. The interdisciplinary and inclusive nature of the field is reflected in a curriculum that includes courses cross-listed with a wide variety of departments, courses that deal with aspects of women's lives throughout history, and courses that recognize the diversities of culture, race, religion, ethnicity, age, disability, and sexual orientation. The Women's Studies minor emphasizes the development of critical and analytical skills and creative approaches to problem solving.

Women's Studies minors have a definite career advantage, and can be successful in a wide variety of career paths. Some of these include legal advocacy, counseling, journalism, public relations, management, nonprofit administration, teaching, medicine, politics, or art. In addition, many alumnae/i are currently studying in professional, law, or graduate schools.

A grade of C or better is required for all courses in the minor.

Scheduling Recommendation by Semester Standing given like (Sem: 1-2)

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MINOR: 18 credits

PRESCRIBED COURSES (3 credits)
WMNST 301(3) (Sem: 1-4)

ADDITIONAL COURSES (3 credits)
WMNST 001 GS;US;IL(3) or WMNST 003 GS;US;IL (Sem: 1-4)

SUPPORTING COURSES AND RELATED AREAS (12 credits)
Select 12 credits in Women's Studies or from the program-approved list; at least 6 credits must be at the 400-level
--3 credits from each of the following categories: (Sem: 1-8)

    a. arts or humanities
    b. natural or social sciences
    c. focusing on non-Western women or on women of color in the United States

As early as possible, students interested in the minor should contact one of the following faculty members:


Associate Professor of Spanish and Women's Studies


Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Studies and Women's Studies


Associate Professor of English and Women's Studies