Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies
Learn how gender and sexuality are socially constructed and how they intersect with race, class, religion, ability, and national origin. Practice feminist and queer research skills and explore the relationship between research and activism.
About the Program
Women’s, gender, and sexuality studies (WGSS) at Mills investigates the broad diversity of women’s and LGBTQ experiences, with an emphasis on the perspectives of women of color. In small, interactive classes, you’ll gain knowledge of research methodologies, feminist and queer social movements, and theories of gender and sexuality. You can customize the WGSS major to reflect your individual interests by designing your own concentration with help from your professors. Or select from one of the following concentrations:
- Queer Studies
- Women & Religion
- Transnational Feminisms
- Women & Politics
- Gender & Cultural Politics
- Historical Perspectives on Gender & Sexuality
The women's, gender, and sexuality studies major culminates in a senior project involving original research or creative work. If you’re interested in a minor in this field, choose the women’s studies minor, the queer studies minor, or the women, leadership, and social change minor.
No matter which WGSS option you select, you’ll form close relationships with peers and professors. Professors will embolden you to express your ideas powerfully, exercise creative thinking, and hone your analytic skills. You’ll collaborate with classmates on group research projects and develop innovative ideas together. Outside the classroom, you’ll be encouraged to participate in internships and community organizing opportunities that will prepare you for a wide range of careers. View our program details for in-depth information on the major and minor.
Courses You Could Take
Sexuality & the City
Feminist & Queer Theories
Sex, Body & Gender in Early European Societies
Women in Islam
Transnational Sexualities
Race, Sexuality & the State