Program Overview
The Master of Arts in women, gender and sexuality studies at the University of Kansas offers students the opportunity to explore critical issues of inequality related to gender, sexual orientation, and race through advanced interdisciplinary scholarship. As a graduate program grounded in feminist, queer, and transnational frameworks, women, gender and sexuality studies challenges students to examine power, identity, and inequality across local and global contexts. The program prepares graduates to engage with diverse perspectives, theories, and methodologies, helping them become leaders in academic, social, and community settings. With a focus on intersectionality, this program examines how gender and sexuality intersect with race, class, nationality, disability, religion, and other social factors.
In this women, gender and sexuality studies graduate program, students will not only deepen their understanding of theoretical frameworks, but also learn how to apply this knowledge to real-world challenges. Coursework emphasizes feminist theory, feminist methodologies, and critical analysis of institutions and cultural practices. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a passion for social change.
Students seeking a masters in gender studies will find that KU’s program prioritizes close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary engagement. Faculty draw from multiple disciplines across the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, allowing students to connect scholarship in women, gender and sexuality studies with fields such as history, sociology, political science, literature, cultural studies, and beyond.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Combines insights from sociology, history, political science, cultural studies, and related disciplines to provide a well-rounded graduate education in women, gender and sexuality studies.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in advanced research on gender, sexuality, feminism, and social justice issues, supported by faculty mentorship.
- Flexibility: Tailor your studies to match your interests, with opportunities to develop a focused research agenda within women, gender and sexuality studies.
- Engaged Community: Join a supportive network of students, faculty, and alumni dedicated to advancing social equity and justice at KU and beyond.
Learn more about KU
Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies, MAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master’s in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the masters in women, gender and sexuality studies, students will:
- Analyze and interpret feminist methodologies, the history of WGSS, and theoretical concepts related to gender, sex, and sexuality, particularly as they intersect with scholarship on race, colonization, class, ability, and other key aspects of the field.
- Analyze, synthesize, and assess topics in the field of WGSS through clear, concise, and accurate written communication; show engagement with the field via oral participation in the MA qualifying exam.
- Evaluate, both theoretically and methodologically, institutional and cultural inequality.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies?
Graduates of the masters in women, gender and sexuality studies pursue a variety of career paths. Many students who complete a masters in women’s studies or related graduate degree continue to doctoral programs, while others enter professional roles in public and private sectors.
- Academia: Teaching and research positions in higher education institutions or preparation for Ph.D. programs.
- Nonprofit Sector: Advocacy and policy work for organizations focused on women’s rights, LGBTQ+ issues, reproductive justice, and social equity.
- Government: Work with local, state, or federal agencies on gender equality, civil rights, and human rights initiatives.
- Private Sector: Consulting, human resources, diversity, equity, and inclusion leadership, and organizational development roles.
According to Lightcast, employment for graduates with a degree related to a masters in gender studies is projected to grow approximately 7% over the next 10 years, with a current median compensation of about $81,000 per year nationally.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Scholarships and funding options are available for eligible students. For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
To be considered for the masters in women, gender and sexuality studies, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, including official transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose (no longer than two pages, single spaced)
- Three letters of recommendation
For more information on the application process, please visit the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
The women, gender and sexuality studies program encourages students to engage in meaningful research that contributes to the field and to public conversations about equity and justice. KU offers access to various research centers and initiatives focused on social justice, gender equality, and human rights. Students also have opportunities to present their research at national and international conferences.Master’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Sample Courses
The masters in women, gender and sexuality studies at KU offers a wide range of graduate-level courses. Some sample courses include:
- History of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Feminist Theory
- Feminist Methodologies
- Politics of Human Trafficking
- Gender, Sexuality and the Law
For a full list of courses, visit the KU catalog.
Master’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.