Program Overview
The University of Kansas (KU) offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) in Human Sexuality, providing an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human relationships, identities, and cultures. This program, housed within the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, examines sexuality from multiple perspectives, including sociological, psychological, historical, cultural, and political lenses. KU’s degree in human sexuality integrates theory, research, and applied learning to help students analyze how sexuality shapes and is shaped by society.
Rooted in the traditions of liberal arts inquiry, the curriculum encourages students to critically examine the social construction of sexuality, the politics of sexual rights, and the lived experiences of diverse communities. Through structured coursework and electives, students build expertise in sexuality as it intersects with race, class, gender identity, religion, media, and public policy. By pursuing a degree in human sexuality, students gain both analytical depth and practical insight into issues that affect individuals and communities locally and globally.
KU’s degree in human sexuality offers a diverse and inclusive curriculum that explores the complexities of gender, identity, and sexual expression. Drawing from the strengths of established human sexuality programs, coursework examines sexuality through historical, social, ethical, and political frameworks. Students engage foundational theory while also applying research methods to contemporary debates surrounding sexual health, representation, and human rights.
Through close faculty mentorship, students refine their research and writing skills, often culminating in advanced seminar projects that synthesize theory and evidence. Whether examining reproductive justice movements or the evolution of sexual identity categories, students in the degree in human sexuality program learn to assess how institutions, policies, and cultural narratives influence personal and collective experiences.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Human Sexuality, BA/BGSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s in Human Sexuality 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.Bachelor’s in Human Sexuality Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s human sexuality programs will be able to:
- Analyze sexuality using interdisciplinary theories and methodologies central to human sexuality studies.
- Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts related to gender, sexual identity, sexual politics, and social justice.
- Critically evaluate the impact of historical and contemporary institutions on sexual identities, communities, and rights.
- Apply qualitative and/or quantitative research approaches to issues explored within a degree in human sexuality.
- Communicate effectively about sexuality-related topics in academic, professional, and community contexts.
What Careers Can I Have With a Degree in Human Sexuality
Graduates who complete a degree in human sexuality develop strong analytical, communication, and research skills that translate across a wide range of professions. Because the curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary theory, applied research, and ethical reasoning, students are well prepared for careers in advocacy, education, healthcare, nonprofit leadership, public policy, and social services.
The knowledge gained through human sexuality studies equips graduates to work in environments where understanding identity, diversity, and institutional structures is essential. Many alumni pursue roles in:
- Community advocacy and nonprofit organizations.
- Sexual health education and public health initiatives.
- Social work and case management.
- Policy analysis and governmental agencies.
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion programming.
- Counseling support roles (with additional training or graduate study).
- Research coordination and program evaluation.
According to labor market insights from Lightcast, fields connected to social services, public health, community outreach, and diversity-focused leadership continue to demonstrate steady demand nationwide. Graduates with a degree in human sexuality are particularly well-positioned for roles that require nuanced understanding of identity, inclusion, and social policy.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are available to eligible students. For more information on tuition and financial assistance, visit Financial Aid & Scholarships.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the degree in human sexuality must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students enrolled in human sexuality studies at KU engage in experiential learning that connects academic inquiry with real-world impact.
- Internships: Gain practical experience with organizations focused on sexual health, community advocacy, public education, and human rights.
- Study Abroad: Examine sexuality and gender in international contexts through global coursework and immersion programs.
- Faculty-Led Research: Collaborate on projects addressing reproductive policy, gender identity, sexual health equity, and social movements.
Beyond the classroom, students can participate in organizations and campus initiatives that foster dialogue and inclusion. Engagement opportunities complement the academic rigor of the degree in human sexuality, helping students translate scholarship into practice.
Bachelor’s in Human Sexuality Sample Courses
Students pursuing a degree in human sexuality complete foundational and advanced coursework designed to strengthen analytical and research competencies. Sample courses include:
- Introduction to Human Sexuality Studies
- Health, Gender, and Society
- The Rhetoric of Women’s Rights
- Religious Perspectives on Selfhood and Sexuality
Additional electives allow students to deepen their expertise within human sexuality programs, exploring topics that intersect with media, law, public policy, and social movements. A full list of degree requirements and course options is available in the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Human Sexuality 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 four years.
Why choose KU’s human sexuality programs?
Students choose KU’s human sexuality programs for their rigorous scholarship, collaborative environment, and emphasis on applied learning.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from scholars whose research spans sexuality studies, feminist theory, LGBTQ+ advocacy, public policy, and social justice.
- Diverse Course Offerings: Explore topics such as LGBTQ+ communities, reproductive politics, sex education, intersectionality, and media representation. Each human sexuality class is designed to strengthen critical analysis and evidence-based reasoning.
- Research and Applied Learning: Participate in faculty-led research, community-engaged scholarship, and internships aligned with human sexuality studies.
- Career Preparation: Develop skills in communication, research design, and policy analysis that support careers in advocacy, healthcare, education, nonprofit leadership, and public service.
By completing a degree in human sexuality, students cultivate a nuanced understanding of sexuality’s role in shaping culture, institutions, and individual well-being. The curriculum emphasizes ethical reasoning, social responsibility, and informed engagement.