Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of General Studies in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at the University of Kansas provides students with an in-depth understanding of gender, sexuality, and their intersections with society, culture, and politics. This gender studies degree explores historical and contemporary perspectives on gender and equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills applicable across a wide range of fields.
Students in this gender studies major engage in interdisciplinary coursework, drawing from history, sociology, literature, political science, media studies, and the humanities. The curriculum emphasizes intersectional analysis, examining how race, class, nationality, ability, and other dimensions of identity shape lived experiences and systems of power. Through engagement with feminist theory, queer theory, transnational perspectives, and community-based inquiry, students develop a nuanced understanding of gender studies as a dynamic and evolving field.
Coursework in this women and gender studies program encourages students to connect theory to practice. Faculty guide students in conducting original research, analyzing cultural texts, and applying scholarly frameworks to contemporary debates. Students examine issues such as reproductive justice, labor and economic inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, global feminisms, public policy, and media representation. This interdisciplinary foundation prepares graduates to navigate complex social challenges with intellectual rigor and empathy.
In addition to on-campus study in Lawrence, KU offers an online option for the gender studies degree designed specifically for transfer students who have previously earned college credit. The online Bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies provides the same academic rigor and faculty expertise as the campus program while offering flexible course delivery. The online format is structured to support transfer students balancing academic, professional, or personal commitments, and coursework is delivered in an engaging virtual environment that fosters discussion, collaboration, and critical analysis. The online option is available only to transfer students and is not open to first-time, first-year applicants.
Whether studying on campus or completing the transfer-only online pathway, students pursuing this gender studies degree gain strong preparation in research design, critical reading, persuasive writing, and public-facing communication. Graduates leave equipped to contribute thoughtfully to conversations about equity, justice, and social change across industries and communities.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies, BA/BGSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’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.Bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the gender studies degree program will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, theories, and methodologies in gender studies and feminist scholarship.
- Analyze gender and sexuality from intersectional, transnational, and historically grounded perspectives.
- Apply interdisciplinary research methods to evaluate social issues related to identity, power, and inequality.
- Communicate effectively in written, oral, and digital formats about topics central to women gender and sexuality studie.
- Connect academic inquiry to community engagement, advocacy, or professional practice.
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies?
A gender studies degree provides students with a versatile foundation for a wide range of professional pathways. Graduates pursue careers aligned with advocacy, policy, research, education, and community leadership. Common career areas include:
- Human rights advocacy
- Social work and counseling
- Public health and reproductive justice
- Law and public policy
- Journalism and media
Professionals with expertise in women’s gender and sexuality studies jobs often work in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, healthcare systems, educational institutions, and private-sector organizations seeking inclusive workplace practices. According to Lightcast, employers increasingly value skills in research, communication, cultural competency, and policy analysis — core strengths developed in this gender studies major.
Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees in law, public health, education, counseling, social work, or graduate programs connected to women and gender studies and related interdisciplinary fields.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities to support students in achieving their academic goals. Information about tuition, scholarships, and financial assistance is available on the KU Financial Aid & Scholarships website.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the women, sexuality and gender studies degree program must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR 2.0 GPA and 21+ ACT
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable 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 Experience
Students pursuing the gender studies major engage in a collaborative academic environment that emphasizes dialogue, critical inquiry, and community connection. Faculty mentorship plays a central role in the learning experience, with opportunities to participate in research projects, independent studies, and internships aligned with career interests in women’s studies and related fields.
On campus, students may participate in student organizations, speaker series, workshops, and public events that promote advocacy and civic engagement. Campus programming often addresses timely issues in gender studies, including social justice movements, public policy debates, and cultural representation. These experiences complement classroom learning and foster leadership development.
Transfer students enrolled in the online gender studies degree experience structured virtual engagement through discussion boards, collaborative assignments, and faculty interaction. Courses are designed to maintain the same academic standards as the campus-based program while providing flexibility for working professionals and place-bound learners. Online students can connect with academic advisors and access university resources remotely, ensuring meaningful engagement with the broader academic community.
Through internships, service-learning, research, and experiential coursework, students in both modalities gain applied skills that translate into competitive preparation for women’s gender and sexuality studies jobs and graduate education.
Bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Sample Courses
Students pursuing a gender studies major at KU complete interdisciplinary coursework such as:
- Introduction to Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
- Gender, Sexuality, and the Law
- Health and Human Sexuality
- Gender and Politics
- Gender, Peace, and Conflict
Additional coursework may explore global feminisms, queer theory, feminist research methods, media and representation, and social justice movements within women and gender studies. For a full list of degree requirements and course descriptions, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are accepted year-round, with multiple start dates per year. Submit materials at least one month before your intended start.
What career opportunities are available?
Graduates can work in advocacy, education, community outreach, public policy, law, human services, and other fields addressing issues of equity and inclusion.