Undergraduate Certificate Program
Why Earn a Gender Studies Certificate?
In Gender Studies, students and faculty draw on the rich body of interdisciplinary feminist scholarship to investigate emerging theories and research on women, men, gender as they intersect with race and class. Similar to a minor, a Gender Studies Certificate supplements a student's traditional academic major by promoting critical analysis of gender roles and structures across different times and cultures. Earning a certificate not only enables students to broaden their educational experience and develop new insights into their own lives and aspirations but also facilitates employment in a wide variety of occupations.
GS classes promote the exchange of knowledge among people of different genders, classes, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and cultural conditions. Taught by committed and dynamic faculty, GS courses enjoy strong reputations for student-centered, lively, and supportive classroom experiences. Day and evening courses are offered. Gender Studies courses are open to all students, whether or not they are working toward a certificate.
What Are the Undergraduate Certificate Requirements?
Program Admission: Undergraduate certificate candidates must meet the University's general education requirements. Applicants must have a cumulative G.P.A. of at least 2.5 and must maintain a minimum 2.5 G.P.A. in WGS courses. Students must take at least 18 hours in Gender Studies courses.
9 hours must include 3 core courses:
- GS 2102 Introduction to Gender Studies
- GS 4100 Power and Practice: Introduction to Feminist and Gender Theory or another 3000-5000 level course in feminist or gender theory.
- Capstone Experience: Students must complete a final research project or practicum. The Capstone requirement may be satisfied by GS 4352 Independent Study in Gender Studies, GS 4353 Internship in Gender Studies, or by a 4000-level GS course or other 4000-level seminar where student completes a final research and writing project that focuses on gender studies.
9 hours may be cross-listed courses with student's major department or GS electives from various disciplines.
If you are interested in more information about our certificate programs, please contact Sally Ebest, Director, (314) 516-6383, or Kathleen Nigro, Program Advisor, (314) 516-5581. You will find us in 494 Lucas Hall. Candidates for undergraduate or graduate certificates are asked to register with GS after taking one or two courses. You will then be enrolled in the program and your name will be placed on our mailing list for class information and announcements of upcoming events.