Institute for Women's and Gender Studies
The Institute for Women's and Gender Studies explores the making and meaning of gender across institutional and personal arenas of human interaction and endeavor. Classes offer lively intellectual exchange, social and political insights and multidisciplinary perspectives that greatly enhance a student's major field of study. The program provides powerful analytic tools for self-understanding, as well as global awareness.
Students of all majors at UMSL can pursue a personally designed undergraduate or graduate certificate and take advantage of the institute's extensive internship program. As the institute celebrates 30 years on campus, faculty and staff have seen many students pursue successful careers in social work, government, law, medicine, counseling, business, public relations, teaching and other human service fields.
The institute provides four scholarships each year and offers numerous research opportunities. As the program grows, so does the need for additional financial support. Alumni and friends in the community often make gifts to promote research about women relating to politics, criminal justice, government and social services.