Why Study Women, Gender, and Sexuality at K?
Learn about how gender and sexuality are socially constructed and how identity affects individuals’ lived experiences.
As a women, gender, and sexuality [WGS] student, you will explore the modern and historical issues that have affected women and queer, LGBTQ+ individuals and how these folks have responded to, rebelled against and internalized society’s assumptions. You will further come to understand how gender and sexuality intersect with other identities, such as race, nationality, religion, class, and ability. By the time you graduate, you will have a strong foundation in how the human experience is shaped by identity.
As gender and sexuality intertwine with all fields of study, the department takes an interdisciplinary approach to learning. You will be exposed to multiple perspectives and methodologies by taking courses in political science, psychology, anthropology and sociology, religion, history, and art, as well as WGS. These classes—such as Feminist Political Theories; Queer Aesthetics; and Princesses, Demonesses, and Warriors—will teach you how to critically assess how identity is constructed, enacted, and changed across time and place.
You are also encouraged to directly apply your WGS knowledge outside of the classroom through relevant internships on- and off-campus: domestic and sexual assault programs, women’s health agencies, feminist activist organizations, research libraries on women, etc.
The analytical thinking, research ability, and communication skills you will develop as a WGS student will prepare you for a variety of careers, with alumni having gone on to be social workers, counselors, policymakers, lawyers, historians, and archivists.
What can you do with a women, gender, and sexuality degree?
Below are some of the careers, employers, and graduate schools of our WGS alumni.
Careers
- Social Worker
- Program Manager
- Attorney
- Counselor/Therapist
Employers
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- AmeriCorps
- The Obama Foundation
Graduate Schools
- University of Michigan
- University of Southern California
- DePaul University
- University of Minnesota
Meet the Current Departmental Student Advisor
Rachel Harman (she/her)
Major: Women, Gender, and Sexuality
Minor/Concentration: Psychology and Public Policy & Urban Affairs
Best Adjective to Describe You: Passionate
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
The WGS community is incredibly welcoming and supportive, helping me build meaningful connections with diverse groups across campus. The department encourages connecting big ideas to everyday life and community work. The WGS department has helped me grow into someone who thinks critically and cares deeply about local and global issues.
What drew you to the department?
I was drawn to the WGS department because it incorporates such a wide spectrum of issues and focuses on an intersectional lens. This approach has helped me better understand how different systems of power connect and how to challenge them in everyday experiences.
What is your favorite thing about K?
What I love most about K is the tight-knit community that has provided an incredible space and sense of belonging. The friends I have made at K have supported me in growing into who I am today, and the faculty and staff have been there for me through every academic and personal challenge.
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
My SIP focuses on reproductive justice for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, specifically looking at how guardianship laws impact their rights. I explore how systems of power and care intersect to shape access, autonomy, and decision-making around reproductive health.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
After K, I plan to pursue a graduate certificate in nonprofit leadership and management while staying actively involved with local nonprofits and community needs. I’m especially focused on continuing to work with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, building on my current experience and passion in this area.