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
Mary-Ava Gonzalez
(she/her)
Major: Women, Gender, and Sexuality
Minor/Concentration: Psychology and Public Policy and Urban Affairs
Best Adjective to Describe You: Passionate
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
This department values connections, open conversations, and allows for a deeper of understanding of sexualities studies as a whole.
What drew you to the department?
Women Gender and sexuality studies talks about a lot more social issues that affect everyone in society and from the first class I took, this is what I admired.
What is your favorite thing about K?
I love the close bonds with students and faculty. The close-knit and kind support network has truly allowed me to succeed during my years here.
How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth?
My first year, I took classes I did not think I would be super interested in but I ended up really liking them (e.g., Philosophy).
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
My SIP is interning at the Girls Club of LA in my hometown working with children as part of a valuable learning environment.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I will continue to find opportunities that connect me to social work!